Alert - The park is closed at this time for renovations. We look forward to reopening and sharing the improvements with you soon.
Welcome!
Savage Highlands State Park is Mountain Maryland's newest state park, purchased in November 2024. Previously called "Savage River Lodge" under private ownership, this 40-acre park features a lodge, 18 cabins, and 8 yurts.
Learn more by selecting a topic below.
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About
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The Highlands Lodge
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Overnight Accomodations
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Recreational Activities
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Public Access
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Wildlife
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Resources and Partnerships
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News and Updates
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Public Comments
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Fast FAQs
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Stuff To Know
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Native Plantings
About
Savage Highlands is located about ten miles west of Frostburg, MD, near the Allegany Front and Eastern Continental Divide in Garrett County. It is securely positioned within the westernmost reaches of the Chesapeake Bay watershed, despite being perched over 2500 ft in elevation on Big Savage Mountain. The surrounding Mt. Aetna Tract of Savage River State Forest allows for about eight miles of non-motorized, multi-use
trails. Hiking, mountain biking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and picnicking can be accommodated from the state park.
Hunting opportunities and fishing in the Savage River are accessible nearby from the adjacent Savage River State Forest. Wildlife enthusiasts may see white tailed deer, black bear, bobcats, birds-of-prey, and a variety of song birds and reptiles while exploring the property. Guests are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace outdoor
ethics to minimize their impact on the surrounding resources and avoid any potential for negative wildlife interactions.
Savage Highlands State Park aims to provide safe, affordable and accessible accommodations for visitors of all ages. Its management goals will be customer service driven, offering diverse recreational experiences while prioritizing resource protection and environmental stewardship. While the current management team works to ready the park for opening, interested persons are welcome to share their thoughts, ideas, feedback and personal photos and stories by emailing (forthcoming).
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The Highlands Lodge
- Contact Information
- Address: 1600 Mt. Aetna Road Frostburg, MD 21532
- Phone: 301-895-5453
- Email: (forthcoming)
- Services Provided
- Currently closed for public access
The Highlands Lodge: The Lodge at Savage Highlands State Park, located at 1600 Mt. Aetna Rd, Frostburg, MD 21532, will serve as the central hub for information, reservations, and other visitor services. Amenities include public WiFi, restrooms, ADA access, an electric vehicle charging station, a large, indoor wood burning fireplace, an extensive collection of books and games, and cozy indoor and outdoor seating. Food concessions are currently being considered, as well as opportunities to rent spaces within the Lodge for meetings and special events.
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Overnight Accomodations
CABINS: Savage Highlands State Park has 18 cabins that will eventually be available to reserve year-round. Cabins vary between two and four person capacities. They will have either a king size or queen size bed in an upstairs loft, and some cabins will also have a sleeper sofa on the main level. The cabins also feature full bathrooms, propane fireplaces and wifi. Several cabins are designated as pet-friendly. (more information forthcoming)
YURTS: Savage Highlands State Park has eight yurts that will eventually be available for visitors to reserve for overnight stays. Yurts vary between two and four person capacities. They will have either a king size or queen size bed, and some yurts will also include an additional bed for additional guests. The yurts also feature full bathrooms, propane fireplaces and wifi. (more information forthcoming)
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Recreational Activities
HIKING
Savage Highlands State Park will provide access to approximately eight miles of moderately challenging multi-use trails within Savage River State Forest, collectively known as the Mt. Aetna Tract (forthcoming). The forest is a natural area with certain hazards, such as poison ivy and slippery trail surfaces. Remember, you are responsible for having the necessary skills, knowledge and equipment for a safe and environmentally sensitive visit.
CROSS COUNTRY SKIING
When conditions allow, cross-country skis and snowshoes will be available for rent at the Highlands Lodge.
FISHING
Although there are no fishing opportunities within the boundaries of Savage Highlands State Park, Savage River can be accessed within the State Forest. A parking lot is available next to the bridge on Mt. Aetna Road. The Savage River and its tributary, Mudlick Run, are native brook trout streams. There is a zero creel limit on brook trout.
Savage River extends far beyond the boundaries of Savage River State Forest. Anglers are encouraged to respect the rights of neighboring landowners and seek permission before attempting to park, fish, or enter private property. The privilege of fishing and right of entry to private property is at the owner’s discretion.
Anglers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the
latest regulations to ensure compliance.
HUNTING
Hunting is prohibited at Savage Highlands State Park. The surrounding Savage River State Forest does allow hunting. State Forest boundaries and safety zones are clearly marked. Bright colored clothing is recommended during popular hunting seasons such as whitetailed deer firearms season, Maryland black bear season, and wild turkey seasons.
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Public Access
Public access is currently prohibited while park management works to transition the property into a state park. Access to the Mt. Aetna trail system within Savage River State Forest can be achieved by parking in the designated parking lot on Mt. Aetna Road, next to the bridge across the Savage River.
Requests to tour the Savage Highlands property can be arranged by appointment. (Forthcoming)
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Wildlife
Observing or encountering wildlife is a common experience around Savage Highlands State Park. Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics and respect wildlife by providing ample distance between you and the animal, and refraining from feeding, handling or harassing wildlife in any way, including keeping pets on a leash. It is important not to interfere with wildlife’s natural instincts and abilities to thrive in their habitat.
While many potential wildlife interactions are harmless, situations involving nuisance or distressed animals can arise. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) provides
several resources to assist residents and visitors in these instances:
Nuisance Wildlife: For concerns about animals causing property damage or posing safety risks, contact DNR’s Wildlife Service at 1-877-463-6497. Operators are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding state holidays.
