Water Access Suspended at Cunningham Falls State Park

Frederick, MD · August 7, 2026

Fog hangs low over the Catoctin ridgeline early today, making for a damp commute, but plenty is stirring across the area as the weekend arrives.

The Lead

State park officials expanded water closures at Cunningham Falls State Park in northern Frederick County following a second confirmed rabies incident involving a beaver. The Department of Natural Resources closed the Houck Day Use Area, the boat ramp, and Hunting Creek Lake to all swimming, boating, and fishing while wildlife officials investigate. A fisherman was treated after an encounter in the South Beach area on Wednesday, following a similar incident in late July. While the park’s campgrounds and hiking trails remain open, state health officials urge anyone who came into contact with wildlife near the lake to contact local health representatives. Testing confirmed the rabies virus in both animals, and water access will remain prohibited until environmental officers verify the area is clear.

Local Pulse

City Boards Seek Volunteer Members Open seats are available on municipal boards ranging from planning to public art for residents looking to serve.
Fire Cadets Celebrate Class Graduation Recruit Class 40 completes its training tonight with a ceremony at the community college's main theater.

Today's Outlook

High 91°F · Low 71°F — Drizzle (34% chance of precipitation)
- Keep an umbrella handy for intermittent morning drizzle before humid conditions build later today.

What's On Around Town

Middletown: Memory Cafe Social Middletown 50+ Community Center (101 Prospect St), 11:30 AM–1:00 PM Relaxed gathering offering supportive conversation and activities for local families.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Other Voices Theatre (244 B S Jefferson St), 6:00 PM Catch opening night of the classic musical featuring vibrant local talent.
Golden Hour Bedazzling Party The Novel Pour (328 W Patrick St), 6:00 PM–9:00 PM Craft custom accessories alongside fellow book lovers during Friday happy hour.

Spotlight & Story

High Knob Overlooks at Gambrill State Park
- Perched at 1,600 feet along the Catoctin Ridge, three stone overlooks built by Civilian Conservation Corps Camp S-57 in the 1930s offer sweeping valley views. Most hikers walk right past the hand-chiseled native stone crafted to seamlessly mimic the mountain's natural ledge.

Frederick Daily Digest — compiled from local sources as of 6 AM. For breaking updates, follow your local newsrooms.

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