Eagle's Nest Campground

Campsites at the Eagle’s Nest Campground are a good base for visiting the Savage River State Forest, which lies along the eastern edge of the Eastern Continental Divide. It encompasses the State River Reservoir that was built in 1952 by the United States Army and is now frequented by anglers hoping to lure large and smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and bluegill. You can stretch your legs on the more than 70 miles of hiking trails that wind through the forest, including the 17-mile Big Savage Trail, or explore the designated horseback riding and mountain biking routes. White-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and black bears are also found within its borders, and hunting is permitted in designated areas and seasons. Also in Maryland is the Green Ridge State Forest, a 46,000-acre protected area in Allegany County that was once home to the largest apple orchards in the world. It’s renowned for its scenic overlooks and relaxation spots along the banks of the Potomac River, as well as the tracks and tunnels of the abandoned Western Maryland Railway. More than 40 miles of hiking trails wind through the state forest, ranging from mountainous climbs boasting spectacular views to relatively flat routes following the park’s valleys and streams. A designated mountain bike circuit is also accessible to riders, offering 12 miles of challenging terrain. A 30-minute drive north of the Eagle’s Nest Campground is the Rocky Gap State Park, which was created following a donation by Edward Habeeb in the 1960s. In 1970, the Army Corps of Engineers created Lake Habeeb by the damming of Rocky Gap Run, and this 243-acre water body is now a hub for recreation. It’s a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boating (all of which are available for rent), as well as fishing for bass, black crappie, rainbow trout, and channel catfish. The lake is backed by the summit of Evitts Mountain, which can be accessed along the five-mile Evitts Homesite Trail that winds through beautiful areas of rhododendron and mountain laurel.