Fort Frederick State Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Fort Frederick State Park is located in the state of Maryland, not West Virginia.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Fort Frederick State Park is a historic site located in Big Pool, Maryland. It was originally built in 1756 during the French and Indian War to protect the western frontier of the British colonies. Today, it is a popular destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the main reasons to visit Fort Frederick State Park is to learn about the history of the area. Visitors can tour the fort, which includes barracks, a powder magazine, and a guardhouse. There is also a museum on site that features exhibits on the fort's history.
In addition to the fort, there are a number of other attractions at the park. The C&O Canal Towpath runs through the park, making it a popular spot for hiking, biking, and fishing. There is also a playground, picnic areas, and a nature center.
Interesting facts about Fort Frederick State Park include that it was used as a prison during the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. It was also used as a hospital during the smallpox epidemic of 1777.
The best time of year to visit the park is in the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is beautiful. The park is open year-round, but some facilities may be closed during the winter months.
Overall, Fort Frederick State Park is a great destination for anyone who loves history and the outdoors. With its rich history and scenic location, it's a must-visit for anyone traveling through Maryland.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
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.
Related References
Fort Frederick State Park
McCoys Ferry - C and O Canal National Park
McCoys Ferry Campground
North Mountain Hiker Biker Campsite
North Mountain Campsite
Licking Creek Campsite