The Deep Creek Blog

The Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center - February Events

Saturday, February 4

11.00 a.m. Hoot of a Time Come down to the Discovery room to learn cool facts and meet one of the owls that live at the Center!

1:30 p.m. Turtle Talk Come learn about the different species of turtles found in Garrett County.  Explore the shell from the inside out and get the chance to touch these resident critters!

Sunday, February 5   

11.00 a.m. Critter Feeding!  Join the Naturalist as we feed the critters who live in the Discovery Center! Learn cool facts and find out what they eat in the wild!  

1:30 p.m. Wildlife Investigation This self guided program allows you to become a detective for the nature world.  Open your eyes and see the clues left behind by nature.  Can you tell the difference between the details and solve the puzzle? 

Saturday, February 11 11:00 a.m. Turtle Talk Come learn about the different species of turtles found in Garrett  county.  Explore the shell from the inside out and get the chance to touch these resident critters!

All Day Scavenger Hunt!   

Sunday, February 12 11.00 a.m. Critter Feeding!  Join the Naturalist as we feed the critters who live in the Discovery Center! Learn cool facts and find out what they eat in the wild!     

1:30 p.m. Wildlife Investigation This self guided program allows you to become a detective for the nature world.  Open your eyes and see the clues left behind by nature.  Can you tell the difference between the details and solve the puzzle?

Saturday, February 18 Wildlife Investigation This self guided program allows you to become a detective for the nature world.  Open your eyes and see the clues left behind by nature.  Can you tell the difference between the details and solve the puzzle?

Scavenger Hunt!   

Sunday, February 19   Aviary Encounter Come to the aviary to get up close and personal with our birds of prey. Learn some interesting facts and hear stories. Bring a camera because they will be perched for a great photo opportunity!

Scavenger Hunt! See the front desk to complete an indoor scavenger hunt and win a prize!       
Saturday, February 25 11:00 a.m. Lake Critters Lean about the animals that call Deep Creek Lake their home and discover the importance of watersheds.  Make a fish print to take home!

1:30 p.m. Critter Feeding!  Join the Naturalist as we feed the critters who live in the Discovery Center! Learn cool facts and find out what they eat in the wild

Sunday, February 26   Aviary Encounter Come to the aviary to get up close and personal with our birds of prey. Learn some interesting facts and hear stories. Bring a camera because they will be perched for a great photo opportunity!

Scavenger Hunt! See the front desk to complete an indoor scavenger hunt and win a prize!    
 
 
 
 

Camp Hosts Wanted at New Germany State Park

New Germany State Park is seeking applicants for a Camp Host position for the 2012 camping season.  Camp Hosts are a valuable part of the volunteer team at the park.  Hosts provide assistance with a variety of tasks throughout the camping season, including welcoming new campers, keeping campsites clean, promoting park programs and events, and providing campers with general information about the park and surrounding area.  Camp Hosts are required to contribute at least twenty hours of volunteer work each week, for a minimum of four weeks.  In return for their efforts, Camp Hosts receive a free campsite with electric hook-ups.  Interested persons are encouraged to apply at the New Germany Ranger Station.  A background check is required. For more information, please call 301-895-5453.

Winterfest Chili Cook-Off to be Held at New Germany State Park

New Germany State Park will be hosting a Winterfest Chili Cook-off on Saturday, January 14th, 2012.  In addition to the chili cook-off, the festival will feature a snowshoe race, a cross-country ski race, and family-friendly craft activities.  

A schedule of events is as follows: 
Snowshoe 50-Yard Dash:  Registration – 11:00 AM, Race – 11:30 AM
Cross-Country Ski Race:  Registration – 12:00 PM, Race – 1:00 PM
Chili Cook-Off:  Public Tasting & Judging – 2:00 PM (Pre-registration required).Awards Ceremony:  3:30 PM
Craft Activities:  11:00 AM – 4:00 PM 
Registration for all events will be free of charge and will take place at the New Germany Lake House.

Pre-registration for the Chili Cook-off is required no later than January 13th.  Electricity will be provided.  Cross-country skis and snowshoes will be available for rent at the New Germany Lake House.  A service charge of $3/ person for Maryland residents, and $4/ person for out-of-state residents will be collected at the park entrance.   For more details or to pre-register for the Chili Cook-off, please call 301-895-5453 or email park-new-germany@dnr.state.md.us.

First Hikes in MD State Parks

Don't forget the State Park system is sponsoring a day of "First Hikes" on New Years Day. 

Take a First Day Hike in a State Park

Celebrate the New Year with a First Day Hikes on January 1, 2012.  

