The Hidden Maryland Park with Scenic Views and a Stunning Waterfall
Almost 10 million people live in the greater Baltimore and Washington, DC areas, but despite the dense population, there are some beautiful natural areas nearby. One of them is Rocks State Park, located in Harford County, less than a one-hour drive from Baltimore and about two hours from DC. Rocks State Park presents excellent opportunities for landscape photographers living in or visiting the area.
The park’s two standout attractions—Kilgore Falls and the King and Queen Seat—are prime spots for nature photography. The tranquil setting will make you feel far removed from major cities, even though you’re just a short drive away.
Kilgore Falls
Kilgore Falls, a picturesque 17-foot waterfall in dense woodland, is one of Maryland’s hidden gems. Its gentle cascade of water over rugged rocks creates a beautiful scene that draws photographers and nature lovers.
While Kilgore Falls is part of Rocks State Park, it’s not connected to the main section of the park. This section of the park is called the Falling Branch Area, and it’s about 4-5 miles away from the main part of the park.
To reach Kilgore Falls, you can park in the designated parking lot along Falling Branch Road in Pylesville. An easy half-mile hike leads to Kilgore Falls.
You’ll need to cross the creek to get the best view of the falls. You can cross downstream of the falls by walking on some rocks that are usually sticking out above the water, or you can continue uphill on the trail and cross upstream of the falls. In the summer, you can simply take off your shoes and walk through the creek. Regardless of where you cross, be careful as the rocks can be slippery.
For photographers, timing is key when visiting Kilgore Falls. Early spring brings high water flow, perfect for capturing powerful cascades. In contrast, autumn transforms the landscape with vibrant colors surrounding the falls, but the flow of water may be weak.
This is a popular spot, so the time of your visit will significantly impact your experience photographing Kilgore Falls. The parking lot often fills up in the summer, especially on weekends. Visiting on a weekday during fall, winter, or spring will give you the best opportunity for solitude. I’ve visited several times and usually see no more than one or two other people if I arrive in the morning on a spring or fall weekday.
There are several different angles or vantage points, so you could spend a lot of time here. The rocks across from the waterfall provide a nice view. You can also get close or set up slightly downstream. The water is shallow downstream, so you can also set up a tripod in the water for a different angle.
While it’s not the tallest or most powerful waterfall, Kilgore Falls is quite picturesque. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.
King and Queen Seat
The King and Queen Seat is another photographic jewel within Rocks State Park. This majestic rock formation provides panoramic views over the forested valley and Deer Creek. The site’s rich history adds an element of intrigue, having served as a ceremonial gathering place for Native American tribes.
The King and Queen Seat is located near the Rock Ridge Picnic Area. You can park in the lot and walk a short distance (about 0.25 miles) and follow signs to the King and Queen Seat.
While the King and Queen Seat offers breathtaking views, caution is essential. It’s a rather narrow ledge with a straight drop on either side. You can photograph the King and Queen Seat from a safe location on the rocks, but be careful if you go out near the edge.
Practical Photography Tips for Rocks State Park
When photographing Rocks State Park, be sure to bring the right gear. Bring a range of lenses. Use a wide-angle to get up close to Kilgore Falls and for capturing the full beauty of the area surrounding the King and Queen Seat. A telephoto lens will also be helpful for photographing details of the waterfall or photographing it from further downstream.
A polarizing filter can help manage reflections and saturate colors, while a sturdy tripod is necessary for long exposures.
Final Thoughts
Rocks State Park is a landscape photographer’s dream, offering a blend of natural beauty, accessibility, and photographic diversity. For those seeking inspiration near urban areas, Kilgore Falls and the King and Queen Seat make this a must-visit park.
