Friends of
Cunningham Falls and
Gambrill State Parks
MISSION STATEMENT
To support and enhance the programs and recreational offerings
of Maryland's Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Parks
through charitable contributions and in-kind donations.
Meet Our Sponsors
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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 - 2026
Carol Abraham Burger, President
Jim Burger, Vice President
Christine Patterson, Secretary / Alan Rogers, Treasurer
"Directors at Large"
Kathy Byrne / Emma Ford / Gail Fowler /
Stuart Frazier / Mary Miller / Laura 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.
Latest News
Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Parks
become a camp host
Requirements:
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20 hours/week per volunteer
One month minimum commitment
Must have own RV /camper, no tents
18 years or older
Must pass background check
Position requires bending, stooping, and lifting up to 40 lbs.
Customer service experience
Availability Friday-Sunday
We still have vacancy and are still seeking camp hosts for May, July (Houck), September, October (Houck and Manor)
To obtain an application - Contact:
Friends of CFGSPs Continue Sponsorship of Library Park Pass Program
The Board of Directors of the Friends of Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Parks, Inc. has unanimously voted to continue sponsoring the Frederick County Public Libraries Park Pass Program for another year.
This innovative partnership — developed by Deb Spurrier, Emmitsburg Branch Manager, FCPL and Mark Spurrier, South Central Regional Manager, Maryland Park Service — allows Frederick County residents to check out a Maryland State Park pass (including via the Bookmobile) for free entry to any Maryland State Park for up to one week.
The 6- and 8-month impact reports demonstrated tremendous success, expanding equitable access to Maryland’s natural resources and connecting more families to the outdoors.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Deb and Mark for their vision and leadership in creating this program. We also thank Park Manager Sarah Rodriguez and her team at Cunningham Falls State Park for their partnership and operational support in helping make this initiative possible.
Together, this collaboration between the Library, the Park, and the Friends ensures that Maryland’s State Parks remain welcoming and accessible to all.
