Discover Deep Creek Lake - Maryland's Mountain & Lake Escape

Day 1: Arrival & Deep Creek Splashdown

• Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Arrival & Check-in: Arrive in the Deep Creek Lake area and check into your accommodation. Popular choices include rental homes in the McHenry area or resorts like The Suites at Silver Tree or The Lodge at Wisp, offering convenient access to both the lake and attractions. Grocery Stop: Head to a local grocery store like Peapod’s or Shop ’n Save (located near the major US-219 intersection) to stock up on snacks, drinks, and breakfast essentials for your stay.
  • Practical Tip: Confirm your accommodation’s check-in time beforehand.
  • Distance: Varies based on lodging, typically 5-15 minutes from major attractions.
  • Cost Estimate: Groceries $50-$100.
  • Time Needed: 1.5-2 hours.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Deep Creek Lake State Park Fun: Drive to Deep Creek Lake State Park (approx. 10 minutes, 5 miles from the McHenry commercial area). Spend the afternoon enjoying the expansive public beach, swimming in the designated areas, and utilizing the playground. Discovery Center Visit: Explore the Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center located within the park. It offers engaging, hands-on exhibits about local wildlife, the lake’s ecosystem, and history, perfect for all ages.
  • Practical Tip: Bring towels, sunscreen, hats, and water. Arriving after the midday rush can sometimes make parking easier.
  • Cost Estimate: State Park Entrance Fee: ~$3-$7 per vehicle (varies by residency).
  • Time Needed: 3-4 hours.
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Casual Lakeside Dinner: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Options include Brenda’s Pizzeria (2445 Deep Creek Dr) for delicious pizza and subs, or Archie’s Barbeque (2447 Deep Creek Dr) for hearty BBQ, both offering a casual atmosphere.
  • Dining Recommendation: Brenda’s Pizzeria.
  • Cost Estimate: Dinner $40-$70.

Day 2: Wisp Thrills & Mountain Views

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Wisp Resort Adventures: Head to Wisp Resort (located directly off US-219, just a 5-10 minute drive from most lakefront accommodations). Start your day with an exhilarating ride on the Mountain Coaster, winding through the trees. Follow it up with challenges at the Aerial Adventure Park or a round of Disc Golf.
  • Practical Tip: Book Wisp activities online in advance to secure preferred times and potentially save money. Wear closed-toe shoes suitable for active play.
  • Cost Estimate: Mountain Coaster ~$18-$25 per person. Aerial Park ~$40-$50 per person for a 2-3 hour session. Disc Golf ~$10-$15 per person (rentals available). Budget $70-$100 per person for a couple of activities.
  • Time Needed: 3-4 hours.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Lunch & Lake Activity: Enjoy a casual lunch at Wisp, perhaps at DC’s Bar & Restaurant, or explore other casual dining options. Afterward, head to a public lake access point like McHenry Cove for some lakeside relaxation. Kayak/Paddleboard Rental (Optional Splurge): Consider renting kayaks or paddleboards from a local outfitter like Bill’s Outdoor Center (20768 Garrett Hwy) or from Deep Creek Lake State Park for an hour or two on the water.
  • Practical Tip: If renting watercraft, call ahead for availability and reservations.
  • Cost Estimate: Lunch $30-$50. Kayak/Paddleboard rental ~$25-$40 per hour/half day per person.
  • Time Needed: 3-4 hours (including lunch).
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Refined Dinner & Mini Golf: Treat yourselves to a slightly nicer dinner at Ace’s Run Restaurant & Pub (290 Marsh Hill Rd), located at The Lodge at Wisp, offering American cuisine with pleasant views. Family Fun Center: After dinner, head to The Deep Creek Funzone (19875 Garrett Hwy) for some friendly competition with mini-golf and arcade games.
  • Dining Recommendation: Ace’s Run Restaurant & Pub.
  • Cost Estimate: Dinner $70-$120. Mini Golf ~$10-$15 per person.

