Savage River State Forest wilderness guide
State Forest · MD

Savage River State Forest

Savage River State Forest offers a diverse range of outdoor activities in the heart of Maryland. Its vast acreage includes opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and winter sports.

State Forest54,0004+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

54,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Savage River State Forest

Savage River State Forest offers a diverse range of outdoor activities in the heart of Maryland. Its vast acreage includes opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and winter sports.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Savage River State Forest, located in western Maryland, spans over 54,000 acres and provides an extensive natural landscape ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The forest features rugged terrain typical of the Appalachian Mountains, including deep valleys, pristine waterways, and dense hardwood forests. Established in 1934 to protect the area's natural resources and provide recreational opportunities, it is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. From the colorful autumn foliage to the snow-draped winter months, the forest offers year-round appeal. Popular activities include hiking along its numerous trails, enjoying the tranquil solitude of the wilderness while camping, and casting a line in one of the many streams and rivers for native trout. Savage River State Forest also serves as an important conservation area, maintaining habitats for species like black bears and providing critical water quality protection for the local watershed.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Savage River State Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Savage River Reservoir, a peaceful setting for fishing and paddling.✦ Poplar Lick Trail, known for its stunning views and diverse ecosystem.✦ The historic Finzel Swamp, a unique high-altitude wetland area.✦ St. John's Rock, a popular destination for rock climbing aficionados.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Savage River State Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Savage River State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees, but some campsites require reservations.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Savage River State Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Big Run State Park Campground

Located on the shore of Savage River Reservoir, offering both primitive and electric sites.

New Germany State Park Campground

Offers both cabins and tents with amenities nearby, nestled within the surrounding forest.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Savage River State Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Keyser, West Virginia
⌖ 6.21 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Keyser, West Virginia

Keyser offers a peaceful outdoor escape along the North Branch Potomac River with excellent paddling, fishing, and hiking nearby. It's a great base for exploring West Virginia’s Allegheny Highlands away from crowds.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Elk Garden, West Virginia
⌖ 11.04 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Elk Garden, West Virginia

Elk Garden is a peaceful gateway town to rugged hiking and backpacking in northeastern West Virginia’s Monongahela National Forest. It’s ideal for outdoor lovers seeking solitude, wildlife viewing, and backcountry adventures.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Frostburg, Maryland
⌖ 11.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Frostburg, Maryland

Frostburg offers a gateway to outdoor adventures with its scenic trails, rich wildlife, and thrilling activities. From hiking and biking on the Great Allegheny Passage to skiing nearby slopes, this Maryland town is a perfect base for exploration.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Grantsville, Maryland
⌖ 13.95 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Grantsville, Maryland

Grantsville, MD is a charming gateway to western Maryland's outdoor activities. Ideal for hiking, fishing, and skiing, it's a perfect spot for adventure seekers craving rustic beauty and seasonal variety.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Fort Ashby, West Virginia
⌖ 14.49 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fort Ashby, West Virginia

Fort Ashby, WV is a small town offering peaceful hiking and paddling along the Potomac River, with historic colonial forts and quiet country roads ideal for cycling and birding.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Carpendale, West Virginia
⌖ 15.42 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Carpendale, West Virginia

Carpendale offers outdoor lovers a tranquil base near the Potomac River and Tuscarora State Forest, perfect for paddling, fishing, and hiking through quiet Appalachian woodlands.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Savage River State Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Cheat Narrows: A Wild, Uncrowded Day on the Cheat River
ADVEXPEDITION
Albright, West Virginia
RaftingADV Bookable

Cheat Narrows: A Wild, Uncrowded Day on the Cheat River

A 3-hour guided rafting trip out of Cheat River Outfitters in Albright that showcases the Cheat’s changing, undammed flows, wildlife, and a laid-back river day.

RaftingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip