Home / Environment / Maryland's New State Park Opens August 28
Maryland's New State Park Opens August 28
26 Aug
Summary
- New state park opens Aug. 28 in Garrett County, MD.
- Park offers lodging, trails, and access to 55,000 acres.
- Formerly a private lodge, purchased for $8.7 million.

Savage Highlands State Park, Maryland's newest addition, is set to open on August 28 in Garrett County. This new park provides access to lodging and trails, connecting visitors to the vast 55,000-acre Savage River State Forest in Western Maryland. The property, located at 1600 Mount Aetna Road in Frostburg, will serve as a crucial gateway to numerous recreational activities.
Officially dedicated on August 21, the park was formerly the privately owned Savage River Lodge. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources purchased it for about $8.7 million. This acquisition preserves the landscape and expands public access to outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, fishing, and more.
The park will initially offer access to a limited number of yurts and backcountry campsites starting August 28, with additional lodging and facilities opening in phases. Future improvements include upgraded infrastructure and enhanced accessibility. The name "Savage Highlands" reflects the area's high-elevation terrain and its link to the Savage River watershed.
Officials emphasize that Savage Highlands State Park is a significant addition to Maryland's public lands, safeguarding natural beauty and providing affordable outdoor experiences. The opening is part of a larger effort to expand public lands across Maryland, with other recent additions including Freedman's State Park and Wetipquin Creek State Park.