Local State Parks will participate in America's State Parks First Day Hike Programs on New Year’s Day 2012. America’s State Parks First Day Hikes offer individuals and families an opportunity to begin the New Year rejuvenating and connecting with the outdoors by taking a guided hike on January 1, 2012 at a state park.  

Below is a list of opportunities to participate within  Garrett County.  

Deep Creek Lake State Park First Day Hike - First Day on the Lake
Time of Event:  2 p.m.
Hike will last approximately 1 hour.
Meeting Location: Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center
Degree of Difficulty: Easy to moderate hike for families of all ages
Length of Trail: The length of this hike will depend upon the weather conditions of the day.
Things to Bring: It is recommended that participants bring snowshoes or ice cleats to wear for those types of conditions. Participants should come prepared to be outside for an extended period of time in possibly very cold and windy weather conditions and bring drinking water.
Cancellation Information: Call Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center at 301-387-7067.
Additional Information: Take a shoreline walk with a Ranger on the first day of the new year. Walkers will learn about lake surface ice, what happens in the water under the ice during winter, and other tidbits about lakes in winter.

New Germany State Park First Day Hike - Walking in a Winter Wonderland
Time of Event:
1 p.m. Hike will last approximately 1 hour
Meeting Location: Meet at New Germany State Park Lake House
Degree of Difficulty: Easy hike for all ages.  Minimum age for kids: Age 4
Length of Trail: 1 mile
Things to bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather (rain, snow or shine), and bring water for drinking, and a camera (optional).
Cancellation Information: Call New Germany State Park at 301-895-5453.
Additional Information: Dogs on a leash are welcome

Swallow Falls State Park First Day Hike - Realm of the Ice King
Time of Event: 1 p.m. Hike will last approximately 1 hour.
Meeting Location: Meet at the main parking lot.
Degree of Difficulty: Easy to moderate hike for families of all ages
Length of Trail: 1 mile
Things to Bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather (rain, snow or shine), and bring water for drinking, and a camera (optional).
Cancellation Information: Call Herrington Manor State Park at 301-334-9180
Additional Information: See the falls in their winter dress. Rangers will discuss what we are doing to help protect this fragile eco-system. Not many people get to see the falls this time of year, so it should be a great treat!

Youghiogheny Scenic and Wild River First Day Hike - First Day on the River
Time of Event: 10 a.m.
Meeting Location: Meet at Friendsville access point.  Parking is limited. Degree of Difficulty: Easy to moderate walk for families of all ages
Length of Trail: The length of this hike will be determined by the weather conditions that day.
Things to Bring: Participants should wear footwear for snow and ice conditions. Participants should come prepared to be outside for an extended period of time in possibly very cold and windy weather conditions and bring drinking water.
Cancellation Information: Call the Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center at 301-387-7067
Additional Information: Take a riverside walk with a Ranger to celebrate the start of a new year. This walk is on a level path.

 

Deep Creek Discovery Center Holiday Schedule

Friday, December 23                            Closed State Furlough Day 

Saturday, December 24                      
11:00 a.m. Scavenger Hunt.  Meet at the front desk of the Discovery Center.                         1:30 p.m. Story n’ Craft.  Join the Park Naturalist for a seasonal story & craft. The program is $2.00 per child.

Sunday, December 25              Closed          

Monday, December 26                        
11:00a.m. Slithering Snakes.  Kids of all ages! Slither your way over to the Discovery Center for an afternoon of Snakes! Hear stories, learn interesting facts, participate in a craft, and even get the chance to see and touch these resident reptiles.                                                               
1:30p.m. Turtle Talk Come learn about the different species of turtles found in Garrett County. Explore the shell from the inside out and get the chance to touch these resident reptiles!  

Tuesday, December 27                      
11:00 a.m. Resident Raptor.  Come to the Discovery Room and meet one of the hawks or owls that live at the Center! Learn some interesting facts, take pictures, and hear their stories.
1:30 p.m. Wildlife Investigation This self guided program allows you to become a detective for the natural world. Open your eyes and see the clues left behind by nature. Can you tell the difference between the details and solve the puzzle? Fill out the worksheet and win a prize! 

Wednesday December 28                
11:00 a.m. Winter Birding.  Come sit inside and learn about the birds that visit the feeder. Also, create your own bird seed treat! Experienced and Beginner birders of all ages are welcomed!                           

1:30 p.m. Story n’ Craft.  Join a Park Naturalist for a seasonal story & craft. The program is $2.00 per child 

Thursday, December 29                      
11:00 a.m. Scavenger Hunt                                                               

1:30 p.m. The Bear Essentials. Discover the life of the American Black Bear and see how it revolves around their sense of smell. Dive in, nose first and learn some interesting facts. Appropriate for all ages. 

