MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES FOREST SERVICE

Recreation and Trails


T​rails
Camping
Fishing
3-D Archery Range​
Pavilion Rentals

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Trails

Potomac-Garrett State Forest has over 80 miles of trails open to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. E-bikes are not permitted on any trail. Not all trails are open to all uses; contact headquarters at 301-707-6539 before your visit to confirm current trail conditions and restrictions.

Horseback riding is permitted on designated maintained trails and roads. Horses are not allowed on foot trails in the Wilderness Ranch area, the Watchable Wildlife area, or the Lostland Run area.

Trail maps by area:

Winter use: Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are permitted throughout the forest. South Snaggy Mountain trails are recommended for backcountry snowshoeing. Snowshoers must walk beside, not on, groomed ski tracks.

Geocaching: Eight geocaches are located throughout the forest. All geocaches must be approved by forest staff before placement. Ge​ocaching Guidelines (PDF) — Geocaching Approval Form (PDF)

Metal detectors and artifact removal are prohibited on state forest lands under COMAR 08.07.01.18. Exceptions require a permit from the Maryland Historical Trust.

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Camping

Potomac-Garrett State Forest offers primitive camping year-round at 36 sites across five areas. Each site includes a picnic table, lantern post, and fire ring. Vault toilets are available in each area. Sites and trail shelters are first-come, first-served. Group sites require advance reservation; contact headquarters at 301-707-6539.

Maximum consecutive stay: 14 days per site.

Rates

  • Traditional site: $10 per night
  • Shelter site: $15 per night
  • Group site: $20 per night (reservation required)

Backpack camping: $10 per night. Backpackers must register at one of the four self-registration kiosks and submit payment with an itinerary listing all campers' names. Backcountry Camping Permit (PDF).

Campfires are permitted except during drought conditions. Camping is not allowed within 200 feet of any trail or stream. Leave No Trace guidelines apply.

Firewood must be purchased from local vendors or gathered on site. Do not bring firewood from outside the forest. Transporting firewood between geographic areas is a primary pathway for the introduction of invasive forest insects.

Camping Areas

  • Piney Mountain — 7 sites. 172 Piney Mountain Road, Friendsville, MD 21531
  • Snaggy Mountain — 10 sites; trail shelter available. 3739 Snaggy Mountain Road, Oakland, MD 21550
  • Wallman/Laurel Run — 14 sites; trail shelters available at Wallman and Laurel Run. 15 Laurel Run Road, Oakland, MD 21550
  • Lostland Run — 5 sites. 1701 Potomac Camp Road, Oakland, MD 21550
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Fishing

Potomac-Garrett State Forest provides access to fishing on the North Branch of the Potomac River and several tributary streams. Species in the Potomac River include smallmouth bass, rock bass, and multiple trout species. Lostland Run and Laurel Run support wild brook trout and stocked brown and rainbow trout through DNR's trout management program. Jennings Randolph Lake is accessible downstream on the Potomac River; a boat ramp on the Maryland side is located off Mt. Zion Road at MD Route 135. Expect strong currents, large boulders, and fallen trees in the water.

A valid Maryland Freshwater Fishing License is required. For regulations, creel limits, and special management areas, contact the Western Maryland Fisheries Office at 301-334-8218 or consult the Maryland Fishing and Crabbing Regulations.

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3-D Archery Range

Potomac-Garrett State Forest operates the only 3-D archery range in Maryland's public lands system. The range features 30 life-size three-dimensional targets. Open daily April 1 through September 10, sunrise to sunset.

Rates

  • Adults: $10 per round
  • Ages 12–16: $5 per round
  • Under 12: free

3-D Archery Range Flier (PDF)

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Pavilion Rental

The Potomac Pavilion is available for daily rental. The pavilion includes picnic tables, a restroom (no running water), and electricity. Advance reservation is required; contact headquarters at 301-707-6539.

Rate: $25 per day

Regulations

  1. No camping at any time.
  2. No open fires. Propane and charcoal grills are permitted.
  3. Pets must be kept under control at all times.
  4. Alcohol is permitted on pavilion grounds only.
  5. No trash receptacles are provided. Remove all trash and belongings upon departure.

Address: 1431 Potomac Camp Road, Oakland, MD 21550


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For current trail closures or conditions, contact headquarters at 301-707-6539 or check the Potomac-Garrett State Forest homepage.​