Rocks State Park features 855 acres of rocky forest land nestled in rural northern Harford County. Primary attractions at Rocks include the King and Queen Seat and Kilgore Falls. The main section of the park includes three picnic areas, 3.5-miles of hiking trails, and access to Deer Creek, which is ideal for fishing, wading and tubing. The park’s two satellite properties, Falling Branch (home to Kilgore Falls) and Hidden Valley, are a short drive from the main park.
Trails and Hiking
Hikers and pets on a leash are welcome on the park’s 3.5 miles of trails. Trails in the main part of the park connect various points of interest and the picnic areas. Most of the park’s trails are steep and rocky, so please plan ahead and wear appropriate footwear.
Parking is only permitted in parking lots and authorized pull-offs.
Picnicking and Pavilions
Rocks features three developed picnic areas: Hills Grove, Wilson's and Rock Ridge. These areas include tables, grills, restroom facilities and playground equipment. The Hills Grove and Wilson's Areas are handicapped accessible. Pets are permitted in any of the picnic areas. Horses are prohibited inside the picnic areas.
Picnic areas are open 9 a.m. to sunset from March to October, and 10 a.m. to sunset from November to February. There is a service charge ($3/Maryland resident, $5 out-of-state on weekends and summer holidays; and $3/Maryland vehicle, $5/out-of-state vehicle on weekdays) to enter the picnic areas. Park Passport holders, Universal Disability Pass holders, seniors (with a Golden Age Pass), and children in car seats are free.
Each picnic area has a pavilion with lights (except Wilsons), electric outlets, a large barbecue pit and picnic tables. Pavilions may be used by permit only for various activities such as weddings, reunions and company picnics. Each pavilion will accommodate approximately 120 to 150 people.
Fishing on Deer Creek
Trout are stocked in the spring and fall on this scenic creek that meanders through woodland, hills, valleys and farmland. Look to the Maryland Freshwater Fishing guide for more information on regulations.
A Maryland Non-Tidal Fishing License and a trout stamp are required for anyone 16 years-of-age or older.
Bow Hunting Only
Rocks State Park offers deer bow-hunting only.
Hunting at Rocks State Park is permitted Monday through Saturday during the designated hunting season. Hunters may enter the hunting area half an hour before legal shooting time (legal shooting time is half an hour before sunrise). Hunters must be out of the hunting area one hour after legal shooting time. Legal shooting time ends half an hour after sunset. All hunters must enter and leave from the hunter parking areas and sign in and out on the hunter bulletin board.