Friday, December 30                            Closed State Furlough Day 

Saturday December 31                        
11:00 a.m. Resident Raptor.  Come to the Discovery Room and meet one of the hawks or owls that live here at the Center! Learn some  interesting facts, take pictures, and hear their stories.                  
1:30 p.m. Bullfrog, Baby! Come over to the Discovery Center for a hoppin’ good time & learn about the Bullfrog!   

Sunday, January 1                              

11:00a.m. Slithering Snakes Kids of all ages! Slither your way over to the Discovery Center for an afternoon of Snakes! Hear stories, learn interesting facts, participate in a craft, and even get the chance to see and touch these resident reptiles.                                               

10:00 am First Day Hike on the Yough River Corridor.  Meet at the Friendsville access point bulletin board. If weather is inclement call the Discovery Center for hike information.

2:00p.m. First Day Hike at Deep Creek Lake State Park.  Join a Ranger for an hour walk along the shoreline of Deep Creek Lake. Walkers will learn about lake surface ice, what happens in the water under the ice during the winter and other winter lake facts. 

Holiday Open House at Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center

Today is the annual Holiday Open House at the Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center.  Enjoy crafts, cookies, hot chocolate and photos with Santa between 10am - 1pm today. 

Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center - November Events

Saturday, November 5                 

11:00am Tank Tours don’t miss this opportunity to know more about the residents of the Discovery Center. Hear stories, learn facts, and get a chance to touch different critters. Appropriate for all ages

1:00 p.m. Novelty Nose Attention, kids of all ages! Come to the Discovery Center and explore the life of a black bear. Activities and interesting facts will be presented by our park naturalist. Get the chance to touch real bear fur and see an actual skull! 

Sunday, November 6

11:00 p.m. Reading naturalist Join our Park Naturalist for a seasonal story and craft. The program is $2.00 per child.

2:00 p.m. Owls and Hawks Discover the similarities and difference between our birds of prey as they are perched outside their Mew’s for clear viewing and photography.  The park Naturalist will answer your questions and relay how the birds came to be at the Discovery Center.  1 hour.

Saturday, November 12

11:00 a.m. Feeder watch.  Join the naturalist for bird watching and identification at our feeders.  learn how to use a field guide and to identify basic field marks of our most common winter birds.  then join us as we make pinecone bird feeders for our featherd friends.  make one for the center and one to take home. 1 hour.

1:00 p.m. Happy Herps! Kids of all ages! Slither your way over to the discovery center for an afternoon of reptiles and amphibians! Learn about the similarities and differences between the two. Also, get the chance to be up close and personal by helping the Naturalist feed!

Sunday, November 13

11:00 a.m. Winter Woods. Open your eyes to the changing seasons by enjoying a relaxing hike. What do plants and animals do to survive in cold weather? Learn about how nature prepares for winter! Remember to dress appropriate! 1.5 miles. on the snakeroot trail.

2:00 p.m. Owls and Hawks Discover the similarities and difference between our birds of prey as they are perched outside their Mew’s for clear viewing and photography.  The park Naturalist will answer your questions and relay how the birds came to be at the Discovery Center.  1 hour.

Saturday, November 19

11:00am Tank Tours don’t miss this opportunity to know more about the residents of the Discovery Center. Hear stories, learn facts, and get a chance to touch different critters. Appropriate for all ages

1:00 p.m. Reading naturalist Join our Park Naturalist for a seasonal story and craft. The program is $2.00 per child.

Sunday, November 20

11:00 p.m.  Hike to the Brant Mine This program is a guided hike with the Park Naturalist to the Historic Brant Mine.  You will see the remnants of a coal mine that was operated in the 1920’s. Plus, you never know what you will see on the way!

2:00 p.m. Owls and Hawks Discover the similarities and difference between our birds of prey as they are perched outside their Mew’s for clear viewing and photography.  The park Naturalist will answer your questions and relay how the birds came to be at the Discovery Center.  1 hour.

                Friday, November 25 11;00 a.m. Feeder watch.  join the naturalist for bird watching and identification at our feeders.  learn how to use a field guide and to identify basic field marks of our most common winter birds.  then join us as we make pinecone bird feeders for our featherd friends.  make one for the center and one to take home. 1 hour.

Critter Encounters 1:00, 2:00 and 3:00pm.  join us for the chance to meet a different critter each hour. Join our Naturalist to disover new facts and watch feedings! All ages are welcomed!

