Garrett County is home to many great state parks and are always worth a trip when visiting Deep Creek Lake. Find the hidden beauty in the many hiking/biking trails, swimming areas, fishing hotspots, and picnic areas.
State Parks near Deep Creek Lake
Deep Creek Lake State Park
Located directly across the lake from Will O' The Wisp, Deep Creek Lake State Park is a great spot for a picnic with family and friends. The park offers many different outdoor activities including hiking/biking trails, fishing areas, swimming, or exploring animals native to Western Maryland at the Discovery Center. It is definitely a family favorite for any vacationer visiting the area. The day-use area includes two sandy beaches, picnic areas, and fishing areas, and you can get there by either car or boat! If you're looking for more of an outdoor adventure, then you can explore the miles and miles of trails spanning the park over the mountain. The trails vary in difficulty but are great for all skill levels in hiking, mountain biking, or even snowshoeing. The Discovery Center at the State Park is also a great place to take the kids. Here, you can view educational exhibits from the natural resources of Western Maryland including aquatic animals from the lake and surrounding rivers. You can even see birds of prey located in the aviary next to the Discovery Center!
Swallow Falls State Park
Swallow Falls State Park captures all of the beauty of the outdoors and is a must see when visiting the Deep Creek area! Located just 18 minutes from Will O' The Wisp, you will find this perfect oasis. It is a destination that is popular among both locals and visitors. Take a short hike along the Youghiogheny River to view Maryland's highest free-falling waterfall. This waterfall, called Muddy Creek Falls, is a 53-foot waterfall that showcases its beauty no matter what the season. There are many other smaller waterfalls along this hike as well that definitely make it worth the hike. In the summer, pack a bag and go for a swim or picnic along the shore with friends.
New Germany State Park
New Germany State Park is the ultimate quiet retreat that many visitors often call a "best kept secret." Take a 23 minute drive from Will O' The Wisp out to New Germany and discover a whole new world to explore. Once there, you will find full forests with ten miles of multi-use trails throughout the park. There is also a small lake that is a great fishing spot. Many locals like to stop by New Germany for a day full of fishing. You can also swim in the lake or go paddling. The lake also has a lake house with showers, snack bar, and picnic tables, making it easy to spend the whole day here! If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle, then stopping by New Germany State Park is just what you need!
Herrington Manor State Park
Located near Swallow Falls State Park, Herrington Manor State Park is a 19 minute drive from Will O' The Wisp. Like the other state parks, Herrington Manor also features a lake and many activities for you and your family to enjoy. On the 53-acre lake, you can enjoy swimming, kayaking, canoeing, or spending your time at a picnic near the water. There are often interpretive events held at Herrington Manor in the summer, and a popular "apple butter boil" in the fall. Herrington Manor State Park is also popular in the winter because you can rent cross country skis and snowshoes!
For a full list of State Parks in the Garrett County area, visit the Maryland DNR website.
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