Kilgore Falls (Falling Branch)
Waterfall · Maryland
About this swimming hole
A 17-foot cascade on Falling Branch inside Rocks State Park, pouring over a wide rock ledge into a deep, cold plunge pool that locals have used as a summer swimming hole for generations. The trail in is about a mile and a half round trip through hardwood forest and across rocky stream crossings. Flow and depth swing with recent rainfall, so the pool can be a gentle curtain or a roaring drop.
Good to know
| Water type | Waterfall |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | Cold mountain creek water, refreshing even in midsummer |
| Depth | Deep enough to swim at the base of the falls |
| Best season | June–August |
| Hours | Dawn to dusk |
| Parking | Trailhead parking lot at the Falling Branch area; fills on summer weekends, arrive early |
| County | Harford |
| Nearest town | Pylesville |
| Safety notes | No lifeguard. Rocks are slippery; bacteria levels can spike after heavy rain, so avoid swimming right after storms. Leave no trace. |
Map
(approximate location)Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Kilgore Falls (Falling Branch)?
The best season is typically June–August.
Is Kilgore Falls (Falling Branch) safe for swimming?
Reported safety notes: No lifeguard. Rocks are slippery; bacteria levels can spike after heavy rain, so avoid swimming right after storms. Leave no trace.. 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