Tucked away in the serene ridges of Garrett County and nestled beside Garrett State Forest, Herrington Manor State Park is a year-round haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This scenic destination is among Maryland's best-kept secrets—offering peaceful surroundings, family-friendly fun, and endless outdoor recreation. Spanning 365 acres of natural beauty, the park features the stunning 53-acre Herrington Lake, a man-made lake created by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Just 4.2 miles from Swallow Falls State Park, both parks are managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
A Serendipitous Discovery
We stumbled upon Herrington Manor State Park quite by accident while heading back from Deep Creek Lake State Park last year. My kids had heard about it and were eager to stop by, so we gave in to their excitement and made a spontaneous detour. Within minutes, my husband had suggested booking a cabin—and just like that, our impromptu adventure began. In this article, I'll highlight what made our visit so memorable and share key attractions of Herrington Manor State Park MD and what we enjoyed the most on our visit there.
Visitor Information
Admission Fees
- Maryland Residents: $3 per vehicle
- Non-Maryland Residents: $5 per vehicle
From Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day: - $3 per person (MD residents)
- $5 per person (non-residents)
Ski Season (weekends & holidays): - Same as summer rates
For detailed admission fees and cabin rentals, check the official visitor guidelines.
Hours of Operation
- March to October: 8 AM – 6 PM
- November to February: 10 AM – Dusk
Top Activities & Attractions
1. Swimming and Kayaking
Herrington Manor State Park is a four-season getaway with activities for every time of year. Since we visited during the summer, we took full advantage of the water-based fun. The calm waves and sandy shores of Herrington Lake are perfect for families, with lifeguards on duty during peak times to ensure safety.
You can rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards—or bring your own non-motorized boats for a relaxing outing on the lake. It's a fantastic destination for anyone who enjoys water sports or simply lounging by the shore.
2. Walking, Hiking & Biking Trails
If you're seeking scenic and family-friendly trails in Maryland, Herrington Manor won't disappoint. The park's trails are more like nature walks than strenuous hikes, making them ideal for all ages. My kids loved exploring the quiet pathways lined with tall hemlock trees and flowing streams—it was peaceful and refreshing.
Adventure-seekers will also enjoy the biking trails, including the popular Herrington Manor to Swallow Falls Trail. You can view trail maps and full details here.
3. Wildlife & Bird Watching
A paradise for birdwatchers, Herrington Manor is home to an impressive variety of species. The top birdwatching spots include:
- Herrington Manor SP – Entire park (214 species)
- Herrington Lake – Lakeside (162 species)
- The Dip – Just outside the park (170+ species)
You might also catch a glimpse of deer, turkeys, and other wildlife throughout the year.
4. Winter Sports: Skiing & Snowshoeing
When winter rolls in, Herrington Manor transforms into a snowy playground. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities, with equipment available to rent. It's the perfect place to enjoy a cozy, snowy escape with friends and family.
5. Cabins & Camping
Herrington Manor State Park cabins are open to visitors throughout the year. We stayed in Cabin 2, which comfortably housed our family of four. The cabins offer a quiet, cozy retreat with plenty of amenities:
- Fully-equipped kitchens
- Bathrooms with hot showers
- Picnic tables
- Peaceful, wooded surroundings
- ADA-accessible options
- Close proximity to the lake and park attractions
For outdoor enthusiasts, Herrington Manor State Park camping provides a joyous and comfortable experience.
- Special Events
Herrington Manor also hosts a variety of events and interpretive programs throughout the year. A couple of local favorites include:
- Apple Butter Boil
- Fishing Rodeo
These community events, along with educational programs for both kids and adults, add even more charm to this delightful state park.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful place to unplug, Herrington Manor State Park MD is a true hidden gem. With beautiful scenery, family-friendly recreation, and nearby attractions, it offers the perfect escape from everyday life. Our spontaneous visit turned out to be a highlight of our trip—and we're already planning a return this summer!
