Rocks State Park
State park
0.2 mi
4.7 (1936)
3318 Rocks Chrome Hill Rd, Jarrettsville, MD 21084
855-acre park featuring woodlands & large boulder formations, with fishing & tubing in Deer Creek.
Barbecue grillPicnic tablesPublic restroom
CreekMD
Rocks State Park Swimming Holes, Maryland
By Hidden Swimming Holes Team · Record updated
Background photo from a past visit, not current conditions. View photos and source links
Plan Rocks State Park swimming with Deer Creek Rapids restrictions, Kilgore Falls reservations, area-specific parking and official water-quality links.
Swimming restriction
Wading, swimming and tubing are prohibited in Deer Creek Rapids. Elsewhere, follow park instructions and current closures; permitted swimming is at your own risk with no lifeguards.
Official sources checked:
Water type
Creek
Access
Designated area only
Fee
Fees depend on the area, date and residency. Check the official park fee schedule and the Kilgore Falls reservation page; do not assume roadside access is free or permitted.
Best season
Choose a date with suitable conditions and required reservations
Nearby towns
Edgewood, Bel Air, Jarrettsville
Water body
Deer Creek
Location
Map & Directions
Nearby towns
Edgewood, Bel Air, Jarrettsville
Access location not verified
39.64097, -76.41592
Recorded coordinates have not been source-checked. Confirm the entrance and legal access before using directions.
A closer look
Photos of Rocks State Park Swimming Holes, Maryland
Photos show past visits, not current water levels or swimming conditions. Select a photo to view it larger.
Sources & checks
This is a desk-researched listing. A record update or map check does not confirm current swimming permission or water conditions.
- Swimming rules
- Official sources checked . See the rules above and check for current closures.
- Access location not verified
- The recorded location has no completed source check. Confirm the entrance, legal access, and parking before travelling.
- Record updated
- · This is a data update, not a field visit.
Found an error? Send a correction with the location and a source. How we research listings.
Choose the right part of Rocks State Park
Deer Creek in the main park and Kilgore Falls on Falling Branch are separate destinations. Decide which area you plan to visit before booking or navigating.
Deer Creek swimming restrictions
Wading, swimming and tubing are prohibited in Deer Creek Rapids. Elsewhere, follow park instructions and current closures; permitted swimming is at your own risk with no lifeguards. Read the official river-recreation guidance. Water conditions and swimming ability matter even where entry is permitted.
Kilgore Falls access
Kilgore Falls/Falling Branch requires reservations on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Check the current Maryland day-use booking system before traveling. Use the official Falling Branch page for current booking links and fees. The parking address is 1026 Falling Branch Road, Pylesville, MD 21132. A half-mile single-track trail leads to the falls; it is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. Reaching the base requires a stream crossing. There are no restrooms in this area, and the park discourages jumping from the falls.
Parking and practical planning
Park only in designated lots or authorized pull-offs. Kilgore Falls has no nearby off-site overflow parking; do not use the church or neighboring properties when its lot is full. Fees depend on the area, date and residency. Check the official park fee schedule and the Kilgore Falls reservation page; do not assume roadside access is free or permitted. Check park information and county recreational-water results before a swim. A photograph or past visit is not a current water-quality report.
Getting There
For Kilgore Falls, use 1026 Falling Branch Road, Pylesville, MD 21132. For the main park, select the specific picnic area using official park directions. The legacy map point does not identify all areas or a verified swimming entry.
Quick Navigation
Access Notes
Park only in designated lots or authorized pull-offs. Kilgore Falls has no nearby off-site overflow parking; do not use the church or neighboring properties when its lot is full. Kilgore Falls/Falling Branch requires reservations on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Check the current Maryland day-use booking system before traveling.
Plan Your Visit
Parking & Access
Confirm the entrance, parking arrangements, and legal access with the land manager. A map pin does not establish a public right of access. Follow posted routes and never block gates or driveways.
Regulations & Fees
Wading, swimming and tubing are prohibited in Deer Creek Rapids. Elsewhere, follow park instructions and current closures; permitted swimming is at your own risk with no lifeguards. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Respect private property and posted restrictions.
Seasonality & Flow
Water conditions can change quickly. This listing does not provide a current safety or water-quality assessment. Check official alerts and avoid entering water when conditions or permission are uncertain.
What to Bring
Bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet on rocks and slippery surfaces. A waterproof dry bag keeps your phone, keys, and valuables safe. Pack a quick-dry towel, sun protection, and drinking water - never drink from the natural water source.
Nearby Facilities
Nearby places from saved public map data, not necessarily facilities at the swimming spot. Confirm access, hours, fees, and amenities with the operator before you drive.
Map data retrieved 2026-06-15
King & Queen Seat at Rocks State Park
State park
0.4 mi
4.8 (590)
Unnamed Road, Jarrettsville, MD 21084
Barbecue grillPublic restroomSwings
Rocks State Park - Kilgore Falls/ Falling Branch Area
State park
3.4 mi
4.6 (694)
1026 Falling Branch Rd, Pylesville, MD 21132
2nd-highest free-falling waterfall in the state, located in Rocks State Park.
