History
From Mountain Retreat to Community Resource
Much like the stream that flows through its property, ThorpeWood has taken many directions over the years. Its story began in the 1970s, when lawyer and philanthropist, Merle Thorpe, purchased 23-acres in the Catoctin Mountains as a quiet retreat – a place to slow down and reconnect with the natural world. In 1995, Merle’s stepson, Sam Castleman, moved to the property and began developing the nature-based programs that would shape ThorpeWood’s identity and purpose. What started as a personal mountain retreat gradually became something more: a place where children, families, and groups could explore, reflect, build confidence, and experience joy outdoors.
From those early beginnings, the ThorpeWood property grew into 156-acres of forests, meadows, wetlands, farm fields, and trails – each space intentionally tended so it could welcome our community into meaningful experiences outdoors. The land became a partner in the work: a place to explore, reflect, build confidence, and experience joy.
In 2024, ThorpeWood Inc. became an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, clarifying its identity as a mission-driven organization dedicated to reconnecting humans and nature.
Programs That Shaped Our Purpose
Over the decades, ThorpeWood has served thousands of participants from programs such as Frederick County Head Start, Camp Jamie, Kids Like Us, and Frederick County Public Schools. These longstanding partnerships helped establish ThorpeWood as a steady, reliable resource for nature-based learning, emotional support, and community connection.
Environmental stewardship has always been central to our approach. Sustainable design features in our lodge, barn, and other buildings; careful land management practices; and designated acreage supporting American chestnut restoration (our orchard is the oldest and largest hybrid orchard in the state) reflect ThorpeWood’s long-standing ethic of caring for both people and place.
Rooted in Purpose, Growing Forward
Today, ThorpeWood remains rooted in its original purpose: offering a safe, inspiring, and accessible place where people of all ages can experience the restorative power of nature.
