Worthington Farm Monocacy
Explore historic Civil War grounds and scenic trails at Worthington Farm, part of Monocacy National Battlefield. Enjoy river views and grazing cows.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Worthington Farm Monocacy
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore historic Civil War grounds and scenic trails at Worthington Farm, part of Monocacy National Battlefield. Enjoy river views and grazing cows.
"A wonderful historic site and one of my favorite local places to walk and get some fresh air."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Brooks Hill Loop is steep & rocky. River Trail can be muddy. Wear appropriate shoes!
💧 No Restrooms On-Site
Plan accordingly! Bring water and be aware of the lack of facilities before you go.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ford Loop Trail
Tour Stop #2
An easy, scenic hike with views of the Monocacy River and grazing cows. Dog-friendly!
Worthington House
Tour Stop #2
Explore the restored Civil War-era house and discover hidden graffiti from migrant farmers.
Brooks Hill Loop Trail
Near Tour Stop #2
A more challenging, rocky, and steep trail offering a good workout and fresh air.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Brooks Hill Loop is steep & rocky. River Trail can be muddy. Wear appropriate shoes!
💧 No Restrooms On-Site
Plan accordingly! Bring water and be aware of the lack of facilities before you go.
🐄 Respect the Cows
They're friendly but not overly so. Don't expect them to run up for pets. Watch for electric fences!
🐍 Watch for Wildlife
Snakes can be present, especially when the weather is warm. Be aware of your surroundings.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Brooks Hill Loop is steep & rocky. River Trail can be muddy. Wear appropriate shoes!
💧 No Restrooms On-Site
Plan accordingly! Bring water and be aware of the lack of facilities before you go.
🐄 Respect the Cows
They're friendly but not overly so. Don't expect them to run up for pets. Watch for electric fences!
🐍 Watch for Wildlife
Snakes can be present, especially when the weather is warm. Be aware of your surroundings.
🐕 Dog-Friendly Trails
Many trails are great for dogs, like the Ford Loop. Keep them leashed and clean up after them.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Worthington Farm for its peaceful atmosphere, scenic beauty, and excellent hiking trails, particularly the dog-friendly Ford Loop. It's a beloved local spot for fresh air and a connection to history. Some note the lack of restrooms and the need for sturdy shoes on certain trails.
"Went for a hike along the brooks hill loop trail on a Saturday. It was very empty, most on the time I was the only person on the trail. Cows were grazing, weather was nice, fresh air all around. Nice easy hike for just about anyone. Watch out for the fence where the cows are - its electrified!"
Rahul Gupta
"One of my favorite local places to walk and get some fresh air. 2 different loops you can take or combine for a longer hike."
Robert Copas
"Part of Monocacy battlefield. Wonderful historic site."
Joseph Chacon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Worthington Farm is located at Tour Stop #2 within Monocacy National Battlefield. It's accessible via car, with parking available. The visitor center is at 5201 Urbana Pike, south of Frederick, MD, and can serve as a starting point for navigation.
Yes, it's well-marked as Tour Stop #2 within the Monocacy National Battlefield. Follow the signs for the battlefield and then for the specific tour stops.
Using GPS is recommended. Inputting 'Monocacy National Battlefield' or 'Worthington Farm' should guide you to the general area.
Public transport options are limited for reaching Monocacy National Battlefield and Worthington Farm directly. Driving is the most common and convenient method.
A self-guided auto tour is available, with numbered tour stops like Worthington Farm. You can also explore on foot or bike. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Monocacy National Battlefield, including Worthington Farm, generally has free entry for hiking and exploring the grounds. Special events or tours might have associated fees.
The battlefield grounds are typically open from dawn to dusk. Specific building access, like the Worthington House, may have more limited hours. It's best to check the official National Park Service website for the most current information.
Entry to Monocacy National Battlefield is generally free. However, it's always a good idea to confirm on the NPS website for any changes or special event fees.
Yes, you can visit on weekends, but expect more visitors. Weekday mornings are recommended for a quieter experience.
The park grounds are usually open from dawn to dusk. Some facilities or specific areas might have different hours, so check with the NPS.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Ford Loop Trail is a popular, easy option with river views and cows. For a more strenuous hike, try the Brooks Hill Loop, which is steep and rocky.
Yes, the Ford Loop Trail is generally suitable for families. The open fields can be fun for kids, but always supervise them closely, especially near the river or livestock.
Absolutely! Dogs are welcome on most trails at Worthington Farm, provided they are on a leash and you clean up after them.
Worthington Farm was a critical location during the Battle of Monocacy. It also served as a migrant labor camp in the mid-20th century, with historical graffiti still visible.
No, there are no restroom facilities directly at Worthington Farm. Visitors should plan accordingly and use facilities at the visitor center if needed.
📸 📸 Photography
The grazing cows, the Monocacy River, the historic Worthington House, and the rolling fields offer great photographic opportunities. Sunsets can also be beautiful here.
Yes, the open fields, river views, and historic structures provide a lovely backdrop for landscape photography, especially during golden hours.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Worthington House, including the historical graffiti left by migrant farmers.
Early morning and late afternoon (golden hours) offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the natural beauty.
Standard National Park Service rules apply. Avoid disturbing wildlife or historical structures. Drone photography may have specific regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to explore the open fields and learn about the historical significance of the Monocacy Battlefield. While there are no restrooms on-site, planning a visit around meal times and bringing snacks can make the outing more enjoyable. Ensure children are supervised, especially near the river or any livestock.
🐕 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog on a leash at all times and always clean up after them. Be aware of other hikers and the farm animals. While the cows are generally docile, it's best to maintain a safe distance. Also, be mindful of potential hazards like snakes on warmer days.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Enjoy the fresh air and the opportunity to explore a historic landscape. Be prepared for varying trail conditions, especially after rain, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking at Worthington Farm
For those seeking a more vigorous hike, the Brooks Hill Loop Trail presents a steeper, rockier challenge. This trail provides a good workout and rewarding vistas. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear, as it can be quite uneven.
Remember that the River Trail can become muddy after rainfall, so check conditions before you go. While there's limited river access, it's important to be cautious. Also, keep an eye out for wildlife, including snakes, especially during warmer months.
Historical Significance
+1Beyond its Civil War history, the Worthington Farm also holds a lesser-known but significant story as a migrant labor camp in the mid-20th century. African-American migrant farmers lived and worked on the land, leaving behind historical graffiti within the Worthington House that offers a poignant glimpse into their lives.
The Worthington House itself has undergone restoration efforts to reflect its Civil War-era appearance, making it a focal point for understanding the farm's layered history.
Visiting with Pets
It's essential to follow park regulations for pets. This includes keeping your dog on a leash at all times to ensure the safety of both your pet and the local wildlife, including the farm's cows. Remember to always clean up after your pet to maintain the cleanliness and natural beauty of the area.
While dogs are welcome, it's important to be mindful of the farm animals. The cows are generally friendly but should be observed from a respectful distance. Also, be aware of potential hazards like electrified fences and snakes, especially on more rugged trails.
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