Ashgrove Historic Site

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Parks

Maryland

Nearby: Wolf Trap National Park For The Performing Arts Wolf Trails Park

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ashgrove Historic Site is located in the state of Maryland and is a historic farmstead that dates back to the 18th century.

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Summary

It was originally owned by the prominent Warfield family and is now operated by the Howard County government. There are several reasons to visit this site, including the opportunity to explore a well-preserved piece of Maryland history, learn about the Warfield family and their role in the community, and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.

One of the main points of interest at Ashgrove is the Warfield family home, which has been restored to its original appearance and is open for tours. Visitors can see the original furnishings and decorations that the family used, as well as learn about their daily lives and the history of the area. In addition to the house, there are also several outbuildings on the property, including a smokehouse and a springhouse.

Another interesting feature of Ashgrove is the beautiful natural surroundings. The property includes several acres of farmland, as well as wooded areas and a stream. Visitors can take a walk around the property and enjoy the peaceful scenery, or take part in one of the many events and programs that are offered throughout the year.

Some interesting facts about Ashgrove include that it was once used as a stop on the Underground Railroad, and that the Warfield family were prominent supporters of the Confederacy during the Civil War. The property has also been used in several Hollywood films, including the 1999 movie "The Blair Witch Project."

The best time of year to visit Ashgrove is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the property is in full bloom. However, there are events and programs offered throughout the year, so visitors can enjoy the site no matter what the season.

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.

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