• Heritage Area At a Glance 

  • Potomac-Garrett State Forest

    Categories

    Forests & ParksCampingParks, Nature Centers & RecreationTrails

    About Us

    This forest contains 12,400 acres of trees, streams and wildlife. It is located along Backbone Mountain, near the headwaters of the historic Potomac River. The terrain is rugged with elevations ranging from 1,800 feet along the Potomac to 2,960 feet on Backbone Mountain.

    This steep gradient has numerous fast falling brooks and streams which feed the river. Several of the larger streams are Schell, Laurel, Lostland Run and Crabtree Creek. The possibilities for recreation in the forest are, for the most part, of a primitive nature.

    It offers scenic vistas, camping, hunting, fishing, biking, and nature appreciation. Various activities are offered throughout the year. Pets are a welcome addition.

    Visit parkreservations.maryland.gov or call 1.888.432.2267 for camping information.

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  • This project has been financed in part with State Funds from the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority, an instrumentality of the State of Maryland.
    However, project contents or opinions do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority.

  • Photo Credits: Tim Jacobsen, Bob Carney, Marcia Warnick, Sarah Myers, Crede Calhoun, Higher Focus Studios, Garrett Historical Society, Sarah Duck, Garrett County Chamber of Commerce