Saturday, November 26

11:00 am Black Bears and you!  begin in the discovery center by learning about  black bear habitat, habits and conservation.  then take a short walk in the  discovery woods investigating and searching for bear sign and habitat. 1.5 hours

1:00 p.m. A Turkey’s Tale Come to the Discovery Center for a gobbling good time! Learn about the life of the Wild Turkey. Kids of all ages can participate in the various activities!

Sunday, November 27  

11:00 a.m.. Walk off the Holiday Nature Hike Join the naturalist on a nature hike on  our snakeroot trail to enjoy the signs of early winter, and possibly see wildlife as they prepare for winter. Trails are rocky, so please wear proper hiking footwear.  Approx. 1-1/2hr.

2:00 p.m. Owls and Hawks Discover the similarities and difference

New Germany State Park to Host Autumn Jubilee Festival

New Germany State Park will host a free fall festival featuring a variety of family-friendly activities including hayrides and a spooky haunted house, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on October 29.

“There’s nothing like the comfort of an old-fashioned hayride to celebrate the spirit of the season,” said Ranger Crystal McCann of New Germany State Park. “Children will have a great time making corn-husk dolls, exploring the spooky haunted house and showing off their costumes.”

Other activities will include arts and crafts from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., a children’s costume contest at 1 p.m., and a woodsmen demonstration at 2 p.m. The festival will also feature an “Old-Time Jam” of old-fashioned Appalachian music, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

All events will take place at the New Germany Lake House and Recreation Hall. Tasty treats will be available for purchase from Lakeside Creamery and Archie’s BBQ.

For more information, please contact 301-895-5453 or park-new-germany@dnr.state.md.us

October Events at the Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center

Saturday October 15:                                                                                                                                     
11:00 a.m. Story N’ Craft -Vulture- Join our Park Naturalist for the story ‘Vultures View’. Take part in a craft to take home! The program is $2.00 per child. Appropriate for ages 2-5.

1:00 p.m. Wilderness Survival Hike If you were lost in the woods, would you survive? Join our Park Naturalist for some tips on how to stay safe. Also, learn about what should be included in a Survival Kit.

Sunday October 16                                                              
11:00 a.m. Slithering Snakes Kids of all ages! Slither your way over to the Discovery Center for an afternoon of Snakes! Hear stories, learn interesting facts, participate in a craft, and even get the chance to see and touch these resident reptiles.

1:00 p.m. Avian Encounter Fly over to the new aviary to get up close and personal with our birds of prey. Bring a camera because they will be perched for a great photo opportunity!

                                                                                                                                                     Saturday October 22
11:00 a.m. Amazing Amphibians Come over to the Discovery Center for a hoppin’ good time! Learn about one of the resident frogs or salamanders. Life Cycles, adaptations, and other topics will be discussed.

1:00 p.m. Black Bears and You Take a hike with the Naturalist to discover the life of a Black Bear and see how it revolves around their sense of smell. Dive in, nose first and learn some interesting facts. Appropriate for all ages.

Sunday October 23                                                              
11:00 a.m. Slithering Snakes Kids of all ages! Slither your way over to the Discovery Center for an afternoon of Snakes! Hear stories, learn interesting facts, participate in a craft, and even get the chance to see and touch these resident reptiles.

1:00 p.m. Avian Encounter Fly over to the new aviary to get up close and personal with our birds of prey. Bring a camera because they will be perched for a great photo opportunity!

Saturday October 29
11:00 a.m. Story and Craft -Spiders- Join our Park Naturalist for a Story about Spiders. Participate in a craft about these creepy critters and learn about why they are so important!

1:00 p.m. Going Batty! Join the Park Naturalist for a fun afternoon about Bats. Discover the way they survive through activities and games!

Sunday October 30                                                              
11:00 a.m. Slithering Snakes Kids of all ages! Slither your way over to the Discovery Center for an afternoon of Snakes! Hear stories, learn interesting facts, participate in a craft, and even get the chance to see and touch these resident reptiles.

1:00 p.m. Avian Encounter Fly over to the new aviary to get up close and personal with our birds of prey. Bring a camera because they will be perched for a great photo opportunity!
 
 

New Germany State Park Hosts Geocaching 101

New Germany State Park will host a free, geocaching ‘how-to,’ taught by members of the Maryland Geocaching Society, from 9 to 10 a.m. on October 8 at the New Germany Lake House.

“There are a number of approved geocaches hidden in the park,” said Ranger Erin Thomas of New Germany State Park. “If you’re new to the game, this is a great place to get started.”

