Swallow Falls State Park Campground

About

Swallow Falls State Park Campground sits in the forested mountains of Garrett County at an elevation of approximately 2,600 feet, making it one of Maryland's coolest summer destinations. The 65 wooded campsites are divided between two loops: Garrett Loop operates from early April through early December, while Tolliver Loop is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Each site features a fire ring, picnic table, and lantern post on a stabilized pad. Six sites offer utility hookups: three full hookup sites (40, 42, 42A) with electric, water, and sewer, and three partial hookup sites (19, 21, 23) with water and electric. The campground provides modern amenities including bathhouses with hot and cold running water and showers, a dump station, and a camp store. Three camper cabins are also available for those wanting a roof overhead. The park is notable for having no cell phone service, so campers should plan accordingly. Quiet hours run from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m., and alcoholic beverages are prohibited. The surrounding park protects stands of virgin hemlock and white pine forest, some trees over 300 years old. A 1.25-mile Canyon Trail connects four waterfalls including the 53-foot Muddy Creek Falls, Maryland's tallest single-drop waterfall. The Youghiogheny River runs through the park, offering opportunities for trout fishing.

Directions

From Oakland, MD, take Route 219 north. Turn left onto Mayhew Inn Road, then left onto Swallow Falls Road. Follow signs to the park entrance.