New Germany State Park Campground

new germany state park camping

For Marylanders seeking a tranquil escape into the heart of the Allegheny Mountains, New Germany State Park Campground offers a truly picturesque and inviting experience. Located near Jennings, MD, this charming park, often called the "Switzerand of Maryland," provides a serene setting where the beauty of nature takes center stage. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent under the stars, settle into a cozy cabin, or enjoy the convenience of an RV site, New Germany State Park Campground caters to a variety of camping styles, making it a perfect destination for families, couples, and solo adventurers from across the state.

New Germany State Park itself spans 2,174 acres, with the focal point being the beautiful 13-acre New Germany Lake. This small, pristine lake is ideal for swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating, offering a peaceful alternative to larger, busier waterways. The park is renowned for its dense hemlock forest, diverse hiking trails, and its reputation as a premier cross-country skiing destination in the winter, making it a year-round outdoor haven. The campground is designed to complement this natural setting, providing a comfortable and accessible base from which to explore all that this Western Maryland gem has to offer. For locals in search of a quiet, family-friendly retreat in a stunning mountain environment, New Germany State Park Campground promises a refreshing and memorable experience.

New Germany State Park Campground is conveniently located at JVMJ+VG, Jennings, MD 21536, USA, nestled in the heart of Garrett County, Western Maryland. This strategic location places it within the serene beauty of the Allegheny Mountains, while remaining relatively accessible for Maryland residents. The park is situated approximately 10 miles south of Grantsville and 18 miles north of Oakland, offering easy access from major routes such as Interstate 68.

Driving to New Germany State Park Campground is generally straightforward, with well-maintained roads leading directly to the park entrance and campground areas. While you'll feel completely immersed in nature upon arrival, the park's proximity to nearby towns like Grantsville and Oakland means that essential services, groceries, and dining options are just a short drive away if needed. This balance of secluded natural beauty and practical accessibility makes it an ideal destination for families and groups, allowing for a genuine wilderness experience without feeling completely isolated. The scenic drive through Western Maryland to reach the park itself often serves as a beautiful prelude to the relaxing outdoor adventure that awaits.

• Traditional Campsites: The campground offers 39 traditional campsites suitable for both tents and RVs. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring for campfires and cooking.

• Rustic Cabins: For those seeking more comfort, New Germany State Park offers 12 rustic log cabins that can be rented year-round. These cabins typically include beds, basic furnishings, electricity, and heating, but usually no private plumbing (bathrooms are typically shared at a central facility).

• Yurts: The park also features yurts, which combine the camping experience with some comforts. Yurts are circular, tent-like structures on platforms, often with electricity and beds, but requiring campers to bring their own linens.

• Full Service Bathhouses: Clean and well-maintained bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers are available within the campground loops, providing essential amenities for all campers.

• Electric Hookups: Many campsites offer electric hookups, catering to RVs and campers who require power for their stay.

• Dumping Station: An RV dumping station is available for camper use, ensuring convenient waste disposal.

• Camp Store/Park Office: A park office often serves as a small camp store during peak season, offering firewood, ice, and basic camping necessities.

• Boat Rentals (Seasonal): During the warmer months, visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, and rowboats to explore the calm waters of New Germany Lake.

• Swimming Beach (Seasonal): A designated swimming beach on New Germany Lake is open during the summer season, providing a safe and refreshing area for water activities.

• Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic tables and grills are available throughout the park, including many near the lake, perfect for day visitors or campers seeking a change of scenery for their meal.

• Pet-Friendly Areas: Pets are permitted in designated camping loops and cabins, ensuring that furry family members can join the outdoor adventure (leash rules apply).

• Online Reservation System: Campsites, cabins, and yurts can be reserved online through the Maryland DNR reservation system, making planning your trip convenient.

• New Germany Lake: The 13-acre spring-fed lake is the centerpiece of the park, offering pristine waters ideal for swimming, fishing (trout, bass, sunfish), and non-motorized boating. Its calm nature makes it perfect for families and beginners.

• Historic CCC Cabins and Area: Many of the park's structures, including some of the rustic cabins and the lodge, were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, adding a rich historical dimension to the park's charm. The CCC Lake House and the old Dining Hall are notable examples.

• Extensive Hiking Trails: New Germany State Park boasts over 10 miles of multi-use trails that wind through dense hemlock forests, along streams, and to scenic overlooks. Trails range from easy walks around the lake to more challenging hikes, suitable for all skill levels.

• Cross-Country Skiing Destination: In winter, New Germany transforms into one of Maryland's premier cross-country skiing destinations. It offers approximately 10 miles of groomed trails, making it a unique highlight for winter sports enthusiasts. Ski rentals are available at the park office.

• Nature Center/Visitor Center: The park has a nature center that often provides educational exhibits and programming, helping visitors learn about the local flora and fauna.

