Garret State Forest

Oakland, MD U.S.A.

Recognized in 1906 as a uniquely ecological diverse forest, Garrett State Forest marked the beginning of Maryland’s public lands system.

Home to red oak, white oak, scarlet oak, black cherry, hickory, red maple, white pine and hemlock, this 8,000-acre forest hosts numerous species of wildlife.

Mountain streams and beaver ponds, cranberry bogs and valleys all contribute to the beauty and richness of this forest habitat.

Year-round primitive camping is available at several different sites. There is also backpacking, hiking, biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.

Bird-watching and wildlife photography are also popular.

Hunting is permitted seasonally.

This forest was the first land preserved for public use and conservation in Maryland.