Injured, Sick, or Orphaned Wildlife: If you encounter wildlife that appears injured, ill, or abandoned, it's important not to intervene directly, as untrained handling can be harmful to both humans and animals. Instead, reach out to licensed wildlife rehabilitators through the same Wildlife Service hotline at 1-877-463-6497. They can provide guidance on appropriate actions.
General Wildlife Inquiries: For other wildlife-related questions or to report non-urgent issues, contact the DNR Wildlife and Heritage Service at 410-260-8540 during regular business hours.
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Resources and Partnerships
Natural Resource Police
Savage River State Forest
Garrett County
Chamber of Commerce (visitor piece)
Visit Deep Creek Chamber of Commerce
Allegany County Tourism
City of Frostburg
Savage Highlands State Park is located in Garrett County, miles from Interstate-68 (Exit 29). Within 45 minutes east of Savage Highlands, guests can visit Rocky Gap State Park or the bustling mountain cities of Cumberland and Frostburg. Alternatively, 45 minutes in the opposite direction guests can explore the Deep Creek Lake area, including best kept secrets like New Germany State Park and small rural towns like Friendsville, Accident and Grantsville.
For those interested in exploring the charming Garrett County small towns near Savage Highlands State Park, the
Garrett County Small Town Trail provides insights into the attractions, dining, and shopping experiences each town has to offer.
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News and Updates
Update- October 2025:
Park staff have been working hard to prepare facilities for public use. Recent projects include removing hazardous trees and stumps, clearing brush, cleaning yurt exteriors, staining decks, replacing porch roofs, and planting trees.
Click the images for a larger view.
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The public comments on the transformation of Savage River Lodge into a state park reflect diverse perspectives and suggestions.
Click to see a summary of those comments.
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Fast FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
General Information
What is the size of Savage Highlands State Park?
Savage Highlands State Park is 40 acres. It is bordered on all sides by over 700 acres of Savage River State Forest known as the Mt. Aetna Tract.
When did Savage Highlands become a State Park?
The property was purchased by the Department of Natural Resources in November 2024. It previously operated as a private resort called the Savage River Lodge. It is managed by the Maryland Park Service as part of the New Germany State Park Complex.
Is Savage Highlands State Park open to the public?
The park is not currently open to the public while efforts are underway to renovate facilities and develop a management plan. Requests to visit the property can be facilitated by appointment.
Will we still be able to rent the cabins and yurts?
Visitors will eventually be able to make reservations to stay in a cabin or yurt. Park management is currently exploring the potential to increase sleeping capacities in certain accommodations, as well as alternatives to make facilities better equipped to store and prepare food. Reservations are not being accepted at this time.
Will I be able to visit Savage Highlands State Park if I am not staying overnight?
Yes, Savage Highlands State Park will eventually be open to day use visitors in addition to overnight guests. Efforts will be made to provide adequate parking, restrooms, picnic areas and informational bulletin boards to accommodate day use visitors. The Highlands Lodge will be a hub for all guests looking to unwind, relax and connect.
Can we have a special event at Savage Highlands State Park?
Savage Highlands State Park will eventually allow for the public to rent space within the Highlands Lodge for private events, such as meetings, celebration space, corporate retreats and intimate weddings. This amenity will be thoughtfully considered as part of a larger management plan for the park. Reservations are not being accepted at this time.
Will the Highlands Lodge have food services?
Due to the remoteness of the location, park management acknowledges the need and public demand to provide food at the lodge. Discussions are ongoing about how to modify cabins to allow guests to be more self-sustainable during their stay, as well as considering fiscally responsible concessions and meal alternatives to make available at the Highlands Lodge.
Will Savage Highlands State Park be pet friendly?
Leashed pets will be permitted in all outdoor common areas of the park, including the Savage River State Forest trails. Pets will be permitted in designated cabins.
Is there a plan to address the rough entrance road?
Yes. Once weather and conditions allow, park staff will regrade the road and address the numerous potholes and hazards to the best of their ability. Park management is also working closely with the Department of Natural Resources’ Engineering and Construction team to work toward long-term solutions.
How can I provide feedback about the new state park?
Maryland Park Service Leadership and Savage Highlands management want to hear from past and future guests of the property to help make informed decisions. Please share your thoughts, requests and questions by emailing (forthcoming). Previous guests of the Savage River Lodge are also encouraged to share their experiences, memories and photographs so the park can honor the history and legacy of this special places.
Is hunting allowed around Savage Highlands State Park?
Hunting is prohibited at Savage Highlands State Park, however the surrounding Savage River State Forest is a designated hunting area. Park boundary and safety zone signs clear demark hunting areas. Outdoor enthusiasts of all pursuits are encouraged to share our public lands safely and respectfully.
Where can I go fishing?
Public access for fishing is available along the Savage River within Savage River State Forest. Guests can park at the designated parking lot next to the bridge on Mt. Aetna Rd. A non-tidal fishing license is required for any anglers 16 years or older, as well as a trout stamp if targeting trout species.
Are there designated swimming areas?
There are no designated swimming areas at Savage Highlands State Park. Visitors may wade into Mudlick Run or the Savage River within Savage River State Forest at their own risk.
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Stuff To Know
- Overview
- Introduction to Savage Highlands, its location (surrounded by over 700 acres of Savage River State Forest), size (40 acres), significance and opening updates
- History
- Land was acquired by previous owners, Mike Dreisbach and Jan Russell in 1990 where they homesteaded for eight years in what is now the ski shop, working toward their dream of building the perfect nature venue.
- First cabin guests in October 1999.
- First yurt guests in May 2014.
- Acquisition by the State of Maryland in November 2024.
- Geography and Ecology
- more information forthcoming
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