Point of Rocks

The area along the Potomac River that would later include Point of Rocks, Maryland was first mapped by English explorers in 1712.  At that time it was home to the Conoy Indians.  By declaration of Lord Baltimore, western Maryland was opened to expansion in 1732.  Point of Rocks was one of a number of communities formed shortly thereafter.  It is believed that the town was named for an outcropping of rocks that extended off the side of the mountain over the Potomac River.  This rock formation was destroyed when the side of the mountain was blasted to make way for the railroad.  The towns landmark Train Station was constructed in 1871, with a second wing added in 1875.  Today, nestled at the foot of the Catoctin Mountains on the shore of the Potomac River, Point of Rocks is a scenic country town on the Maryland-Virginia border.

In addition to fishing and boating on the river, the C&O Canal tow-path offers a beautiful setting for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping. Just a few of the many nearby sightseeing opportunities include the Brunswick Railroad Museum, the Washington Monument State Park (where you can see the original Washington Monument), and such Civil War sites as West Virginias Harpers Ferry and Marylands Antietam Battlefield. Gettysburg, PA, Washington DC, and Baltimore MD all provide ideal day-trip opportunities.

While offering the charm of a small rural community, Point of Rocks also provides the convenience of the city being situated midway between Frederick, MD (12 miles to the east) and Leesburg, VA (12 miles to the west).  The towns historic railroad station is still utilized by the MARC transit system, making Point of Rocks convenient to large job centers like Rockville, MD and Washington DC.  A new subdivision, Canal Run, is presently under construction and will provide close to 350 new homes, a new community center, and more bike/jogging paths.