Located within Garrett State Forest, the 365-acre Herrington Manor offers 20 wooded log cabins situated within walking distance of a 53-acre lake, hiking trails, and a beautiful visitors’ center.
But if you’re thinking, “Cabin? No way, not me,” think again.
While they may be rustic, they’re far from primitive. In fact, each has electricity, running water, a kitchen, and even a bathroom with a shower. And while you do need to bring your own linens and food, the cabins come stocked with pots, pans, dishware, and the always-welcome coffee pot.
Additionally, each cabin offers a gorgeous stone fireplace (complete with a stack of wood) to keep that autumn chill at bay, and a large dining table just beckoning you to eat together and play late-night board games. And for the kids? Well, if you’re having trouble finding them, look up in the very cool, made-to-be-a-fort loft.
“Our cabins offer guests nostalgia not found in many places and a chance for families to really unplug and reconnect with one another,” says Patty Manown Mash, with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. “Open year round, we have people stay for family and college reunions, family getaways, even girlfriend retreats. We can even have a certified massage therapist come in for people who request it.”
Developed in the 1930s with the aid of the Civilian Conservation Corps, the park’s lake was formed by damming Herrington Creek; the original 10 cabins were erected on a wooded knoll above the lake. But it wasn’t until 1964 that Herrington Manor was designated as a state park. Today, it offers swimming, boating in rowboats, canoes, and paddle boats, picnicking, hiking, tennis, volleyball, and the furnished cabins. The latter are quite popular, though, so don’t drag your feet if you hope to snag one.
“Most of the year, the cabins are rented out,” says Mash. “We’re especially busy during the summer and holidays. While the state owns the land, it’s open all year long for the public to enjoy. It’s neat to see families come up with their little kids and follow animal tracks or just sit and enjoy the silence.
“There really is an ambience about staying in a cabin in the woods.”
Not that solitude is all the area has to offer. Along with Herrington Manor’s roster of activities, its close proximity to neighboring Swallow Falls State Park, historic downtown Oakland, and popular Deep Creek Lake will have you wondering what to do now and what to save for your next visit.
“Downtown Oakland offers a lot of history,” says Mash. “The B&O Train Station has a cute little gift shop where local artisans sell their work, and the train speeds right past the windows, which is always a hit with the kids.”
Oakland also boasts Englanders, a wonderful antique shop/restaurant with several booths, tables, and counter seating. With a no-nonsense, down-home menu and an old-timey feel, almost everyone there knows everyone else and offers a smile to those they don’t.
Neighboring Deep Creek Lake, with its stunning foliage and popular Wisp Ski Resort, offers even more fun for the family. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, try out the Mountain Coaster, the only one of its kind in the Mid-Atlantic Region. This rollercoaster (of sorts) zips you down through the forest in a toboggan-like cart controlled by a hand brake (little ones can ride with Mom or Dad).
Another not-to-be-missed stop is the Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center, where kids can get up close and personal with nature. Located along the shores of Deep Creek Lake, the center is a one-of-a-kind educational venue with hands-on exhibits that showcase the natural resources of western Maryland.
Of course, western Maryland—with its singular beauty and countless activities—is a one-of-a-kind destination in and of itself. So whether you decide to fill your visit with people, places, and activities, or simply opt to relax and recharge in a cabin with the kids, you’ll be so glad you came.
For more information on Herrington Manor State Park, call 1-888-432-2267.
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