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Garrett County: Land of Seven Lakes
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By Ken Wishnick
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Maryland.com
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 | | Swallow Falls State Park |
For many years, Deep Creek Lake was promoted as "Maryland's Best Kept Secret." That ad campaign could have been a model for "truth in advertising." Few people outside the local area ever heard of Westernmost Maryland's magnificent 3900-acre mountain lake. Even for those in the know, loading up the kids to travel all day on winding back roads just didn't have much appeal.
This all changed with the building of Interstate 68. Driving from the Baltimore/Washington area became an easy, enjoyable three-hour sprint. With only 11 traffic lights in all of Garrett County, this area quickly became an awesome contrast to the beltway congestion left behind.
A unique Deep Creek Lake experience is parking your car and traveling by boat to resort amenities. Don't have a boat? Local marinas have rentals available, but be sure to reserve in advance during peak times. Enjoy the luxury of water travel to several fine restaurants and the Lakeside Creamery, which won national first place competitions for both their vanilla and chocolate ice cream. Docking also is convenient to shopping, movie theatres, the state park beach and DNR's Discovery Center.
Fishing on Deep Creek Lake is legendary. Fishermen have been observed to be so absorbed in their pursuit that Mother Nature's most violent rain or wind conditions provide no discouragement. Winter ice fishing has also grown in popularity and creates a Norman Rockwell scene with scattered anglers framed by snow-covered mountains in the backdrop.
One thing visitors won't find at the lake is mosquitoes. There is a notable absence of this insect, which makes the consistently cool summer evenings fun to enjoy outdoors.
Although the popularity of Deep Creek Lake has been growing, Garrett County still retains a secret that even many returning vacationers are not aware of. In addition to Deep Creek, there are six other local recreational lakes, just waiting to be discovered by visitors. Each area has its own unique personality and each is within a half hour drive of Deep Creek.
Ever have a fantasy of water skiing or fishing on your own private lake? Think about this setting- clean refreshing lake waters with a surrounding mountainous landscape and you're hard pressed to spot another boat or lake user on the horizon! We're talking about the Jennings Randolph Lake just North of the old coal mining community of Kitzmiller.
As returning visitors may already know, the Potomac River has its headwaters at a point where the Garrett County (and Maryland) boundary joins with West Virginia's. The Fairfax Stone marker commemorates this significant location and is easily accessible from route 219. Anyway, after the north Branch of the Potomac River flows some 25 miles from this point, it becomes a U.S. Corps of Engineers constructed lake, which continues forming the Maryland and West Virginia border. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources operates a public boat ramp access here and fishing licenses from both states are legal.
Jennings Randolph Lake is 952 acres in size, has a shoreline of 13.6 miles and is 5.5 miles from end to end. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources operates a 600 foot lighted concrete boat ramp that can be accessed from State Highway 135 via Mt. Zion Road.
Looking for an isolated lake that bans powerboats, then consider the Savage River Reservoir. A long-time favorite for flatwater canoe and kayak enthusiasts, this mountain lake offers unsurpassed tranquility. Never tried kayaking? Rent one and check it out! They come in both single and tandem configurations. High Mountain Sports even rents an open top version so those who may be phobic about being trapped in its confines have nothing to fear! There is a dam at the south end of the reservoir, which provides a gateway to a spectacular fly fishing area. Some whitewater enthusiasts may recall that the 1988 Olympic trials were held here in Garrett County and it was at this very location where all the action took place. The footbridge crossing the Savage River still remains where the network camera crews remained perched throughout the event's duration. If you're the adventure type person that appreciates natural beauty, you won't leave this area disappointed!
The opportunity to swim in a cool mountain lake is sought after by many visitors to Garrett County. Most people simply ask for directions to the beach at Deep Creek Lake State Park and have a great time lounging on chairs or blankets while their children romp in the waters or play in the sand. They have none of the hassles of traveling to the ocean and all the relaxation of being waterside. It often comes as a surprise to visitors that there are three other public beach areas in Garrett County. They can be found at Herrington Manor State Park, New Germany State Park and Broadford Lake Park. All have sandy entrance areas, roped off swimming zones and lifeguards on duty.
Herrington Manor Lake is 53 acres in size and located within Herrington Manor State Park. The park derived its name from Abijah Herrington, who patrolled this area during the Revolutionary War. It has twenty rustic cabins for rent that have been featured as both perfect for a getaway and very affordable. The beach area is very user friendly. Boat rentals are also available including rowboats, canoes and paddleboats.
This is a great place for the family to spend some time. Swim, fish, boat and have a picnic in the great outdoors! For hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts, take the trail connecting Herrington Manor with Swallow Falls State Park. Be forewarned it's about five miles, but not a difficult hike. Have the designated non-hiker in your group drive to Swallow Falls Park and meet you there.
At just 13 acres, New Germany Lake, in New Germany State Park, is the smallest of Garrett County's seven. Due to its size, it is often overlooked by visitors and herein lies its appeal. If quiet surroundings and a sparsely used swimming area are what you are looking for, this one's for you. You can also rent mini kayaks, surfbikes and other water toys. Never tried kayaking or a surfbike? Here's your chance. The lake is stocked with sport fish and anglers often come away smiling. The park also offers eleven rental cabins and thirty-nine campsites. There are facilities for picnicking, hiking and fields for recreation.
Where do the locals go to swim and frolick? Broadford Lake Park is the family fun hub. It offers one of the nicest beach areas and a lakehouse. At 140 acres, it's large enough for flat water canoeing and kayaking with the security of having assistance nearby. Pets are welcomed here and the lake is stocked with trout, crappie, bass and catfish. There are covered picnic pavilions that can be reserved in advance. Broadford Lake Park also offers ball fields, tennis courts and hiking areas. It is interesting to note that the park is owned by the town of Oakland yet located in the town of Mountain Lake Park.
Many people that visit Deep Creek Lake are taken aback by the lake's 12-mile length. What is not generally known is that the Youghiogheny River Lake is even longer measuring 16 miles from end to end. At 2,840 acres it's still smaller than Deep Creek's 3,900-acre footprint. Motorboats, jet skis and sailboats are all permitted here. The Mill Run Access Area has a Visitors Center, camping facilities, boat launch and swimming facility.
Visitors willing to venture out to Garrett County's other lake attractions during their stay will wonder why they never did this before. Spend seven days and visit seven lakes!
Article submitted by Garrett County Chamber of Commerce.
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Other Stories by Ken Wishnick
Oakland’s Restored Treasure
A Winter Wonderland
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