President Franklin D. Roosevelt created programs to give people a chance to rebuild their lives from the Great Depression. The Works Progress Administration and the Civilian Conservation Corps gave this land a second opportunity and through re-growth, a new role as a recreation area.
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
Free entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- HoursHiking trails and parking areas are open year round, dawn to dusk, but may close as a result of security or safety concerns. Consult the park's website for updates: http://www.nps.gov/cato/index.htm. The visitor center,
- Source National Park Service ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.nps.gov ↗
- Contact 3016639388 · CATO_superintendent@nps.gov
To reach the visitor center from the east, follow US Route 15 to MD Route 77 and go west about 3 miles. The visitor center is on the right side of the road. From the west, take I 70 to MD 66 at exit 35. Turn left onto MD 66 north and travel about 5 miles, passing through the roundabout. Turn right o
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Catoctin Mountain Park — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at Catoctin Mountain Park?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Can you fish at Catoctin Mountain Park?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you camp at Catoctin Mountain Park?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Adirondack Access Trails, Gateway Trail, TR-1 Chimney Rock/Wolf Rock Trail, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Depends Do you need a permit to climb?
Rock climbing is available here; some routes or areas may need a permit. Check current climbing regulations first.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Usually only leashed and in developed areas, campgrounds, and paved paths — not on most trails or in buildings. Pet rules vary by park, so check first.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Park Service land.
Yes What are the hours?
Hiking trails and parking areas are open year round, dawn to dusk, but may close as a result of security or safety concerns. Consult the park's website for updates: http://www.nps.gov/cato/index.htm. The visitor center,
Nearby sites
NPS Photo National Park Service Eisenhower National Historic Site
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
NPS Photo National Park Service Gettysburg National Military Park
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
