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About the Catoctin Mountains & Caboose Farm

Nestled in the heart of the Catoctin Mountains, just an hour from Washington, D.C., Caboose Farm is more than just a retreat—it's a gateway to a landscape rich with history, natural beauty, and adventure.

The Story of the Catoctin Mountains

The Catoctin Mountains have long been a place of shelter, sustenance, and spiritual connection. For thousands of years, Native American tribes, including the Susquehannocks and Piscataway, traveled these ridges and valleys, following game trails and fishing in the Monocacy River. They left behind traces of their presence—arrowheads, pottery, and ancient footpaths that still whisper of their journeys. The Catoctin name itself is believed to have Native American origins, meaning "place of many deer," a testament to the region’s abundance.

With the arrival of European settlers in the 18th century, the land changed dramatically. Timber was cleared for farmland and fuel, and iron furnaces sprang up, turning the region into an industrial hub. By the early 20th century, however, overuse had left parts of the Catoctins stripped of their natural beauty. What was once a thriving ecosystem had been reduced to exhausted soil and barren hills.

Restoring the Land & The Birth of Camp David

During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a program created by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, stepped in to heal the land. Workers reforested large sections of the Catoctins, built trails, and helped establish Catoctin Mountain Park. Their efforts transformed the area into the lush, vibrant wilderness we see today—a place where nature has reclaimed its hold.

It was within this rejuvenated landscape that Camp David was born. In 1942, President Roosevelt selected a remote mountain site as a retreat from the pressures of Washington, D.C. Originally called “Shangri-La,” the camp became a place of solitude and diplomacy. Later renamed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower after his grandson, Camp David has since hosted world leaders and played a role in historic negotiations, including the Camp David Accords. Though closed to the public, its presence adds a layer of historical significance to the Catoctins, making this region not just a scenic getaway, but a setting for global history.

Catoctin Mountain Park & Cunningham Falls State Park

Today, the Catoctin Mountains remain a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with thousands of protected acres preserved for recreation. Catoctin Mountain Park, managed by the National Park Service, offers miles of scenic hiking trails, breathtaking overlooks, and glimpses into the region’s history. Just to the south, Cunningham Falls State Park is known for its stunning 78-foot waterfall, the largest in Maryland. Visitors can explore rugged trails, enjoy swimming and boating at Hunting Creek Lake, or discover the remains of the historic Catoctin Iron Furnace. Together, these parks provide a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty.

An Escape into Nature & Comfort

Caboose Farm embraces this rich history while offering a modern escape into nature. Spread across 200 acres of rolling hills, forests, and open fields, our retreat provides an experience unlike any other. Whether you're here for a corporate retreat, a wedding, or a weekend getaway, you'll find yourself surrounded by the same breathtaking views that have drawn travelers for centuries.

With 7 inviting, cozy homes, a stunning three-story event barn, and a variety of outdoor activities, Caboose Farm offers both relaxation and and the opportunity to make life long memories. Hike the nearby trails, visit historic sites, or simply unwind by our pond, where time seems to slow down.

Come experience the Catoctin Mountains—where history, nature, and hospitality come together to create something unforgettable.