Frederick County's Claim to Presidential Fame

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Nestled within Catoctin Mountain Park in northern Frederick County, Maryland, Camp David is a little-known national historic site that is largely inaccessible to the general public. As the official country retreat for the President of the United States, Camp David has hosted world leaders and served as a private getaway for American presidents for decades.

Why it matters

Camp David's secluded location and restricted access make it one of the most mysterious and least-visited presidential sites in the country. Despite its significance as a key location for diplomacy and respite for the nation's highest office, the public has very limited opportunities to learn about or experience this historic retreat.

The details

Camp David was established in 1942 as a presidential retreat and has been used by every president since Franklin D. Roosevelt. The site features numerous cabins, recreational facilities, and secure communications infrastructure to support the president and their staff. Access to Camp David is highly restricted, with only the president, their family, and a small number of staff and guests allowed on the grounds.

• Camp David was established in 1942 during the Roosevelt administration.
• The retreat has been used by every U.S. president since its founding.