The Deep Creek Blog

Don't Miss Art in the Park

Don't miss the 9th Annual Art in the Park at the Deep Creek Lake State Park this weekend, 10-5 on July 12 and 10-4 on July 13.  The free event features over forty artists, great Dixieland music, food, roving naturalists and art demonstrations.  Travel by boat or car to this event.  The festival is sponsored by the Western Garrett County State Park Volunteers and the Garrett County Arts Council. I'll be there helping my dad, Robert Yonke, so stop by and say hello if you're attending. 

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Boat Trailers at Deep Creek Lake State Park

Please note that only those camping at Deep Creek Lake State Park are allowed to leave their boat trailers overnight in the boat trailer parking lot at the Park.  These trailers will be register upon camper check in at the campground office. 

The Rangers at the Park have noted that the overnight lots are very full and many people are leaving trailers in the lot without permission.  The park recommends that people contact D&W Storage at Double G Ranch on Mosser Road at 301-387-5481 as they offer space by the week or month.  If you offer or know of another location for temporary boat trailer storage, please email info@deepcreekblog.com and the information will be added to this post. 

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Deep Creek Lake State Park Hosts 9th Annual Art in the Park

Forty-plus artists will show and sell their work at the 9th Annual Art in the Park in one of Western Maryland’s most magnificent settings – Deep Creek Lake State Park at the Discovery Center, July 12-13. Arrive by boat, car or foot and enjoy free admission. Dixieland music, food, and naturalist programs are featured in addtion to the great art.

“Art in the Park is an event for the whole family to enjoy,” said Fred Schaich, President of the Western Garrett County State Park Volunteers, Inc. (WGCSPVI) “Hands-on activities and delicious food will delight children and parents alike. We are proud to offer such programs that can bring family, fun and education together.

All artwork on display is available for purchase. The variety of artistic and handmade pieces at the event include: jewelry, photography, wood turned items, native wildflowers and habitat boxes, pottery, fused glass, original artwork, wood painted furniture, tatting, hand-woven baskets, wool rugs, handmade soaps, children’s books w/ the author and much more.

For more information about this event and other programs offered at the Discovery Center, please call 301.387.7067 or visit www.dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/western/discovery.html 

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Great American Backyard Campout Day in Maryland

Today is the Great American Backyard Campout Day in Maryland.  Children and families are encouraged to embark on an outdoor adventure either in their favorite state park, a private campground or in their own backyard.

“Summer months can be the best time for children and their families to enjoy the outdoors together,” said Governor O’Malley. “State parks and forests all across Maryland offer affordable recreational activities for people of all walks of life and Great American Campout Day creates another great reason for friends and families to learn and play together outdoors.”

“Overnight camping is a great way to immerse yourself in Maryland’s natural wonders,” said Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary John R. Griffin. “Last year, 735,465 campers took advantage of the affordable, accessible overnight facilities at state parks and forests.”

Maryland’s state parks, forests and other public lands offer more than 2,340 affordable campsites and 129 cabins.  Camping reservations can be made online at www.dnr.maryland.gov or by calling 1-888-432-2267. 

For a complete list of state parks that offer camp sites and facilities, visit http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/campinginfo.html.  For more information about Great American Campout Day visit www.backyardcampout.org.

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Fire Tower Tours at Deep Creek Lake State Park

The Fire Tower at Deep Creek Lake State Park is now open for tours on Sundays from 10am until noon.  Join park staff and volunteers as they guide you through the newly renovated tower.  Learn about Maryland's fire history and enjoy great views of the lake.  The tour is $2.00 per person which is used to keep the tower open and maintained.  Tours meet at the fire tower and are open for two hours.   Tour participants must be four feet or taller to climb the steps to the top. 

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Celebrate Summer! Guided Hike at New Germany State Park

Join the New Germany State Park staff for an interpretive hike along New Germany's trails tomorrow from 9 to 11 am.  Pass through charming stream valleys and enchanting hemlock forest.  Hikers will learn about the parks heritage and diversity of the forest.  They day use service charge applies ($2 in state/$3 out of state).  Call 301-895-5453 for further information.

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Herrington Manor Bio Blitz

Take part in Bio Blitz at Herrington Manor State Park from 6am Saturday to 12am Sunday.  The Bio Blitz is a search for the various species of plants and animals that live within the park.  There will be volunteers leading hikes to locate and identify diverse species.  Plant, amphibian, bird and reptile hikes mist-netting bats and electro-shocking fish are some of the wild activities taking place throughout the day.  Learn what is living in your own backyard.  Families are encouraged to attend this event.

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Short Piece on Swallow Falls

The Philadelphia Examiner has a short article today on Swallow Falls State Park. 

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Lots Happening at New Germany State Park

Patty Manown Mash sent me information this week regarding all of the events happening at New Germany State Park this season.  There are many fun activities planned at the park, leading me to think I probably should have a dedicated "State Park" page on this site.  Until that happens, I'll update here in my posts.  Coming up this week:

Sat., June 7 - 7:30 p.m.  Campfire Program:  Roots, Ruts, and Rivulets:  Can Trails Be Sustainable?
Melissa McCormick, Park Ranger at New Germany will give a presentation on common trail problems and ways to build and maintain a more sustainable trail system while still maintaining a natural character.  Ages 10 to adult.

Sun., June 8  - 2:00 p.m.  Bear Aware
Fascinated with the region’s largest mammal?  Learn all about the black bear in this engaging presentation.  All ages.

Mon., June 9  - 3:00 p.m. Junior Rangers – Basic
Kids can complete the first level of the Junior Rangers program and earn a patch by attending this session, completing a fun activity book, and participating in a service project.  Ages 8-14.  There is a $2 service charge per session.

Wed., June 11 - 1:00 p.m. Observing Wildlife
You may be thinking, “I just never seem to see any animals.”  Change things with this short but eye-opening workshop!  Ages 12 to adult.

Sat., June 14 - 7:00 p.m.  Campfire Program:  All You Ever Wanted to Know About Birds of Prey
Floyd Presley will share his knowledge of birds of prey and provide an unforgettable demonstration of a hawk’s skills.  All ages.

Church Service: A non-denominational church service is held each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. in the Nature Center Amphitheater.

Programs are subject to change without notice.
All programs meet or begin at the Schoolhouse Nature Center unless otherwise noted.
For more information, call 301-895-5453.

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June at the Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center

The Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center Schedule for June is out and it is packed full of events.  With lake season swinging into gear, you'll find events happening at the Center all week long.

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