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Maryland
219

Maryland State Parks

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Maryland
Western Region
Potomac State Forest
Baltimore Oriole © stateparks.com
A Baltimore Orioles nest is a tightly woven pouch located on the end of a branch hanging down on the underside.
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It is always a great day for a picnic in the park.
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POTOMAC STATE FOREST
POTOMAC STATE FOREST
1431 Potomac Camp Road
Oakland, Maryland   21550

Phone: 301-334-2038
The Potomac State Forest, 11,461 acres situated between the towns of Oakland and Westernport and partially bordering the Potomac River, is reached from Maryland Routes 135 and 560. The forest drains into the Potomac River Basin, and features the highest point in any Maryland state forest -- Backbone Mountain, elevation 3,200 feet. This is a Maryland State Forest. For full information go to the official webpage. (Link on the right side)
History of the Area
Potomac State Forest is a 11,535-acre forest located along the eastern edge of Allegany County in Maryland. The forest is managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and offers various recreational activities for visitors, including hiking, hunting, fishing, and camping.

The Potomac State Forest was established in 1914 as one of the earliest state forests in Maryland. The creation of the forest was prompted by concerns over deforestation and soil erosion in the region. By acquiring and managing forested lands, the state aimed to promote sustainable forestry practices and protect natural resources.

The forest's location along the Potomac River and its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains make it a scenic and ecologically diverse area. The forest consists mainly of mixed hardwoods, with species such as oak, hickory, maple, and beech dominating the landscape. These forests provide important habitat for a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and songbirds.

In addition to its natural resources, Potomac State Forest also has historical significance. It contains the ruins of Oldtown, a settlement established in the 18th century. Oldtown was once an important stopping point along the historic National Road, which connected Cumberland, Maryland, with Wheeling, West Virginia. Today, visitors can explore the remains of the town's streets, foundations, and cemetery.

Potomac State Forest has undergone various management practices to maintain and enhance its ecological integrity. This includes the establishment of wildlife management areas and the implementation of sustainable timber harvesting. The forest remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for recreation, education, and conservation.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseFishingyes
 Huntingyes
 Hiking Trailyes
 Picnickingyes
Camping
1. Wallman/Lostland Run Campsite: This is a primitive campsite located along the Lost Land Run stream, offering opportunities for fishing and hiking.

2. Laurel Run Primitive Camping Area: Located near Kitzmiller, this camping area offers 12 sites with picnic tables and fire rings on a first-come-first-served basis.

3. Backbone Mountain/Buzzard Swamp Wildlife Management Area: Although primarily used as hunting grounds during certain seasons, it also has several campsites available throughout the year.

4. Swallow Falls State Park Cabins & Yurts: While not directly within Potomac State Forest but nearby in Oakland MD; they offer cabins that sleep up to four people or yurts which can accommodate five guests each.

5. Savage River Lodge: Again just outside of Potomac state forest boundaries in Frostburg Maryland,they have rustic yet luxurious log cabin rentals nestled among more than 700 acres of serene forests.

6. Herrington Manor State park: It's about half an hour drive from potamac state forest .They offer full service cabins all year round.

7. New Germany state park: They provide both Cabin rental options (13 fully furnished cabins)and tent camping facilities(39 wooded campsites).

Nearby Accommodations
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Cottages and Cabins
For those who like to fish for wild trout...this is the place to be Savage River Outfitters is a full line Orvis Dealer and Fly Shop with vacation rentals located on the Savage River in Western Maryland. Call ahead to book a half or full day wade trip or fly fishing instructions.
14.5 miles from park*
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Trails
1. Lostland Run Trail: A 3.4-mile moderately trafficked out-and-back trail featuring a waterfall and beautiful wildflowers, suitable for all skill levels.

2. Wallman/Laurel Run Trails: These trails combine to form an approximately 10-mile loop through the forest with moderate difficulty level due to some steep sections.

3. Potomac State Forest Loop Trail: This is a challenging but rewarding hike of about 12 miles that offers scenic views over Maryland's forests and hillsides.

4. Laurel Ridge/Potomac Overlook Trails: Two interconnected paths totaling around six miles in length offering stunning overlooks on the Potomac River Valley below; these are considered easy-to-moderate hikes ideal for families or beginners.

5. Swallow Falls Canyon Loop: Located near Oakland, this three mile heavily:trafficked loop features waterfalls along its path making it one of the most popular hiking spots within close proximity to Potomac State Forest.

6. Pine Swamp Road/Backbone Mountain Hike: An adventurous trek up Backbone Mountain which at just under four miles round trip provides hikers with panoramic vistas from Hoye:Crest, Maryland's highest point.

7. Thousand Acres Lakeside Golf Club Pathway: Although primarily used as golf course pathway during summer months, this five kilometer stretch doubles as serene walking/hiking route off-season providing tranquil lake side scenery throughout.

8. Negro Mountain Trail: Named after Negro mountain range where it lies, this seven mile long trail takes you across diverse terrains including hardwood forests, bogs & rocky ridges while also crossing state lines into Pennsylvania briefly before looping back into Maryland territory again.

9. Garrett County Cross Country Skiing Route: Primarily designed keeping cross country skiing enthusiasts in mind, during non:winter seasons this ten kilometer track serves well suited for those looking forward towards longer day-hikes amidst dense coniferous forests.

10. Snaggy Mountain Road Trail: A 5-mile trail that offers a variety of activities and is best used from March until October, with the opportunity to see wildlife along the way.

11. Savage River State Forest Trails: Although technically not within Potomac state forest boundaries, these trails are located just few miles away & offer additional hiking options including Big Savage Hiking Trail which stretches over seventeen miles across diverse terrains.
Things To Do in the Area
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Fishing
For those who like to fish for wild trout...this is the place to be Savage River Outfitters is a full line Orvis Dealer and Fly Shop with vacation rentals located on the Savage River in Western Maryland. Call ahead to book a half or full day wade trip or fly fishing instructions.
14.5 miles from park*

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Directions
1. Start by heading west on Interstate 68.
2. Take exit 34 for MD:36 toward Westernport/Lonaconing.
3. Turn left onto MD:36 S/Old Frostburg Rd (signs for Lonaconing).
4. Continue straight onto Main St/MD:936 W and drive through the town of Lonaconing.
5. After leaving Lonaconing, turn right onto Avilton:Lonaco Rd SW/Avilton-New Germany Rd SW (follow signs for New Germany State Park).
6. Stay on this road until you reach a T:junction with Bittinger Road NW; then make a slight left to stay on Avilton-Lonaco Rd SW/New Germany Road Swanton/Bittinger Road NW.
7. Continue driving along this road until you see signs directing you towards Potomac State Forest.

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Maryland
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Maryland State Parks

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