Carderock Recreation Area Pavilion

The picnic pavilion at the Carderock Recreation Area is a large covered pavilion, open on three sides, that accommodates a maximum of 200 people. It sits between parking lots 1 and 2, and convenient, ample parking is available across four lots. Both flush toilet facilities are closed for emergency repair; portable toilets are located in parking lots 2 and 4. This location is unstaffed. There are picnic tables in and around the pavilion and electricity (four 110-volt outlets) available for your use. Two large grills stand outside the pavilion and a large fireplace within it, and water is nearby. There is a softball field and an area for volleyball or relay games, with horseshoe pits near the front of the pavilion, all for your use during your event. You must provide the sports equipment, though poles are provided for volleyball or badminton. The most popular activity for pavilion attendees is hiking the three sections (A, B and C) of the Billy Goat Trail, one of the most popular and challenging rock hikes in the east. There are also many woodland trails for beginners and experts alike. Fishing is a popular pastime in both the C&O Canal and the Potomac River; be sure to acquire a Maryland fishing license for those age 16 or older, as Virginia licenses are approved for fishing in the Potomac only. Carderock Pavilion is just south of the Great Falls of the Potomac and Mather Gorge. These two stunning features provide an excellent example of local geology while showing the sheer force and power of nature. The Great Falls Overlook and Great Falls Tavern are a few miles upriver.