Washington Monument State Park

Washington Monument State Park is a 147-acre state park located where Frederick and Washington Counties meet. The park contains stone monuments, a museum building, a children's play area, and multiple hiking trails, some of which connect to the Appalachian Trail.

In 1827, around 500 residents of Boonsboro built a stone monument on South Mountain to honor George Washington. The structure later endured the Civil War, though it was damaged and required repairs to survive to the present day.

The park displays information about the region's connection to George Washington through panels placed along walking routes. These exhibits tell stories of how this area became important in early American history.

The grounds are easy to explore with marked paths that work for most visitors. Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to hike the longer trails along the nearby mountain routes.

During the Civil War, the monument was repurposed as an observation post for military signaling, a detail many visitors miss. This practical adaptation reveals how structures were put to unexpected use during wartime.

Location: Frederick County

Location: Washington County

Inception: 1934

Website: https://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/western/washington.aspx

GPS coordinates: 39.50040,-77.62320

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:49