Fort Frederick State Park

Frommer's Review

Fort Frederick's role in Civil War history was to post Union troops, though it faced Confederate raiders in the only fighting the fort saw in December 1861. During the French and Indian War, it served as an important supply base for English campaigns; during the Revolutionary War, it was as a refuge for settlers and a prison for Hessian and British soldiers.

If you're driving through the area, the 1756 stone fort is worth a look. Daily in summer and on weekends in spring and fall, living-history reenactors show visitors about frontier life. The park also has campsites for $15 a night (tel. 888/432-2267 for group reservations only); two hiking trails through woods and wetlands; and boat rentals for Big Pool. Nearby is the Western Maryland Rail Trail, a 20-mile path that follows an old train line. The Rails to Trails Conservancy has chosen this as one of the top 12 trails in the U.S. for viewing fall foliage.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.