Hunting and Trapping Information
Hunting is permitted throughout the forest except where posted with safety zone signs. Big Run State Park and New Germany State Park are situated in the Savage River State Forest and hunting is prohibited in the state parks. The forest boundaries are marked with yellow paint on trees – a yellow bar as you enter the state forest and a yellow dot as you exit the state forest. Hunting on or crossing private land within or near the State Forest requires the written permission of the landowner. Parking is permitted along roadways, providing that traffic and forest gates are not blocked. Hunters must possess a valid Maryland Hunting License and should refer to the current Hunting and Trapping Guide for season dates and specific regulations.
Several roads are opened every fall to accommodate hunters. These gated roads are opened prior to squirrel season in September and remain open through
January 31. Opened roads can be used by all hunters and allow for licensed vehicular traffic. Due to the nature of these roads, the use of licensed four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended. No ORV’s are permitted on these roads.
Hunter safety classes are required for the purchase of a license. Classes are taught periodically through the Department of Natural Resources. Classes are usually offered at one of the state parks, local hunting clubs or the local community college.
Trapping is permitted on both land and in the water. A permit can be issued for trapping on Savage River State Forest at the Regional Wildlife Office in Flintstone. Trappers are required to obtain a certificate of trapper education from the Department of Natural Resources. Trapper education courses are offered statewide. Refer to the Hunting and Trapping Guide for complete regulations. A valid hunting license is required when applying for a trapping permit.
Please refer to the 
Map of Savage River State Forest for designated hunting/trapping areas.
The Guide to Hunting & Trapping in Maryland contains the current regulations and seasons for hunting and trapping on Savage River State Forest.
Disabled Accessible
Savage River State Forest offers over 2.8 miles of accessible hunting areas. For additional accessible amenities in Maryland State Forests and Parks, visit the Access For All section of this website.
