Antietam National Battlefield (U.S. National Park Service)

QUICKLINKS:

The Bloodiest One Day Battle in American History

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 to Abraham Lincoln’s issuance of the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation.
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Cannon and Limber in front of the Dunker Church

Things to Do

Joining a Ranger program, driving, hiking, and biking are just a few of the ways to experience the battlefield. Start at the park visitor center which includes two films, exhibits and a museum store.
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Learn More about the Battle

The Battle of Antietam was part of what is known as the Maryland Campaign of 1862. Find out more about the people, places and events that are part of the campaign that changed America.
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What's the Latest

Check here for the latest news or events in the park or on our web site.

Civil War Grave Discovered at Antietam
Help replant the East Woods! Volunteers Needed.
New flagpole in place.
Two new trails opened in the park - The Bloody Lane Trail and the Three Farms Trail. Go to our trail page for information and maps.

Support Your Antietam

There are many ways that you can help preserve the sacrifice and serenity that is Antietam. Building a fence, becoming an Antietam Partner, donating to preserve a cannon or monument are just a few examples of how you can help preserve the battlefield for future generations.
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Write to

Antietam National Battlefield
P.O. Box 158
Sharpsburg, MD 21782

E-mail Us

Phone

Park Visitor Center
(301) 432-5124

Park Headquarters
(301) 432-7648

Fax

(301) 432-4590

Climate

Summers can be hot and humid with sudden thunderstorms possible. July and August are the hottest months with average temperatures in the 90s. Winters can be cold with average temperatures in 30s and 40s with snow possible. Average annual precipitation is about 40 inches. Spring and fall are generally more comfortable with milder temperatures. On the day of the battle, September 17, 1862, it was foggy and damp in the morning, clearing with light winds and temperatures in the 70s.