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Maryland State Parks

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Lower Eastern Shore Region
Pocomoke State Forest
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POCOMOKE STATE FOREST
POCOMOKE STATE FOREST
6572 Snow Hill Road
Snow Hill, Maryland   21863

Phone: 410-632-3732
The Pocomoke State Forest consists of 14,753 acres in Worcester County,and lies between Snow Hill and Pocomoke City. The forest is famous for its stands of loblolly pine trees. Cypress swamps border the Pocomoke River and the nearby waters provide good fishing. Five areas in the forest, including the swamp, are designated Wildlands Areas.
History of the Area
Pocomoke State Forest is a state forest located in Worcester County and Wicomico County in Maryland, United States. Here is a brief history of Pocomoke State Forest:

1. Early History: The area that is now Pocomoke State Forest was initially inhabited by the Native American tribes, including the Pocomoke and Assateague tribes. These tribes relied on the forest's abundant resources for their sustenance.

2. Lumbering Era: In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Pocomoke Forest was extensively logged for its timber. Timber companies, such as the New York Lumber Company, played a significant role in cutting down many of the forest's trees for commercial purposes.

3. Reforestation and Conservation: In the early 20th century, the state of Maryland recognized the need to protect and rehabilitate the forest. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a New Deal program established during the Great Depression, played a pivotal role in reforesting the area. The CCC, from 1933 to 1942, planted trees, built roads, trails, bridges, and recreational facilities to restore the forest's health and improve accessibility.

4. Pocomoke State Forest: In 1933, Pocomoke State Forest was formally established by the Maryland Forest, Park and Wildlife Service. The forest spans over 15,000 acres and consists of various tree species, including pine, oak, and maple. The forest is known for its dense woodland, scenic beauty, and diverse wildlife.

5. Recreational Activities: Over the years, various outdoor recreational activities have been developed within the forest. This includes hiking trails, camping areas, fishing spots, and hunting opportunities. The forest also has picnic areas, pavilions, and playgrounds for visitors to enjoy.

6. Educational and Research Opportunities: Pocomoke State Forest offers educational programs and interpretive exhibits to educate visitors about the forest's ecology, history, and environmental significance. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources also conducts research on wildlife, vegetation, and forest management within the Pocomoke State Forest.

Pocomoke State Forest remains an important natural resource in Maryland, providing habitat for numerous plant and animal species and offering recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Its rich history and conservation efforts continue to shape and protect this woodland area.
Camping
1. Milburn Landing Area: This camping area within Pocomoke State Forest offers 32 campsites, including some with electric hookups for RVs and trailers. It also has a picnic shelter, playground equipment, restrooms with showers and flush toilets.

2. Shad Landing Area: The larger of the two campgrounds in Pocomoke State Forest is located on the south side of the forest near Snow Hill town center. There are over 175 sites available here which include cabins as well as tent-only areas.

3. Primitive Camping Sites: For those who prefer to be closer to nature without any amenities can opt for primitive camping options at designated spots throughout this state forest where you have access only by foot or boat.

4. The Nature Trail Campsite: A small secluded site that provides an opportunity for solitude while still being close enough to facilities if needed.

5. Paddler's Overnight Stop (POS): These overnight stops provide basic accommodations such as fire rings but no water source or restroom facilities; they're designed specifically for paddlers traveling along Nassawango Creek Canoe Trail through Pocomoke River system.

6. Group Camping Areas: Both Milburn landing & shad landing offer group-camping areas ideal large families/groups looking forward spending time together outdoors.

7. Cabins: If roughing it isn't your style there are fully furnished mini/camper cabins equipped electricity heat/air conditioning refrigerator stove microwave toaster coffee pot outdoor grill table/chairs etc., providing comfort convenience home amidst natural beauty surroundings.
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Trails
1. Algonquin Cross County Trail: This 12.5-mile trail is perfect for hikers, bikers and horseback riders alike with its diverse terrain of hardwood forests, pine plantations and wetlands.

2. Chandler Tract Loop: A short but scenic loop that covers about a mile through the forest's lush greenery; ideal for beginners or those looking to enjoy nature without too much exertion.

3. Milburn Landing Nature Trails: These trails offer an easy hike along Nassawango Creek where you can spot various bird species as well as other wildlife in their natural habitat.

4. Pocomoke River Canoe Company's Forested Wetland Walkway: An elevated boardwalk over swampy areas providing unique views of cypress trees draped in Spanish moss while also offering opportunities to see turtles, frogs and waterfowl up close.

5. Shad Landing Area Hiking Trails: Consists of several interconnected loops totaling approximately five miles which wind around ponds filled with lily pads during summer months.

6. Hudson Woods Trail: A moderate difficulty level hiking path stretching across three miles within dense woods featuring beautiful wildflowers especially during spring season.

7. Cypress Swamp Nature Trail: It offers a self-guided tour on wooden walkways above blackwater swamps giving visitors chance to observe bald eagles nesting high atop towering Loblolly pines from safe distance away.

8. White Oaks Campground Path: Short half:a-mile long walking route suitable even for families having small children due it being flat & wide enough allowing strollers easily pass by each other.

9. Nassawango Preserve Stewardship Site: Offers two different paths (one shorter than another) both leading towards same destination i.e., Furnace Town Historic site showcasing remnants old iron furnace used back in early 19th century.

10. Pusey Branch Heron Rookery Overlook: Less known among tourists, this trail leads to a secluded spot where you can observe herons nesting in their natural habitat.

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Area Campgrounds
Lake Somerset Family Campground
8650 Lake Somerset Road
Westover, MD
410-957-1866

Directions
1. Start by heading south on US:13 S.
2. Continue driving for approximately 30 miles until you reach the town of Pocomoke City.
3. In Pocomoke City, turn left onto Market Street (MD:373 E).
4. Follow MD:373 E for about 5 miles until you see signs directing you to the entrance of Pocomoke State Forest.
5. Turn right into the forest's main entrance and proceed along the designated roadways.

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Maryland State Parks

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