Potomac-Garrett State Forest, Protected area in Maryland, United States
Potomac-Garrett State Forest is a large forested area in southwestern Garrett County, Maryland, encompassing roughly 19,000 acres of mountainous slopes, streams, and valleys. The landscape features mixed hardwood trees including oaks, maples, and cherries, varying from windswept ridgetops to rich, moist slopes near river drainage.
The forest began in 1906 when the Garrett Brothers donated nearly 2,000 acres to establish state conservation efforts. This gift marked the start of Maryland's public forest management and set the foundation for what has developed into the state's ongoing land preservation work.
The forest's name honors both the Potomac River and the Garrett Brothers who originally donated the land. Visitors can observe how hunting, fishing, and camping remain central to local life and community connection to the natural landscape.
The forest office is located in Oakland, Maryland, and open on weekdays, though calling ahead is wise since staff often work outdoors or are away from the office. You can obtain maps, trail guides, and information about permits for camping, pavilion rentals, or firewood collection at the office.
The forest's origins trace to an 1906 donation by the Garrett Brothers, making it an early example of private land conservation gift in the United States. This generosity became the catalyst for Maryland's entire state forest system and remains woven into its character today.
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