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National Battlefield

Antietam National Battlefield

luminaries placed by Maryland Monument with dramatic orange red clouds

The Memorial Illumination, held in December, features 23,000 candles placed by volunteers, over the north end of the battlefield. Each represents a causality from the battle.

Photo: NPS Antietam/BBaracz

About

23,000 soldiers were killed, wounded or missing after twelve hours of savage combat on September 17, 1862. The Battle of Antietam ended the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia's first invasion into the North and led Abraham Lincoln to issue the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation.

Activities

BikingRoad BikingCampingGroup CampingGuided ToursSelf-Guided Tours - WalkingSelf-Guided Tours - AutoHikingLiving HistoryHistoric Weapons DemonstrationJunior Ranger ProgramWildlife WatchingBirdwatchingPark Film
Museum Exhibits
Shopping
Bookstore and Park Store

Directions

Ten miles south of I-70 on Maryland Route 65

Get directions →

Weather

The weather is fairly mild. Summers can be very warm and humid and winters cold and snowy. We have four distinct seasons with the fall and spring being the best times to visit the battlefield.

News

Celebrate America’s Story in the National Capital Area During National Park Week, August 22-30
Aug 21, 2026

Celebrate America’s Story in the National Capital Area During National Park Week, August 22-30

The National Park Service is excited to welcome visitors to celebrate National Park Week from Saturday, August 22 through Sunday, August 30, as dozens of sites across the region mark the 2026 theme, “Celebrate America’s Story,” highlighting the 250th anniversary of American independence and recognizing our shared American heritage of national parks.

Entrance Fees

Entrance - Private Vehicle$20.00
Entrance - Per Person$10.00
Entrance - Motorcycle$15.00
Commercial Entrance - Motor Coach$100.00