Day 3: Waterfall Wonders & Farewell Deep Creek

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM) Swallow Falls State Park Hike: Drive to Swallow Falls State Park (approx. 20-25 minutes, 12-15 miles from the McHenry area). Embark on the popular 1.25-mile loop trail that winds along the Youghiogheny River, leading you past the magnificent Tolliver Falls, Maryland’s highest free-falling waterfall, Muddy Creek Falls, and the beautiful Swallow Falls.
  • Practical Tip: Wear sturdy hiking shoes as trails can be uneven. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking. Pack water.
  • Cost Estimate: State Park Entrance Fee: ~$3-$7 per vehicle (varies by residency).
  • Time Needed: 2.5-3.5 hours (including travel and hiking).
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 3:00 PM) Lakeside Lunch & Souvenir Stop: Enjoy a final Deep Creek Lake lunch at The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille (15219 Garrett Hwy) for casual American fare with a lake view from their deck, or grab a quick bite and ice cream from Lakeside Creamery (2700 Deep Creek Dr). Souvenir Shopping: Before hitting the road, make a quick stop at local shops like Bear Creek Traders (2443 Deep Creek Dr) or Lake Life (2458 Deep Creek Dr) to pick up a Deep Creek memento.
  • Practical Tip: Plan to check out from your accommodation before heading to Swallow Falls or allow time to return and pack up after lunch.
  • Cost Estimate: Lunch $30-$50. Souvenirs $20-$50.
  • Time Needed: 1.5-2 hours.
• Evening (Departure) Homeward Bound: Depart from Deep Creek Lake with cherished family memories. Depending on your travel distance, plan for any necessary dinner stops on your way home. If you’re staying late, you can grab one last casual dinner near the lake before a late departure.
  • Consideration: Pack some snacks for the drive if your journey is long.
  • Cost Estimate: Final meal (if desired) $30-$50.

Day 1: Arrival & Lakeside Embrace

• Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Arrive in the Deep Creek Lake area and check into your pre-booked accommodation. We recommend a rental home with lake access for a truly immersive experience (accommodation not included in daily budget breakdown, but accounts for the majority of the overall $2,000-$3,500 budget). After settling in, head out for a grocery run at Arrowhead Market (20092 Garrett Hwy, Oakland) or Shop ’n Save (14187 Garrett Hwy, Oakland), approximately a 15-20 minute drive from most lake-front properties, to stock up on essentials and picnic supplies for the week.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Ease into your mountain and water escape with a relaxed afternoon at Deep Creek Lake State Park. Drive approximately 10-20 minutes to the park (898 State Park Rd, Swanton). Enjoy swimming at the sandy beach, relaxing by the water, or rent paddleboards or kayaks from the Discovery Center within the park for a gentle introduction to the lake. Costs for rentals typically range from $30-$50 per hour for two people. Entrance fee: $5/vehicle (MD residents) or $10/vehicle (out-of-state).
• Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Savor your first Deep Creek Lake dinner. For a casual and local favorite, head to Brenda’s Pizzeria (24450 Garrett Hwy, McHenry), known for its delicious pizzas and relaxed atmosphere. Expect to spend $40-$70 for two. Alternatively, enjoy the rustic charm and craft brews at Mountain State Brewing Co. (6670 Sang Run Rd, Swanton), where a meal for two might cost $50-$80.

Day 2: Exhilarating Water Adventures

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:30 PM) Dive into more active lake exploration. Rent a pontoon boat for a half-day (4 hours) from Bill’s Marine (19748 Garrett Hwy, Oakland) or Deep Creek Marina (1888 Deep Creek Dr, Swanton). Navigate the lake, discover hidden coves, stop for a swim in the deeper waters, or simply cruise and enjoy the panoramic views. A half-day pontoon rental typically costs $300-$400. Alternatively, for a higher adrenaline rush, rent jet skis for an hour or two ($150-$200 per hour for two).
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a well-deserved lakeside lunch. Ace’s Run Restaurant & Pub (20808 Garrett Hwy, Oakland) offers a diverse menu with great views, where lunch for two will be around $40-$70. After lunch, perhaps browse some local shops or relax back at your rental.
• Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Indulge in a more upscale dining experience at Dutch’s at Silver Tree (567 Glendale Rd, Swanton). This restaurant offers exquisite American cuisine with beautiful lake views. Reservations are highly recommended. Expect to spend $100-$150 for a memorable dinner for two. After dinner, consider a peaceful walk along the lake shore.

