Nice paths, old-growth trees, waterfalls, slow waters, wild birds, dragonflies! Swallow Falls State Park near Deep Creek Lake, MD, is a nice park with well-marked paths and plenty of parking. We hiked half-a-day (Jun 2026) from the parking lot to scenic waterfalls in forests where Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and Harvey Firestone camped-in 1921. We saw some of the 37-acres of 360-year-old eastern hemlock and white pine trees, the largest of the few areas in Maryland that have never been logged, bypassed during the eastern-US logging boom of the the late 1800s and early 1900s. They tended to look a little scraggly around the base, i suppose from living an un-trimmed life in the un-tamed weather and climate. We were thrilled to read that, on June 16, 2026, the removal of old-growth forests that were threatened by bridge construction on Swallow Falls Road was blocked by the courts. Thank-you to the folks of Garrett County and the Chesapeake Legal Alliance!!! We love these old trees :-) We heard twittering birds, possibly blackburnian warblers, chickadees, nuthatches, and kinglets. We followed a rising rumbling sound, and found ourselves at a tall waterfall that roars and mists. We were careful to avoid rushing waters, and found that wading and crossing were pleasantly refreshing and not too slippery. We saw kayakers, and one paused to explain they liked these calmer waters for beginners and for staying in condition in less challenging settings. We loved the gold and black "black-shouldered spinylegs" dragonflies, we and may have glimpsed a rare all-black "sable clubtail" dragonfly, who flitted about but didnt wait for a photo or an entomology app. Let's say we saw one :-). It was a lovely cooler half-day deep in nature in a not-too-challenging environment in rare-these-days old-growth forests. read more

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What a wonderful afternoon out in nature! The falls were beautiful and the hike was pretty easy. We were visiting some friends up in deep creek and we decided to take it outside and enjoy this beautiful day. So glad we did, it was one of the first "nice" days of spring when we attended. It was pretty crowded, but we still had no issues parking and even enjoyed the scenic drive to the park. read more

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7/5/23. Have been coming here pretty much my whole life! My grandparent took my Mother/aunts when they were dating what became their husbands. I did the same now grandkids come! read more

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The park, main trail, and falls are hidden gems that not enough Marylanders know about. The park has three main falls: Muddy Creek Falls (the tall one), Swallow falls (the longer one), and Tolliver Falls (the little one). Muddy Creek Falls make for a good photo backdrop, and you get good views of Swallow falls and the Canyon Trail hike is easy and has good views of the Youghiogheny River. Tolliver Falls can be at the end of your hike but you can also walk straight there from the park's entrance (it's a big loop); it's little but almost intimate and very scenic. This is a very easy park to access with good parking so long as you don't go at peak times on a busy weekend. The trail is easy and well-maintained the waterfalls provide good photos and views. I have come here many times and I still find it a nice, leisurely way to spend a couple of hours. read more

So cute! Low-key park with lots of trails. We had a fun time exploring the main trail to Swallow Falls and hiked several trails branching off of it to Muddy Falls, etc. There was decent foot traffic on the trail but not so much that it was overwhelming for a holiday weekend. The trail is easy, but warning that there is a steep decline/incline with steps down to the water and back up. But the photo ops are great by the water. I saw kids in the water but would NOT recommend it as the rapids are swift. Restrooms and an ice cream truck, along with a separate playground area make this a great outting for families. read more

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Okay, this is literally one of those places that make you feel like you are in a movie. It's that surreal and that beautiful. Here we go again with a place in an area that I have been to hundreds of times yet I had never visited this park or even knew about it. It was only by chance that I happened to see it on a map and all while looking for a new place to enjoy a bite to eat on this app. I have to say this place has more beauty per square inch than almost any state park of forest I have ever been to up to this review. I had an amazing time hiking the trails with my friend because every single trail is utterly alluring and especially the one below the main waterfall, but be aware that you will become wet from the mist coming from it and it is marvelous and especially on a hot day. The only downfall to this place is you have to pay to enter it which is totally ludicrous considering it is a state park. Shame on the State of Maryland for charging this fee and for charging out of state residents even more. Smh! Enjoy :D read more

