Maryland Geological Survey

Maryland's Geologic Features

Kilgore Falls, Harford County

contact: Dale Shelton (dshelton@mgs.md.gov)

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Maryland's second highest free-falling waterfall is located on the Falling Branch of Deer Creek in northern Harford County. The falls were well known to local native Americans and settlers, but in recent times the area was relatively unknown because the land was privately owned. Through the work of citizens groups, businesses, schools and government agencies the Falling Branch Area was added to Rocks State Park in 1993 and open to the public.

Falling Branch passes through a steep gorge known as Kilgore Rocks, where the falls have developed in relatively erosion-resistant Prettyboy schist. This formation was previously known as the upper pelitic schist of the Wissahickon formation. The falls are variously named by local residents Falling Creek Falls, Falling Branch Falls and Kilgore Falls.

For more information follow these links:

• FactSheet 9: Maryland's Five Highest Waterfalls and Mountains
• Rocks State Park
• Falling Branch Falls, by John T. Marck
• Harford County Hiking - Kilgore Falls and Vicinity, by Peter H. Anderson