Greenbrier State Park | Frederick

Information

Landmark: Greenbrier State Park
City: Frederick
Country: USA Maryland
Continent: North America

Greenbrier State Park, Frederick, USA Maryland, North America

Greenbrier State Park is a 1,200-acre public recreation area located in Boonsboro, Maryland, within Washington County.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a 42-acre lake with a sandy beach. Surrounding terrain consists of mixed deciduous forest with elevations reaching approximately 1,000 feet. Rock outcrops are present in the western sections.

Location & Access Logistics

The park is situated 10 miles west of Frederick, Maryland, accessible via Maryland Route 17. From I-70, take Exit 29 and proceed south on MD-17 for approximately 3 miles. Parking is available in designated lots throughout the park, with capacity for approximately 300 vehicles. No public transport directly serves the park entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Greenbrier State Park was established in 1958. The land was acquired by the state of Maryland for public use and recreation. Ecologically, the area is part of the Appalachian Ridge and Valley province, characterized by karst topography and forested slopes.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include swimming at the designated beach area (seasonal), boating (non-motorized and electric motors only), fishing in Greenbrier Lake, and hiking on 15 miles of trails. The park offers picnic areas with grills and tables. Winter activities may include ice skating on the lake when conditions permit.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are located near the beach and picnic areas. Shade is provided by mature trees in picnic zones and along the lake. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available within the park. No on-site food vendors are present; visitors should bring their own provisions.

Best Time to Visit

For swimming and beach activities, the optimal period is from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, during daylight hours. For hiking and general park exploration, spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer moderate temperatures and clear skies. The lake is best for fishing in early morning and late afternoon.

Facts & Legends

A specific geological feature within the park is a series of small caves, remnants of the region's limestone bedrock. Local folklore mentions a "Whispering Rock" formation on the western ridge, said to carry sounds from miles away, though its exact location is not officially marked.