About CAMP MISTY MOUNT
Overview This historic cabin camp was completed in 1937 by the Works Progress Administration. The camp is surrounded by hardwood forests on the slopes of Catoctin Mountain Park. Learn more in our video Misty Mount: A Hidden Gem (or the audio described version)Recreation Misty Mount offers a number of nearby recreation opportunities. The trailhead to Catoctin Mountain Park's trail system at Wolf Rock is a short walk from the camp. Catoctin has over 25 miles (40 km) of trails with stunning overlooks. Wildlife watching, bouldering, rock climbing and fly fishing are popular activities along with hiking and camping. Kids and adults enjoy the camp's swimming pool, open from late May through September.Facilities These rustic American chestnut cabins can accommodate three to eight people. They have interior and exterior lighting, metal cots with vinyl mattresses, waste and recycle bins and broom. The (3) lodges and cabin 16 have a table and bench seating. The exterior of each cabin site has a picnic table, and fire ring/grill. Firewood is available in woodsheds located in the lower loop and near the host cabin. Centrally located comfort stations include hot showers, flush toilets and sinks. Lower loop has the women's facilities, middle loop has the men's facility, and the upper loop has both men's and women's facilities. Three dishwashing stations are located throughout the camp. Water from the dishwashing stations is potable. The swimming pool is available late May through early September. A dining hall and commercial kitchen are available for group rental only. In order to reserve this facility groups must reserve at least 8 cabins. The dining hall/ kitchen facility does not have restrooms or parking. Camp Misty Mount is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Questions about the facility should be directed to the Camp Manager by email to CATO_Camp_Manager@nps.gov or by calling 1-301-271-3140.Natural Features Camp Misty Mount is surrounded by Eastern deciduous
How to Get There
The street address for GPS use is 14799 Park Central Road, Thurmont, MD.From Washington DC: take the George Washington Memorial Parkway north to I-495 onto I-270 north 27 miles (43.5 km) to Frederick, MD. Take Route 15 for 17 miles (27 km) north to Thurmont, MD. Take Route 77 West, the exit sign is marked Catoctin Mountain Park. Travel approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) west on Route 77 and turn right onto Park Central Road. Pass the Visitor Center and continue 7/10 of a mile (1 km) and turn left into Camp Misty Mount.From Gettysburg, PA: take Route 15 South. In Thurmont, MD, exit onto Route 77 West (the exit sign says Catoctin Mountain Park). Travel approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) west on Route 77 and turn right onto Park Central Road. Pass the Visitor Center and continue 7/10 of a mile (1 km) and turn left into Camp Misty Mount.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to CAMP MISTY MOUNT
Heading to CAMP MISTY MOUNT? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for CAMP MISTY MOUNT?
No central reservation system listed for CAMP MISTY MOUNT. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233241) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to CAMP MISTY MOUNT?
The street address for GPS use is 14799 Park Central Road, Thurmont, MD.From Washington DC: take the George Washington Memorial Parkway north to I-495 onto I-270 north 27 miles (43.5 km) to Frederick, MD. Take Route 15 for 17 miles (27 km) north to Thurmont, MD. Take Route 77 West, the exit sign is marked Catoctin Mountain Park. Travel approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) west on Route 77 and turn right…
How do I contact CAMP MISTY MOUNT?
You can reach the park at phone: 301-271-3140 or email: Cato_Misty_Mount@nps.gov.
References & Official Resources
