The visitor center at Antietam National Battlefield is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
At Antietam National Battlefield, the entrance fee is $20 for a private vehicle (covers all passengers) for three days, $15 for a motorcycle for three days, and $10 per person for three days. Children under 16 are free. An annual pass is $35.
From Hagerstown, take I-70 East, exit 29A onto Rt. 65 South, and drive 10 miles to a poignant historic landscape marked by the Dunker Church, a testament to America’s tumultuous past.
Parking is available at the Visitor Center on Dunker Church Road, with spaces for cars, motorcycles, and smaller RVs. No overnight parking is permitted. Parking fees apply, but are included in the entrance pass.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Antietam National Battlefield, situated in the rolling hills of Washington County, Maryland, is a place where the serene landscape belies the intense history that unfolded here. On September 17, 1862, this tranquil setting was the stage for the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, as the Union and Confederate armies clashed in a frenzy of combat that would leave 23,000 soldiers killed, wounded, or missing.
The battlefield, now a national park, spans over 3,000 acres and includes the historic town of Sharpsburg, where the quiet streets and old farmhouses stand as a testament to the area’s rich past. Visitors can walk along the Sunken Road, now infamous as Bloody Lane, where fierce battles raged, or cross the bullet-scarred stone bridge known as Burnside Bridge.
The landscape shifts with the seasons; spring brings blooming wildflowers and greenery, summer warms the fields where grains and corn grow, autumn paints the trees in vibrant hues, and winter cloaks the ground in a soft layer of snow. Wildlife abounds, with deer and birds frequenting the area.
For those seeking to immerse themselves in history, ranger-led tours provide detailed insights into the battle and its significance. The Antietam National Cemetery, where over 4,700 Union soldiers are buried, is a poignant reminder of the battle’s aftermath. Nearby, the town of Sharpsburg offers quaint shops and restaurants, while the larger town of Frederick, Maryland, with its historic downtown and vibrant arts scene, is just a short drive away.
Special events, such as the annual Antietam National Battlefield Memorial Illumination, where thousands of candles are lit to honor the fallen soldiers, add a unique layer of experience for visitors. Local outfitters offer guided hikes and historical tours, ensuring that every visitor can delve deeply into the complex and compelling history of this battlefield. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of a storied landscape, Antietam National Battlefield is a destination that will leave you with a profound sense of place and memory.
- Area (mi²)
- 5.1
- Annual visitors
- 205 000
- Established year
- 1890
Top 3 Facts about Antietam National Battlefield
During the Battle of Antietam, Confederate forces utilized the improvised trench at Bloody Lane, a sunken road about 800 yards long, to hold off superior Union numbers despite being outnumbered nearly two to one, highlighting the strategic importance of terrain in the battle.
In this historic landscape, white-tailed deer roam freely, often spotted at dawn and dusk. Woodchucks, raccoons, and red foxes inhabit the fields and woods, while Pileated Woodpeckers and Red-Tailed Hawks soar overhead. The open fields are a haven for Eastern Bluebirds, Horned Larks, and Grasshopper Sparrows. Beaver sightings are rare but possible along the streams, and Gray Squirrels and Chipmunks are common in the wooded areas. This diverse habitat is home to over 170 bird species, including warblers, flycatchers, and raptors like Sharp-shinned Hawks and American Kestrels.
This historic landscape rests on a bed of limestone, fostering karst systems, springs, and seeps that feed Antietam Creek, whose waters flow through the rich oak/hickory forests of Snavely Woods. The terrain is dotted with rolling hills and farmland, creating a diverse ecosystem that supports a vibrant array of flora and fauna.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Scouting Partnerships
- Family Camping & Overnight
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a fall visit to coincide with the Anniversary Reenactment. Allow a full day or more to explore the 9-mile auto tour and key sites like the Dunker Church and Burnside Bridge. Start at the temporary visitor center, bring a map, and wear comfortable shoes for walking. Pack meals as options are limited.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for varying weather, sturdy hiking boots, and a daypack with water, snacks, and a map. For camping, bring a tent, sleeping bag, and headlamp. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, to avoid stressing them. Never feed animals, and dispose of trash properly to preserve their natural habits. Stay on designated trails to protect their habitats. Respect the environment as you would your own.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water, and check weather and fire restrictions. Follow signs and advisories. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 301-432-5124.
Seasons
In spring, mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and blooming wildflowers set the stage for historic hikes and reenactments. Witness the Burnside Bridge Hike in March or the Living History Reenactment in April, immersing yourself in Civil War history amidst vibrant spring landscapes. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a rich historical experience.
Visit in summer for the Independence Day Commemoration in July, featuring the Maryland Symphony Orchestra. Warm temperatures, around 80-90°F, and full foliage recreate the battle’s historic terrain. Cool mornings and evenings make for ideal walking tours despite potential summer crowds.
Visit in fall, with crisp temperatures in the 50s-70s, to experience the historic landscape in full foliage. Attend the Annual Memorial Illumination in December, honoring 23,000 casualties with a poignant driving tour. Cool, sunny days make for an immersive and reflective visit.
Visit in December for the Memorial Illumination, a serene winter spectacle. Temperatures range from 25°F to 45°F, with crisp, cool weather. Attend the Annual Memorial Illumination in December, honoring 23,000 casualties with a poignant driving tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Antietam National Battlefield has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the battlefield is Hagerstown, Maryland, which is approximately 10-13 miles away in Washington County. Hagerstown offers various accommodations, dining options, and activities for visitors.
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Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. They are not allowed in the visitor center, historic buildings, or the national cemetery. Owners must clean up after their dogs.
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You cannot park an RV directly at the battlefield. There is no designated RV parking, but you can park at a nearby private campground like the Hagerstown / Antietam Battlefield KOA, which accommodates RVs.
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The Battle of Antietam, fought on September 17, 1862, in Sharpsburg, Maryland, was the bloodiest single-day battle in American history and a turning point in the Civil War. Although it ended in a tactical draw, the Union’s victory allowed President Abraham Lincoln to issue the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation on September 22, 1862, transforming the war into a crusade against slavery. This also deterred France and Britain from recognizing the Confederacy, as it linked their support to supporting slavery.