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This is a 1.1 mile round trip loop that is perfect for families. The woods were gorgeous and filled with so many trees we don't have in the Midwest. The waterfalls are the main draw and they didn't disappoint. There were three falls during the hike and it was relatively easy to navigate even with kids 5-10. I strongly recommend if you are at deep creek lake to make the 15 min drive and enjoy the beauty of western Maryland. read more

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We came here during Thanksgiving week. When we got there, the parking was full but after a few minutes of waiting, we got a parking spot. We have small kids from 6 to 9 years. Everything is walkable distance. We love the view that the nature has created. There are so many areas where Instagram worthy pictures are taken. read more

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Stopped here on a winter Saturday. Had been here with after school program years ago in warmer times, but never in snow. Could be treacherous - especially on the steps leading down to the falls as they don't shovel the steps so caution must be exercised. Was a nice trip. Could be busy with a lot of people making the same stop too. read more

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Get your cameras locked and loaded because this place with its easy hiking and picturesque views (has about 3-4 different and stunning views) is worth it. The hike (round-trip) is about 1-1.5 miles long. We saw sunbathers and picnic groups hanging out in the middle of the falls on the rocks at various point - so cool! Our group of 11 adults and 3 kids took this hike on Labor Day early afternoon and enjoyed it so very much: $3 pp, Veterans are no charge, Kids in car seats are no charge, and they have annual passes available. The park has also got some land for picnic and grilling and a small park for kids. A couple portable bathrooms and a little trailer from Lakeside Creamery if you want a treat before or after. Def worth it if you are in the area! *Limited parking even with their overflow lot, so plan to come earlier or later to avoid the crowds read more

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4.5 Pre-lockdown experience. If anyone follows my reviews (there used to be a lot of y'all), you know that I love green spaces. I'll review a park over a craft cocktail or burger spot any day. Check the FtRs. Me likey the outdoors. So, when my buddy announced that part of our guys long weekend would be spent outside doing outside things in late fall in western Maryland, I grumbled the least.* After a hearty breakfast we made our way to the park. I don't know what I was expecting but those expectations were exceeded the minute we stepped out of the car and into the entrance. Mature virgin hemlocks reach for the sky and invite you in. On every side are sights to behold, moss and rocks for atmosphere and a well-worn trail to walk. Beyond the trees and comforting silence are waterways, small cliffs and (if you visit in colder months) icicles galore. Despite the water in the air and the cold temps, I felt perfectly comfortable hiking around. Come prepared to take photos. There are some breathtaking views of air, earth, wood, and water so pay attention. I didn't see any fauna (mammals or birds) but I was so taken with the flora I didn't much mind. I don't think we went off-trail but there were several moments atop large rocks and waterfalls that I thought 'this probably isn't the safest thing I've done.' Be advised and be careful. And, if I did something I shouldn't have... artistic license, yeah? Final takeaway: come. I haven't felt this at peace in quite some time and given how much of a [redacted] 2020 has been so far, doesn't peace sound good? *I have to have *some* grumble. Have you met me? read more

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There's a $3/person charge for residents of Maryland, and it's on the honor system. Pay in an envelope and shove it into a bin at entrance before proceeding to park. The bin was full three cars ahead of us so visitors were struggling to jam their money in, which led to confusion and delays. We ultimately went into the gift shop and paid with the cashier there. The maps are helpful and easily navigated is to the trails. The trails lead to different views of various falls and the hike is very easy to maybe slightly moderate. In some areas it gets narrow so you have stand to the side to allow oncoming hikers by, but that's par for the course. The views of the falls are up close, with a range of vantage points, and are very enjoyable and relaxing. Plenty of opportunities for photos. We spent about an hour and half hiking, checking out the views, and taking pics. There's also an ice cream truck by the parking lot that takes cash only. Recommended! read more

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Easy hike. Beautiful views. We were here when the water levels were low, but the falls were still pretty. I will say ... getting to the falls means lots of up and down step. So if you have issues with steps, stay up on the loop and skip the steps. read more

Very nice park. You can do some hiking through semi-difficult trails (I did it with my 4-year-old, but she needed to be carried, and my retired parents). There's also a quick and easy path to the big waterfall (Muddy Creek Falls). There's handicap parking right next to the Muddy Creek Falls, so if you're traveling with someone who has mobility issues, you could still see a great part of the park. It's a must stop for me when I am in the area. read more

