Contact Information
349 Headquarters Lane
Grantsville, MD 21536
301-895-5453
Popular for picnicking and camping, New Germany State Park lies within the boundaries of Savage River State Forest at the northern slopes of Meadow Mountain. The 13-acre lake was formed when Poplar Lick Run was dammed for mill operation. This impoundment, known as Swauger's Mill Dam, was named for mid 19th century sawmill and gristmill builder, John Swauger.New Germany State Park is comprised of 455 acres in Western Maryland, 5 miles south of Grantsville in Savage River State Forest.
There is a self-guided nature trail and several lengthy color-coded multi-use trails especially suited for cross-country skiers. Winterized cabins entice outdoor enthusiasts even during the harshest of weather. There is even an ADA cabin. Looking for a location where the kids can release some extra energy? Try the children's playground or the summer-guarded lake beach. Visitors will find the campground a quiet and shaded area. It features hot showers, a perimeter trail, and a nearby nature center that was once a one-room school house.
Living history talks are presented throughout the summer by the park's very special resident manager that first arrived at the park in 1931. Ranger Martin's account of mountain life, the ice house, his mother and father's untiring efforts at the park, the days of the Civilian Conservation Corps, what entertained youngsters in the early 1900s, and many more stories will fascinate young listeners and bring a warm remembrance of the past to older visitors.
Anglers have always, and continue, to find success at the small lake. Each year, Maryland stocks the lake with rainbow trout. Other catches include largemouth bass and bluegill. The pace is definitely slower at New Germany State Park. Come experience the fresh air, the woodland flowers, the sparkling lake and the friendly spirit of the park.
Park features at New Germany include a boat launch, boat rental, cabins, cross-country skiing, campfire programs, living history programs, campsites, store, dump station, concession, fishing, flatwater canoeing, hiking, picnic ground, lake swimming, and nature center.
Washington, D.C. experiences four distinct seasons. Winters can be bitterly cold or pleasantly mild while summers can be miserably hot and humid or agreeably warm. The average January temperature is 37 degrees F (3 degrees C). The average July temperature is 78 degrees F (26 degrees C). Spring and fall are pleasant times of the year to visit the area, temperatures are mild with low humidity.