Day 3: Waterfall Wonders & Forest Trails

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Embark on a scenic drive (20-25 minutes from central Deep Creek) to Swallow Falls State Park (2470 Swallow Falls Rd, Oakland). Hike the popular 1.25-mile loop trail (allow 1.5-2 hours) to witness Maryland’s highest free-falling waterfall, Muddy Creek Falls, along with Tolliver Falls and the majestic Swallow Falls. The natural beauty here is breathtaking. Park entrance fee: $5/person (out-of-state) or $10/vehicle (out-of-state) during peak season.
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM) Continue your forest adventure with a short 15-minute drive to Herrington Manor State Park (227 Herrington Ln, Oakland). This quieter park features a serene 53-acre lake. Rent a rowboat or kayak (seasonal, $15-$25/hour for two) and paddle on the tranquil waters, or enjoy a swim at their beach. There are also easy walking trails around the lake. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the water, or grab a quick bite from a local deli in Oakland.
• Evening (6:30 PM onwards) For a taste of Garrett County’s culinary scene, consider The Manor Steakhouse (8371 Garrett Hwy, Oakland), a classic steakhouse located about 20-25 minutes from the lake. Dinner for two could range from $80-$120. If you prefer to stay closer to the lake and enjoy a lively atmosphere, head to the Honi-Honi Bar (19748 Garrett Hwy, Oakland) for casual bar food, drinks, and often live entertainment. ($50-$80 for two).

Day 4: Mountain Thrills & Panoramic Vistas

• Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Get your adrenaline pumping at Wisp Resort (296 Marsh Hill Rd, McHenry), a quick 5-10 minute drive. Experience the thrill of the Mountain Coaster ($20-$25 per ride per person) as it winds through the trees. For panoramic views, take a scenic ride on the Chairlift ($15-$20 per person). If you’re feeling adventurous, try the High Five Zipline Tour ($60-$70 per person, allow 1.5-2 hours) for an aerial perspective of the resort and lake. Choose 1-2 activities to fit your energy and budget.
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 4:30 PM) After the mountain thrills, enjoy a more relaxed afternoon. Visit the Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center (898 State Park Rd, Swanton), located within Deep Creek Lake State Park. It offers free exhibits on local wildlife, history, and ecology. Afterwards, treat yourselves to a well-deserved cool down at Lakeside Creamery (2700 Deep Creek Dr, McHenry), famous for its homemade ice cream ($15-$25 for two).
• Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Conclude your adventure with a delicious dinner at Firewater Kitchen & Bar (20074 Garrett Hwy, Oakland). This modern American restaurant offers a chic yet comfortable atmosphere with excellent food, ideal for a memorable final evening. Expect to spend $80-$120 for two.

Day 5: Farewell Views & Local Flavors

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Enjoy a leisurely morning. Grab coffee and pastries from Trader’s Coffee House (1050 Deep Creek Dr, McHenry) for a final taste of local charm. Take a last stroll along the lake or simply relax at your accommodation, savoring the peaceful ambiance of Deep Creek Lake. Pack up and prepare for check-out.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM onwards) Check out from your rental. Before departing the area, consider a stop at Penn Alps Restaurant & Craft Shop (6802 National Pike, Grantsville), about a 25-30 minute drive east from Deep Creek Lake. Enjoy a hearty country-style lunch ($40-$60 for two) and browse their extensive collection of local artisan crafts and goods, a perfect opportunity for souvenirs. Afterwards, begin your journey home, carrying memories of your “Mountain & Water Escape.”