We visited here after the Cacotin Zoo (separate review) and the admission was on the honor system. We popped our dollars into the box and went to the parking lot. It is a few yards' walk uphill to the visitor's center where there are some interactive natural exhibits and a full sized stuffed black bear displayed in a glass box. Outside, there is a small aviary with examples of some owls and small hawks in it. The trail that we wanted to walk was closed that day so we only spent about a half hour in the park.
It was very quiet and peaceful at this time of year. The changing of the leaves are gorgeous. Not a lot of people in the area during this time which is fortunate if you don't want the crowds and noises. Also, limited in amenities if you require food or beverage. Restrooms however, were still open.The forested area was still very lush and green, however the falls were minimal in flow.I was only there on a day excursion, but fell compelled to return again and enjoy camping and exploring the area further.
Nice walking trails to Falls. Nice Lake w/ swimming beach, canoes, & paddle boats.Trash-Free zone. NO Trash Cans! Must take it with you.NO Alcohol!
It costs $7/ person to see the Falls. With a car of 4, that is $28 to look at the Falls. Not worth it. We just traversed The Smokies seeing much better falls all for $0 park entrance fees. Other StTe Parks charge about $5/car. Ridiculous.
The hike to the falls takes one through a lush and beautiful area. There are three trails to the falls: two from a parking lot near the lake and one from a wheelchair accessible boardwalk from the main road. We tried the more strenuous (and more beautiful) hike, which takes you up and through a series of boulders before dumping you down to the same viewing platform as the less strenuous (but enjoyable) trail. The destination is incredibly disappointing, not because the falls aren't beautiful, but rather because the "viewing platform" seems to have been built in a spot where the waterfall is as obscured from view as possible (trees in the way). The result is that one is forced to choose whether to obey the large number of park signs/warnings saying to stay on the trail and not cross the stream, or not be able to get a view of the whole reason you hiked there in the first place. We were told the view was much better from the boardwalk hike, but it is not as interesting a walk. Very poorly designed end-trail/platform by the park service in my opinion that basically is self-defeating in the end. I have this 4 stars because the hike is lovely (if disappointing) and the nearby lake is delightful for the kids.
Cunningham Falls State Park is a relaxing environment. We had a family picnic, played cards under a shade tree and watched our granddaughter climb and slide at the playground, and played Frisbee. Then we walked half a mile through a beautiful forest to the waterfall. It was a very relaxing afternoon.
The value for your entry fee is great. The lake and picnic area is beautiful and the life guards are great. We go here any chance we get and stay all day. Bring water and land toys. On the south beach there is a great green area to play soccer or catch while one takes a break from swimming.
This park is great in every season but it is great in the fall the foliage can be spectacular. There are the Falls of course, always a big draw. Hiking and a variety of activities are available. Well maintained. Just off route 15 between Frederick and Gettysburg.
The lake and beach area are so clean! It is so nice to be able to sit back and enjoy a lovely day. There is a nice play area and a grassy area for the kids to run around in when they don't want to be in the water. They have a snack bar. Shower and bathroom facilities are available as well!
We used to go there every Father's Day. Picnic and a lake - great day for all of the cousin's and all of the family. There are a couple of geocaching sites littered around the park so if you are into wandering around hunting for different surprises in the park - knock it out. Of course the highlight is climbing on the rocks at the falls - been doing this since I was a kid. If you have never been - you must get all the way to the top - where the stream feeds the falls. Great times - always!!