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More amazing waterfalls per step than any other park nearby. Flat, easy walk/"hike" with views that'll get you to forget the prickly people and focus on the beauty of prickly plants. read more

Swallow Falls State Park - Parks Near Me - Oakland, Maryland

Saturday May 19th, my hubby and I enjoyed hiking at this lovely State Park. There is a cost for this park. Maryland state residents $3 per person, out of state residents $5 but the fee also includes Herrington Manor State Park. One fee for both parks! Swallow Falls State Park on the Youghiogheny River. It is more like a rapid not a real fall but it is still flowing very rapidly and is lovely to look at. There are two main trails the upper trail takes you via the lovely Virgin Hemlock Tree grove forest thick canopy tops very dark and damp in here with ferns and moss everywhere!! Very lovely and very green. The lower trail takes you to the waters edge along the river to all four falls, Muddy Creek, Lower Falls, Swallow Falls and Tolliver Falls. Be careful if you wade in anywhere, rocks are extremely slippery but you are allowed to get into the water but use Caution!! Watch your kids!!! You can also walk out to the top of these falls so be careful!!! THERE ARE NOT RAILINGS UP THERE ON THE TOP OF THE FALLS, YOU CAN HAVE A SEVERE ACCIDENT EASILY, ROCKS VERY SLIPPERY HERE!!! You will be on some really big rocks that can be wet and you definitely don't want to fall in here. There are many stairs on the lower trail so not really great for wheelchairs or strollers so use the upper trail. These lovely groves of Virgin Hemlocks are lovely and remind me of pine trees but super tall. The groves of Hemlocks are very tall and lovely! I have to admit, I used my off here because of the dense forest and wet like conditions with all the ferns and trees so thick that its like a dark canopy in there. I still got bit by a mosquito so be careful with any kids, make sure everyone is covered in OFF or some sort of Deet. WARNING: Rocks very slippery! There is no barriers at the tops of the falls so also take warning and be careful with any pets and kids. Rocks are slippery and you can go over. You are allowed to Wade in the river and the bottom of the falls but the water is strong and swift so be extra careful Since you are having to pay to enjoy God's backyard here, Be sure to see all four waterfalls in this lovely park!!! read more

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I am 77 and could only go to the Muddy Creek Falls. But it was beautiful. Glad I got to see it. Steps down to other falls was too hard for me. Grandsons enjoyed lower falls for swimming. read more

A great state park near Deep Creek. We stayed in McHenry and it was about a 20 minute drive for us. Rates on our day of visit were $3/person for Maryland residents and $5/person for out of state residents. They do seem to offer some discounts. There was plenty of parking. The trail is 1.25 miles total. It is definitely rocky, steep-ish and a little slippery in some spots so I would recommend at the very least wearing sneakers (we saw some folks struggling in Crocs and flip flops). I would probably skip the Tolliver Falls if I did it again, they were the smallest and it was a little difficult for one person in my group to get down to them. They do have a little "shortcut" to skip them. The Muddy Creek Falls were my favorite. Would definitely recommend a visit. read more

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Swallow Falls State Park is a beautiful area, and the main hike that is the major draw is wonderful. The Swallow Falls Canyon Trail is a loop trail that is a little over a mile long and takes you past three waterfalls when done in its entirety. When you first enter the woods, it is very impressive as it is old growth forest with a lot of hemlocks - they just tower above you and really inspire some awe. It's far enough away from the river that it is fairly quiet in this area, which helps to contribute to the overall atmosphere. We opted to head left, which means we saw Muddy Creek Falls first. It's a very impressive sight. It can be viewed from an overlook, as well as from water level if you opt to head down the stairs and follow the trail. The trail brings you along the river and to the Lower and Upper Swallow Falls, which are also very scenic, with some interesting rock formations and plants to see. The third waterfall is the Tolliver Falls, which is a smaller and quieter falls, both as a waterfall and as a location - most people we passed had flocked to the river and the larger falls, resulting in a louder, more crowded experience. Tolliver Falls, on the other hand, is a small, picturesque falls with a little pond-like area below it, and people seemed to be more relaxed when visiting it. It was very peaceful. The trail then led us back to the beautiful forest and the front of the loop. Wonderful hike with a lot of great scenery! Also a tip that a kind staff person shared with us - the entrance fee for Swallow Falls State Park also includes your entrance to nearby Herrington Manor State Park if visited on the same day. read more

