Kilgores Rocks
Maryland • 17 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.3 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Kilgores Rocks
Kilgore Falls (sometimes called Falling Branch Falls) is a scenic 17-foot cascade tucked into Rocks State Park in Harford County, Maryland. The falls sit in Deer Creek Valley near Pylesville and are part of the park’s efforts to protect the distinctive King and Queen’s Seat geologic formation. Rocks State Park comprises roughly 1,060 acres spread across three non-contiguous areas near the junction of Maryland Route 24 and Maryland Route 165, and the park is managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. The hike to Kilgore Falls rewards visitors with a pleasant stretch of forested landscape and a close-up view of the cascade—an inviting spot for nature lovers and photographers. Because the falls lie within a state park (Rocks Sp), trail maintenance and visitor information are provided by the Maryland DNR, making it an accessible day-trip destination from nearby towns in Harford County.
The Setting
Kilgores Rocks sits at 397 feet within Rocks Sp, fed by the Deer Creek, in the coastal lowlands of Maryland. The falls drop 17 feet.
Height: 17 feet
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The route to Kilgore Falls is an out-and-back trail of approximately 2.4 miles round-trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The trail leads directly to the 17-foot waterfall; specific USFS trail surface/grade/class data are not applicable for this state park trail, so hikers should expect typical park singletrack and natural footing through forested terrain. Plan for a moderate effort and allow time to enjoy the falls once you arrive.
What to Expect
The falls drop a gentle 17 feet. Swimming is permitted. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Kilgores Rocks?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Kilgores Rocks?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit when the waterfall flow is strongest. Fall offers beautiful foliage, and weekdays are less crowded.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The rocks around the falls can be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear and exercise caution. Avoid climbing on the rocks near the falls. During heavy rain, the trail may become muddy and more challenging to navigate.
Current Water Conditions
45 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 99 years of record
2.05 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge DEER CREEK AT ROCKS, MD (7 km away).
Today
Moderate
49 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Moderate
51 cfs
6/10Tue
Moderate
47 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
48 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
48 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
52 cfs
5/10Sat
Moderate
52 cfs
6/10Best window: Tue — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to mid May, peaking in April.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Pylesville hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The bare-earth surface loses about 109 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The falls are listed at 17 feet; the extra comes from the ravine that continues below the base. The ground at the falls is roughly 397 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 104 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 76 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 397 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 109 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Kilgore Falls is located in the Falling Branch area of Rocks State Park in Harford County, Maryland. The trailhead can be accessed via Falling Branch Road. Visitors should follow signs to the designated parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Falling Branch parking lot, but it is limited. During peak seasons, reservations are required to secure a parking spot.
Elevation
397 feet above sea level
Coordinates
39.691224° N, -76.426722° W
Land Management
Managed by UNK
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking is limited and reservations are required during peak times. Wear sturdy shoes as the area around the falls can be slippery. Bring water and snacks, but pack out all trash to keep the area clean.
Where to Stay
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Bel Air-Aberdeen, MD
Candlewood Suites Aberdeen-Bel Air by IHG
Hilton Garden Inn Bel Air, Md
Comfort Inn & Suites Aberdeen
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Rocks State Park offers additional hiking trails and scenic overlooks, including the King and Queen Seat, a popular rock formation with panoramic views.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and other small wildlife. Visitors may also encounter frogs and fish near the water.
Cities near Kilgores Rocks
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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