• Year-Round Recreational Opportunities: Unlike many campgrounds that close for the winter, New Germany offers year-round activities, including ice skating and ice fishing when conditions allow, alongside its famous cross-country skiing.

• Scenic Allegheny Mountain Setting: Surrounded by the beauty of Western Maryland's Allegheny Mountains, the park offers a naturally stunning backdrop for all outdoor activities, with crisp mountain air and lush greenery.

• Proximity to Deep Creek Lake Area: While offering a quieter atmosphere, New Germany State Park is still within a reasonable driving distance to the popular Deep Creek Lake area, providing access to additional dining, shopping, and entertainment options if desired.

• Unique Yurt Camping Experience: The availability of yurts provides a comfortable and slightly more adventurous alternative to traditional tent or cabin camping, appealing to those looking for something different.

As a Maryland State Park campground operated by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), New Germany State Park Campground offers its value through its consistently maintained facilities, diverse camping options, and access to a wide array of year-round recreational activities, rather than frequent promotional discounts. The pricing for campsites, cabins, and yurts is set by the state and is generally very competitive, making it an affordable option for quality outdoor experiences in Maryland.

However, Maryland residents and frequent visitors to state parks can benefit from specific offerings that enhance overall value:

• Maryland State Parks Passport: An annual pass provides unlimited day-use entry to Maryland's state parks and forests, along with discounts on state-operated concessions and boat rentals. While this doesn't directly reduce camping fees, it offers significant savings for those who visit state parks regularly.

• Off-Peak Season Rates: While not a promotional "offer" per se, camping and cabin rental rates often shift between peak season (typically Memorial Day to Labor Day) and off-peak season, with potentially lower prices during the spring, fall, and winter months. These seasons also offer a more serene experience with fewer crowds.

• Family-Friendly Pricing: The park's commitment to providing accessible outdoor recreation for families is reflected in its reasonable rates for campsites and cabins, making a mountain getaway feasible for many Maryland households.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on current rates, cabin/yurt rental periods, and any specific seasonal considerations, it is always best to check the official Maryland DNR website or contact the park office directly before making your reservation.

For reservations, inquiries about campsite or cabin availability, trail conditions, or any other questions about New Germany State Park Campground, please use the following contact details:

• Address (New Germany State Park Office): 3450 New Germany Rd, Grantsville, MD 21536, USA (While the specific GPS coordinate points to a location within the park near Jennings, the official park office for inquiries is in Grantsville, MD, which manages the entire park.)

• Phone: (301) 895-5453

• Maryland DNR Online Reservations: Reservations for campsites, cabins, and yurts can be made conveniently online through the Maryland DNR's official COMPASS reservation system.

• Email: newgermany.statepark@maryland.gov

It is highly recommended to contact the New Germany State Park office directly for specific details, especially when planning a trip during peak seasons or for cabin/yurt rentals, which tend to book up quickly. They can provide the most current information on park conditions, special events, and any specific rules or regulations that might impact your stay.

For Maryland locals, New Germany State Park Campground stands out as an exceptional and highly suitable destination for a wide range of outdoor adventures. Its convenient location in Garrett County, nestled within the picturesque Allegheny Mountains, offers a genuine escape into nature that is easily accessible from many parts of the state. This means less time traveling and more time enjoying the fresh mountain air and serene surroundings, making it perfect for weekend getaways or longer family vacations.

What truly makes New Germany appealing to Marylanders is its versatility and year-round appeal. Whether you prefer traditional tent camping, the comfort of an RV with electric hookups, or the unique experience of a rustic cabin or yurt, the campground offers diverse options to fit every preference and group size. This variety ensures that everyone, from seasoned campers to those new to the outdoors, can find their ideal retreat. The presence of full-service bathhouses adds a touch of comfort to the rustic experience, making it particularly suitable for families with children or those who appreciate modern conveniences.

Beyond the excellent camping facilities, the park itself is a treasure trove of activities. The calm, 13-acre New Germany Lake is perfect for safe swimming, leisurely boating with rentals, and peaceful fishing – a stark contrast to more crowded waterways. The extensive network of hiking trails offers opportunities to explore the beautiful hemlock forests and discover scenic vistas, catering to both casual strollers and avid hikers. In the winter, the transformation of the park into a cross-country skiing haven provides a unique and exciting local option for snow enthusiasts, truly making it a four-season destination.

The historical charm of the Civilian Conservation Corps-built structures adds a layer of heritage to the natural beauty, allowing locals to connect with a significant part of Maryland's past. Furthermore, the park's commitment to environmental education, often through its nature center, provides valuable learning opportunities for all ages. New Germany State Park Campground offers a tranquil, family-friendly, and activity-rich environment that provides an invaluable escape for Maryland residents seeking to relax, explore, and create lasting memories in the heart of our beautiful Western Maryland mountains. It’s truly a gem that allows locals to experience the "Switzerland of Maryland" right in their own backyard.

New Germany State Park Campground

JVMJ+VG, Jennings, MD 21536, USA