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We had a lovely time here and really enjoyed our visit. Both Swallow Falls and Muddy Creek Falls are worth seeing, and not to difficult or strenuous to get there! The trails and entire park are very well-maintained. read more

Swallow Falls State Park - Parks Near Me - Oakland, Maryland

Awesome hike! Love this state park. However on September 34, 2019 I had a strange experience while hiking by myself here at Swallow Falls State Park. It was a Wednesday or a Sunday (Can't Remember) around 2 pm. I began my hike, As I was hiking picking up a fallen pine cone to sniff it... I heard some deep breathing following me. I started to speed up more and more picking up as many pine cones as I could carry. Whatever was following me was after me. I just knew it. As I ran faster and faster I knew something was on my tracks. I finally made it back to the parking lot jumped in my 2002 PT Cruiser and I BOUNCED. Before I made it out of the parking lot I caught a glimpse of what was chasing me. I believe it was the extremely rare ManBearPig. I suggest carrying a bottle of Dr. Pepper with you while hiking this trail. It's the only known deterrent of the ManBearPig. read more

Swallow Falls State Park - I created this sketch with a professional sketch artist. This is the only know sketch of the ManBearPig as of this review. - Parks Near Me - Oakland, Maryland

Easy walk to Falls both ways, quiet & beautiful scenery. A must if visiting Deep Creek

The most waterfalls I've been to in one place. We had a great hike checking out the place. If yuh your in the area you have to stop & check it out. They have some handy cap parking places closer to falls. read more

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This a real gem, and I'm amazed we didn't know about this before. Fully deserves the uniform 5 star rating. Provides for short hikes through one the oldest hemlock and pine forests in Maryland, with spectacular views of the two creeks that converge just below Muddy Creek Fall. Come dressed in your swimwear and bring a small towel. Swimming under waterfalls isn't something you'd expect in Maryland ! We will most certainly be back. read more

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Absolutely beautiful! I was in deep creek for a week and decided that I wanted to see something different rather than the lake. A quick search and I found this park. It was 30 minutes out of my way but well worth it. It costs 5 bucks a person to get in. There is alot of parking, a playground and picnic tables and even real restrooms! The trail leading to the falls is very well maintained. It's a beautiful view of the forest. I ended up at the top falls. The view was beautiful and so peaceful. There is a ton of area to enjoy the view and theres a little area to be in the water. There is swimming at the bottom of the falls but I wasnt sure how to get there. I hung out for about a half hour but ran out of drinking water. I really wanted to hike some more but I'll be back for sure read more

Swallow Falls State Park - Beautiful views of the forest - Parks Near Me - Oakland, Maryland

Swallow falls is a must-see. Camping rates are extremely affordable. Highly recommended for anyone that wants to get outdoors and see some amazing natural landmarks. The trail was very easy. Bring a folding camp chair so you can sit in the stream as the water passes underneath you. This would also be an amazing place for photos. read more

Swallow Falls State Park - Parks Near Me - Oakland, Maryland

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We have visited this park many times in the 10 years prior to COVID. Easy hiking & trails among mature old hemlocks and spectacular waterfalls. You'll want to take pictures. They have built wooden steps & walkways as well as viewing platforms at several points. We have never been to this park after Labor Day when it was crowded. Until today. It's the Saturday AFTER Labor Day & by 11am it was literally packed. We were astounded. Entry was $3 pp in state & $5 pp out of state. Vets are free, as are kids in car seats. You can buy a yearly pass. We actually waited in line in our car to pay. Never had that happen. And we parked in the overflow area. Never did that in 10 years either. We made this a quick visit & only took pix at Muddy Creek Falls. With all the people & dogs it was hard to maintain social distancing. Plus I go hiking for peace & quiet and it was loud today. Having said that, it is definitely a must visit if you've never been there. Pack a picnic, take pix, wade in the water but be careful of the cliffs & slippery rocks! The beauty is astounding. They allows dogs after Labor Day until Memorial Day (but check state park web page for up to date info). read more

