The Patapsco Valley is one of Maryland’s largest state parks, full of enchanting natural splendor and cut through by a river that runs almost 40 miles through the Old Line State to the Chesapeake Bay. It should come as no surprise, then, that this park is home to some incredible scenic spots to catch the fall foliage. But if you’re looking for one of Maryland’s best ways to take in the autumn leaves, look no further than the Hollofield Camp Area. This part of the Patapsco Valley is surprisingly secluded, and as you wander down the trail into the valley you’ll come across some of the most stunning overlooks you could hope to find when seeking out the colors of the season.

The Hollofield Campground is a part of the Patapsco Valley State Park that is directly off Route 40. There are a few stonework shelters available for rent which are perfect for a family cookout.
Hugh Taylor, Contributed Photo
The camping area is close to the Union Dam trailhead. The trail takes you straight down the valley, where you’ll catch some beautiful glimpses of the river winding through the trees.
Hugh Taylor, Contributed Photo
Wandering along the trail you’ll come to several places to stop and sit on the riverbanks. Even early in the autumn, the falling leaves start to line the banks…
Hugh Taylor, Contributed Photo

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…And come the later season the canopy of the woods will catch fire with the colorful transformations. You’ll find all kinds of streams reflecting the burnished orange, lighting the whole valley up.
Matthew Beziat/Flickr
I’m always struck by the narrow rocky path that takes you beneath the Route 40 bridge. It feels like walking along an ancient path in my favorite fantasy novel.
Hugh Taylor, Contributed Photo
All through the valley you can find little waterfalls created by recent rainfall. They run through the trail loop, catching the red and gold leaves in the streams they leave behind.
dKi-photography/iStock Collection via Getty Images
After looping back through the valley, the Hollofield area is a fantastic place to settle by the fire for some warm mulled cider and a spooky story or two! There are 73 campsites in the Hollofield area to take advantage of.
Margia Ahmed/Google Reviews

Be sure to check the Hollofield Camp Area’s website to reserve your spot – they can fill up quickly when such natural beauty is ready to be had! Will you be taking a hike in the Patapsco Valley this autumn? If so, head to Backcountry to get outfitted with all the hiking and camping gear you need.

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Hollofield Campground, Ellicott City, MD 21043, USA