Geocaching is a world-wide treasure-hunting game in which participants use GPS units to locate ‘geocaches,’ which are containers that usually hold a logbook and other items. Upon locating a geocache, participants are encouraged to take an item from the container and replace it with something of equal or greater value.

A limited number of GPS units will be available for loan during the class. For more information, contact 301-895-5453 or park-new-germany@dnr.state.md.us.

New Germany State Park Hosting Castlebay Concert

New Germany State Park will be hosting a free concert by Castlebay, Maine’s premier Celtic folk duo, at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, September 28 in the New Germany Lake House.

Castlebay specializes in traditional Celtic folk music and music of the Maine coast, as well as evocative original compositions from members Julia Lane and Fred Gosbee. Julia plays the Celtic harp and Fred the violin as well as four other folk instruments.

The duo specializes in the poetry and songs of Robert Burns, reciting and signing his work in the original dialect. Having a deep appreciation for the unique character of their home state of Maine, as well as the Celtic lands, Castlebay weaves history, legend and experience into their personable performance style.

Castlebay has toured the United States, Ireland, England and Scotland playing at festivals and arts centers, as well as on radio and television. The duo maintains committed to cultural education, providing folklore and music programs for schools, museums, and libraries throughout the eastern United States and the British Isles. They have released 27 recordings, including both original and traditional songs, Christmas harp recordings, and the "Tapestry" collection, a 6-part instrumental series. Their music has been featured on Turner Broadcasting’s “Portrait of America” series.

Refreshments and gifts will be available for purchase at the New Germany Snack Bar & Gift Shop. For more information, please contact 301-895-5453 or park-new germany@dnr.state.md.us.

Maryland Park Service Reminds Deep Creek Lake State Park Visitors of Weekend Congestion

The Maryland Park Service reminds visitors to Deep Creek Lake State Park that the roads, boat ramp and beach area will be heavily congested September 17-19 due to the TRI-TO-WIN SavageMan Triathlon.

The competition will begin and end at the Deep Creek Lake State Park beach area. Visitors should expect traffic congestion and large crowds at the park from 6 a.m. until late afternoon each day.

Boaters should plan to recreate in other parts of the lake away from the Meadow Mountain Bridge and the shoreline of the State Park. Other segments of the race use the roadways and service road. Visitors who anticipate using the boat ramp this weekend are encouraged to watch for athletes crossing through the ramp area and access the ramp as late in the day as possible.

Over 500 athletes are registered to participate in the event, a fundraiser and awareness campaign for melanoma cancer of the non-profit Joanna M. Nicolay Melanoma Foundation. More information about the event is available at savagemantri.org.

For more information about Deep Creek Lake State Park, call 301-387-5563.

New Germany Catch!

New Germany Lake might be small, but it’s home to some really big fish. Lomand (“Ike”) Brill from Wardensville, WV caught this 38 inch tiger muskie while fishing the lake at New Germany State Park on Saturday, August 20th.  Using only an eight pound test line, he drew quite a crowd as he worked his trophy catch towards the shore.  Tiger muskies are often called “the fish of ten thousand casts” due to the challenge involved with catching one. These hybrid fish are a result of the interbreeding between a true muskellunge and a northern pike. 


 

The photo was taken by Ranger Adam Stachowiak at New Germany State Park.

NRP Urges Safety Over Holiday Weekend

The Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) reminds citizens to make safety a priority during the last holiday weekend of the summer.

“Labor Day is the unofficial transition from summer to fall activities,” said Col. George Johnson IV. “Families will continue to enjoy camping, boating and fishing in the cooler September weather, and, as various hunting seasons begin, we urge everyone to make safety the top priority while enjoying any of these activities.”

Maryland has experienced a usually high number of boating deaths this year and NRP will step up its enforcement in an effort to maintain safe waterways. Over the weekend, NRP will focus their enforcement effort on those activities that contribute to boating accidents, such as alcohol, negligent operation, bow riding and navigational violations.

The cooler weather signals a renewed interest in camping and park recreation during the fall. NRP reminds State Park and campground visitors to obey the law and be courteous to other visitors. Hikers and campers should inform friends or relatives of their plans before they depart, including destination and trip length. This information will assist NRP if campers/hikers do not return on time.

September is the start of several hunting seasons, including dove, early resident goose, squirrel and deer seasons. NRP reminds hunters to always think about safety before entering the field, marsh or woodlands. Remember to always point the muzzle of your weapon in a safe direction and identify your target before pulling the trigger.  Also, always use a fall restraint system when hunting from elevated platforms.  First time hunters are reminded of the requirement to complete a hunter safety course before going hunting.   For more information on hunting safety courses please visit http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/nrp/hunter_education.asp.