Cunningham Falls State Park — Hunting Creek Lake
Lake · Maryland
About this swimming hole
The William Houck Area of this Catoctin Mountain park centers on a 43-acre lake with sandy beaches and three designated swim zones that draw families all summer. Hikers can pair a cool dip with the short trail to the 78-foot cascading Cunningham Falls nearby. Note that swimming at the falls themselves is prohibited — the lake beach is the legal swim spot.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Depth | Roped swim areas with shallow and deeper sections |
| Best season | Memorial Day–Labor Day |
| Fees | State park entry ~$3–$5 per vehicle weekdays (resident), higher weekends and for nonresidents |
| Hours | 10 a.m.–7 p.m. in season |
| Parking | Beach parking at the William Houck Area; park can fill to capacity on summer weekends |
| Amenities | Lifeguards (seasonal), Bathhouse, Concession stand, Picnic tables, Campground, Trails |
| County | Frederick |
| Nearest town | Thurmont |
| Safety notes | Lifeguards monitor the beach Memorial Day–Labor Day. Swimming prohibited at the falls themselves. A July 2026 rabid-beaver incident closed the beach temporarily — always check the MD DNR park dashboard before visiting. |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Is there a fee to visit Cunningham Falls State Park — Hunting Creek Lake?
Reported fee info: State park entry ~$3–$5 per vehicle weekdays (resident), higher weekends and for nonresidents. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Cunningham Falls State Park — Hunting Creek Lake?
The best season is typically Memorial Day–Labor Day.
Is Cunningham Falls State Park — Hunting Creek Lake safe for swimming?
Reported safety notes: Lifeguards monitor the beach Memorial Day–Labor Day. Swimming prohibited at the falls themselves. A July 2026 rabid-beaver incident closed the beach temporarily — always check the MD DNR park dashboard before visiting.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — swim at your own risk.
⚠️ Verify before you go. Conditions, fees, reservations, and access can change — confirm details with the official link before visiting. Last verified: September 2026