Picturesque Getaway at Swallow Falls State Park near Deep Creek Lake in Maryland

Swallow Falls State Park is a 257-acre preserve on Youghiogheny River.

This relatively small state park has beautiful and unique nature that attracts visitors from all over the world. It is located near Deep Creek Lake and is considered to be one of the top attractions to visit during your Deep Creek Lake getaway.

Muddy Creek Falls and white pine and eastern hemlock trees, dating back more than 300 years, are the highlights of the park. There are also a number of rare plants and animals in the park for visitors to explore.

Maryland's 53-foot Muddy Creek Falls is the highest free-falling waterfall in Maryland. You can get to the overlook of the falls with just a 10-minute trail walk from parking. Another 10 minutes to the right – and you see the Swallow Falls (after which the park was named). Or, you can do a longer loop around to both. ⁠⁠

The park offers endless outdoor activities. Hiking, mountain biking through miles of relatively easy trails, horseback riding, rock climbing, fishing, swimming, kayaking, and whitewater rafting on the Youghiogheny River. There are also spectacular picnic areas and playgrounds for kids in the park.

In the winter months, the park provides opportunities for amazing photos of nature and frozen waterfalls and ten miles of trails suitable for snowshoeing.

The park is open from ​8 a.m. to sunset year-round. Pets are not allowed from Memorial Day to Labor Day.