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Parks #1 in Gaithersburg, Maryland

Seneca Creek State Park

4.7 · 2,565 reviews
A serene and expansive natural retreat.
Seneca Creek State Park, 11950 Clopper Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, United States
Interesting facts
1

The park contains the historic 19th-century Clopper family homestead and mill ruins.

2

Clopper Lake was created through the damming of Long Draught Branch.

3

The park serves as a vital corridor for migratory birds within the Piedmont Plateau ecosystem.

4

It maintains a specialized trail for visually impaired visitors near the visitor center.

5

The park's topography includes significant portions of the Seneca Creek valley, protecting local water quality.

Overview

Seneca Creek State Park encompasses over 6,300 acres along a 14-mile stretch of Seneca Creek, terminating at the Potomac River. The park features Clopper Lake, a 90-acre reservoir specifically managed for recreational fishing. Visitors access diverse terrain ranging from hardwood forests and wetlands to open fields suitable for bird watching. Hunting is permitted in designated zones during regulated Maryland seasonal windows. The park provides extensive multi-use trail systems designed for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. A dedicated disc golf course is available for public use. Boat rentals are provided seasonally at the Clopper Lake facility. Picnic areas are dispersed throughout the park, often located near the main lake and creek access points.

Photo spot

The wooden boardwalk and observation platform overlooking the marshy north end of Clopper Lake.

Insider tips

Check the state's hunting portal for seasonal zone closures before planning a hike during autumn months.

Bring polarized sunglasses to better sight fish in the shallow waters of Clopper Lake.

Check in at the visitor center first to obtain a current map, as GPS signals can be inconsistent in deeper valley sections.

What to avoid

Attempting to swim in Clopper Lake, which is strictly prohibited due to water quality and safety concerns.

Good to know

Hunting areas are closed to non-hunters during specific state-regulated seasons; boat rentals operate only from spring through early autumn.

Etiquette

Leash your pets at all times, carry out all trash to maintain wildlife safety, and remain on marked trails to prevent erosion.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-6 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings in spring or autumn to avoid heavy crowds and maximize wildlife visibility.
Address
Seneca Creek State Park, 11950 Clopper Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, United States
39.143, -77.253
Get directions
Details
Recreational Water90-acre Clopper Lake
Trail Infrastructure16.5 miles of multi-use paths

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-6 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings in spring or autumn to avoid heavy crowds and maximize wildlife visibility..

The wooden boardwalk and observation platform overlooking the marshy north end of Clopper Lake.

Close by you'll find St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, South Germantown Recreational Park, Sky Zone Trampoline Park.