Bel Air Parking Garage
Parking garage
8.1 mi
4.4 (52)
6 S Hickory Ave, Bel Air, MD 21014
Susquehanna State Park Campground
Campground
13.6 mi
4.6 (65)
729 Craigs Corner Rd, Havre De Grace, MD 21078
Public restroomPublic showerRestroomRunning water
Bar Harbor RV Park and Marina
Campground
15.5 mi
4.4 (525)
4228 Birch Ave, Abingdon, MD 21009
Picnic tablesPublic restroomPublic showerRestroom
Skipper's Point Campground
Campground
17.7 mi
3.5 (19)
1601 Skippers Point Rd, Gunpowder, MD 21010
Public restroomRestroomTent sites
Ranger Station
Forestry office
52.5 mi
5 (3)
Ranger Station, Riverdale, MD 20737
Restroom
Live Conditions Nearby
Checking nearby USGS water conditions…
Frequently Asked Questions About Rocks State Park Swimming Holes, Maryland
Is Rocks State Park Swimming Holes, Maryland free to visit?
Reported fee information: Fees depend on the area, date and residency. Check the official park fee schedule and the Kilgore Falls reservation page; do not assume roadside access is free or permitted. Verify current pricing with the managing agency before your visit.
Is swimming allowed at Rocks State Park Swimming Holes, Maryland?
Wading, swimming and tubing are prohibited in Deer Creek Rapids. Elsewhere, follow park instructions and current closures; permitted swimming is at your own risk with no lifeguards.
What type of swimming spot is Rocks State Park Swimming Holes, Maryland?
Rocks State Park Swimming Holes, Maryland is a creek on Deer Creek located in Maryland, near Edgewood. Plan Rocks State Park swimming with Deer Creek Rapids restrictions, Kilgore Falls reservations, area-specific parking and official water-quality links.
When is the best time to visit Rocks State Park Swimming Holes, Maryland?
Seasonal planning notes: Choose a date with suitable conditions and required reservations; check the specific area's current opening times. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather. Check current conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
What facilities are available at Rocks State Park Swimming Holes, Maryland?
Reported facilities at Rocks State Park Swimming Holes, Maryland include: Kilgore Falls has no restrooms, picnic tables or grills. Check main-park facilities for the specific picnic area. Amenities can change - contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Is camping available near Rocks State Park Swimming Holes, Maryland?
Not at site, camp nearby at Susquehanna State Park
Highlights
Separate Deer Creek and Falling Branch access areas
Seasonal Kilgore Falls parking reservations
Official water-quality results available
Unique Features
Kilgore Falls on Falling Branch
Deer Creek recreation with a restricted rapids area
Location & Area Map
Safety Information
Important Safety Tips
- Wading, swimming and tubing are prohibited in Deer Creek Rapids
- Elsewhere, follow park instructions and current closures; permitted swimming is at your own risk with no lifeguards
- Do not jump from Kilgore Falls
- Check current water-quality results and conditions
Cultural & Historical Context
Historical Background
The park is located near towns with deep historical roots, including Bel Air, the county seat of Harford County. The area reflects Maryland's blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Photography Guide
Photo Opportunities
Photograph scenery from permitted trails and viewpoints without blocking access. Photos do not establish current water conditions.
Conservation & Ethics
Protect This Place
Visitors are encouraged to adhere to Leave No Trace principles to protect the delicate ecosystem. Stay on designated trails and dispose of waste properly.
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At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Choose a date with suitable conditions and required reservations; check the specific area's current opening times.
Difficulty Level
Kilgore Falls uses a half-mile single-track trail and a stream crossing to reach the base; not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. Swimming difficulty varies.
Fee
Fees depend on the area, date and residency. Check the official park fee schedule and the Kilgore Falls reservation page; do not assume roadside access is free or permitted.
Facilities
Kilgore Falls has no restrooms, picnic tables or grills. Check main-park facilities for the specific picnic area.
Activities
Swimming, Tubing
Phone
(410)557-7994
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Camping Information
Not at site, camp nearby at Susquehanna State Park
Nearby Attractions
- Susquehanna State Park - State Park
- Bel Air - Town
- Havre de Grace - Historic Site
- Liriodendron Mansion - Historic Site
- Gunpowder Falls State Park - State Park
- Jarrettsville - Town
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Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
- Do not swim where swimming is prohibited, unsafe, or not clearly allowed.
- Follow posted signs, local regulations, closures, and private-property boundaries.
- Assess conditions on site. Water flow, depth, temperature, and underwater hazards change quickly.
- Never jump or dive without personally confirming depth and underwater obstacles.
- Swim with a buddy and consider flotation for weak or non-swimmers.
- Pack out all trash; respect wildlife and fragile environments.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
J
Joshua Havens
Founder & Editor, Hidden Swimming Holes
Joshua Havens created Hidden Swimming Holes to make it easier for people to find — and safely visit — natural freshwater swimming destinations across the United States. He researches access conditions, water quality resources, and land management rules so you don't have to start from scratch. He holds a strong belief that good outdoor recreation information should be accurate, honest about its limitations, and freely available.
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