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So so beautiful! It just happened that this State Park was 10 minutes down the road from where BF and I were staying for the weekend. It had just snowed, but we decided to make the trek anyway. We weren't sure if staff had gone through and somewhat cleared the trail or if the trail was just clear because previous hikers had trodden it down, but either way the path was clear. The first fall, Muddy something (sorry can't remember the name) was the most beautiful. The whole trail took us a little under an hour and was about 1.7 miles according to my Fitbit. Definitely worth the trip! read more

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Perfect state park for a family to hike, fish, swim and picnic. The trails are easily navigable and beauty of nature surrounds you. With several falls of varying heights, there's cool sights everywhere. It is a state park, so there's a fee to enter, but it is well worth it! read more

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Great place. A must-see if you're in the area. However, be aware that older adults or young children may have difficulty in some parts of the trail. There are lots of stairs and rocks to walk over. A more seasoned hiker would probably consider this trail a cake walk! The one issue we had was that the trail has multiple little diversions and the main trail isn't well-marked as such. It would be helpful to label it with a color. So I definitely suggest grabbing a map before you head onward. And you'll be fine. It's not that big a park. Enjoy! read more

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I've been here during/shortly after a big snow fall and it's unreal. Wear your snow boots and hike through a legit winter wonderland. read more

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Go there with my wife it's a beautiful walk n very beautiful experience waterfalls n trails gift shops n places to swim

We loved this place. Magical. The falls are incredible and the forest is peaceful and quiet. We went in mid March and there was still a bit of ice but we were able to see a bunch. Highly recommend. read more

Swallow Falls State Park - Fallen tree with roots exposed - Parks Near Me - Oakland, Maryland

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Great state park. Clean, some places moderate difficulty for hiking. Gorgeous scenery. Had autumn fest going on and were making apple butter at the park. They had several apple things for sale (apple donuts, apple cider etc) and it was great. read more

$3 to get in per person for in state people - $5 for out of state. Really nice state park and very pretty.

Simply stunning! The scenery at Swallow Falls is gorgeous --- rain or shine. My boyfriend and I visited on a particularly wet and dreary day, but it didn't take away from our experience one bit! The terrain is relatively easy to navigate, and the falls are in close distance to each other. read more

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Totally awesome park! I thought parks like this didn't exist except for some Federal gems. This park is absolutely gorgeous and well taken care of. I didn't see a bit of litter or graffiti, something that has become the norm for inconsiderate people thinking they own the planet. The hikes can get a little dicey but that's what you're there and should be prepared for! We went on a dry day, but I would be a little more nervous to go if it had recently rained. It is a photographer's DREAM and great for the active couple or family, though I wouldn't venture too far with little ones because it is very rustic and there aren't many actual man-made paths. The gift shop was also a cool little addition. We picked up some fun souvenirs and everything was priced very reasonably! The gift shop also had some household and food items for local campers that stay in cabins and houses near the park entrance. They also have a bathroom building that obviously wasn't the best but it was clean and well-stocked with tissue (and much better than using a porta-a-john!) Bring your camera and your hiking boots!! And please don't litter- keep this place looking beautiful! read more

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This is my favorite park in this area. We come here often during the year for a hike. Each season brings a whole new view of this area. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes, the trail gets uneven as you climb on the rocks. There are three waterfalls and tons of little place to see the rivers. The park also has a campground. read more

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Loved this place! Could have hung out here all day long. Was sad I didn't pack my suit though. The hike is pretty easy, my 64 year old mom could do it. We saw all the falls. The trees/forest is amazing. You are mostly shaded on the trails unless you go in the falls. $5/person to get in. The souvenir shop could use some better quality items. They also had a little ice cream stand. Highly recommend! read more

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There's not much to say that hasn't already been said about Swallow Falls. My husband and I have been here on several occasions, and it's definitely a must when visiting Deep Creek. We headed here yesterday for a mini-getaway. It was a perfect day - late in the season, not a lot of fellow hikers, the weather was perfect. The only downside during this visit was that the falls were a little lack-luster, since there hasn't been much rain. Tolliver Falls, which generally has a large pool at the bottom that I have waded in, was completely dry. Since the weather was on the cooler side, we didn't get in the water. Also, you rarely see any garbage or debris. Which is strange because there are no garbage cans around, except inside the bathrooms (at least this visit). So, patrons are either respectful of the park or workers do a good job keeping it beautiful or both. Still, a beautiful day - took some great photos. Always worth the trip. read more

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