Friends of
Cunningham Falls and
Gambrill State Parks
Mission Statement
To preserve, promote, and enhance the natural, historical, and recreational resources of Maryland’s Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Parks by supporting educational programs, community engagement, and park improvements through charitable contributions, volunteerism, and in-kind donations.
Welcome
to our organization
The Friends of Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Parks, Inc. is a dedicated support group for both Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Parks.
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Our members include local residents, business representatives, campers, and people like you - individuals who care deeply about these parks and want to play a role in protecting and enhancing their future. The parks rely on this strong base of volunteers to help maintain the high level of service that the community has come to expect.
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Our mission is to generate the financial and volunteer support needed to supplement the parks’ budgets. Every dollar raised goes directly into improving the parks.
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Your support can be seen in projects like the renovated Nature Center at the High Rock Scenic Area of Gambrill State Park, tree plantings, new safety gear, updated vehicles and gators, new rescue/patrol boats, motors and trailers and heavy equipment.
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We also proudly support, and host cherished events such as the Annual Maple Syrup Festival, the Friends 10K, 5K, Race and Fun Run/Walk and Tea in the Tea Room.
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Become a Friend!
Join us in making a lasting impact. Your involvement helps ensure that Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Parks remain treasured destinations for generations to come.
Our Officers - 2025
Carol Abraham Burger, President
Jim Burger, Vice President
Treasurer - Alan Rogers / Erin Gambrill, Secretary / James Baker, Past President
"Directors at Large"
Kathy Byrne / Rick Canter / Emma Ford / Gail Fowler / Matthew Lindbergdashwork / Mary Miller / Christine Patterson / Chris Trone
A Message from the Park Manager
Sarah Rodriguez, Park Manager
Cunningham Falls & Gambrill State Parks
“Volunteers are a critical aspect of the daily operation of both Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Parks.”
Whether you're interested in serving as a camp host, joining a trail maintenance crew, helping out at special events, or supporting our mission as a member of the Friends of Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Parks, there is a role perfectly suited to your time and talents.
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You may even bring a skill we didn’t know we needed -
until you took the initiative to share it!
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I invite you to contact our Lead Ranger, Claudia Padilla, by email at claudia.padilla@maryland.gov to request an inquiry form and learn more about opportunities to serve your natural resources, your neighbors, and yourselves.
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Your contribution is priceless.
Meet Our Sponsors
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News
Photo (L-R): Maryland Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, Friends President James Baker, Park Manager Mark Spurrier, Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater, City of Thurmont Mayor John Kinnaird
On March 16, 2024, the Friends of Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Parks were presented with a State of Maryland Governor's Citation.
This was a high honor for the Friends and an exciting opportunity to meet and socialize with our elected officials.
