Big Run State Park

10368 Savage River Road
Swanton, MD 21561

301-895-5453

Situated at the mouth of the Savage River Reservoir, Big Run State Park is the perfect base camp from which to enjoy the surrounding Savage River State Forest​. Campers at Big Run have easy access to fishing, boating, hiking or hunting opportunities. Autumn visitors have a spectacular view of the changing colors on the surrounding mountain ridges. Become familiar with the park's primitive conditions before your visit.

Trails

The lower trailhead of the Monroe Run Trail is located adjacent to campsite 62 at Big Run State Park. A small parking area is available.

The Monroe Run Trail is open to hikers only – no mountain bikes or ATVs.

Camping

Family Camping
Big Run has 29 primitive campsites available year-round.

Sites 60-75 are wooded, with stone dust camping pads. Sites 78-90 are in an open grassy field

Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. A self registration station is located at the bulletin board at the intersection of Big Run Road and Savage River Road. Camp site guests may set-up camp anytime after 3 p.m. Check-out time is 1 p.m.

Pets on a leash are permitted in any of the campsites.

Big Run Pavilion

The Big Run Pavilion is available year-round for weddings, reunions, and other large group events. It can accommodate up to 75 people for events between 8:00 A.M. and sunset. Alcohol is permitted with a special permit.

Picnicking

Picnic tables are available in the Day Use area of the park, along Big Run Road at the intersection with Savage River Rd. These tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Savage River Reservoir
Big Run State Park sits at the northern end of the Savage River Reservoir, a popular spot for fishing and non-motorized boating.

Boating
There is a boat ramp between campsites 83 and 84 at Big Run State Park. Lake levels vary throughout the year, so be aware that you may have to carry your boat several feet. Only electric motors or non-motorized boats are permitted. Gasoline motors must be removed before launching your boat.

Fishing
Fishing is permitted year-round with a non-tidal fishing license. Fishermen may find walleye, large mouth bass, crappie, yellow perch, bluegill, catfish, *******, and trout. There is a brief lake closure each spring when trout stocking begins. A trout stamp is required to possess trout.

No Swimming
Swimming is not permitted anywhere in the Savage River Reservoir.​​

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