Day Trips from Fredericksburg
← All Fredericksburg day tripsDay Trips from Fredericksburg: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Fredericksburg, VA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
11 waterfalls near Fredericksburg
Cedar Run Falls
Virginia 22743, USA
Just 1 hr 56 min from Fredericksburg, rated 4.9 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rose River Falls
Virginia 22743, USA
Just 1 hr 59 min from Fredericksburg, rated 4.9 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Blackwater Falls State Park
Davis, WV 26260
Just 2 hrs 59 min from Fredericksburg, rated 4.8 stars by 6,499 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Great Falls Park
McLean, VA 22102
Just 1 hr 8 min from Fredericksburg, rated 4.8 stars by 13,676 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cacapon State Park
Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Just 2 hrs 15 min from Fredericksburg, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rocks State Park
Jarrettsville, MD 21084
Just 2 hrs 25 min from Fredericksburg, rated 4.7 stars by 1,926 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cascade Falls
MD 21075, USA
Just 1 hr 44 min from Fredericksburg, rated 4.7 stars by 717 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Patapsco Valley State Park - Hollofield Area
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Just 1 hr 43 min from Fredericksburg, rated 4.6 stars by 6,740 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rocks State Park - Kilgore Falls/ Falling Branch Area
Pylesville, MD 21132
Just 2 hrs 32 min from Fredericksburg, rated 4.6 stars by 685 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cunningham Falls State Park
Thurmont, MD 21788
Just 1 hr 55 min from Fredericksburg, rated 4.6 stars by 2,006 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Gunpowder Falls State Park Hammerman Area
Middle River, MD 21220
Just 2 hrs 2 min from Fredericksburg, rated 4.5 stars by 3,545 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Fredericksburg
What are the best waterfalls near Fredericksburg, VA?
The best waterfalls near Fredericksburg range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Fredericksburg?
Some waterfalls near Fredericksburg have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Fredericksburg?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Fredericksburg are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Fredericksburg?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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