Swallow Falls State Park in Oakland, Maryland is one of the most beautiful state parks I have been to. Dogs are not permitted in the day use area or on the Canyon Trail between the Saturday before Memorial Day and Labor Day. Dogs must be on leash. This is a state park I highly recommend on the “off season” when dogs are permitted! We did the Swallow Falls Canyon trail, which is a one mile loop showcasing multiple waterfalls. There are some really cool rock formations and plenty of spots for both you and your dog to swim. The forest floor was so lush with ferns and moss that it reminded me of Olympic National Forest in Washington.
Where To Stay:
If you visit Swallow Falls State Park, I recommend staying 15 minutes away at The Lodges at Sunset Village in McHenry. They have designated dog friendly cabins, some of them with hot tubs. There are shared fire pit spaces. It is located right across from Deep Creek Lake and even offers a boat dock if you wanted to bring your boat with you. Max and I slept in a very comfortable king-sized bed and had access to a small kitchenette with a mini fridge, microwave, and sink. The room had an electric fireplace. It was very cozy and comfortable.
Where to Eat:
If you stay at The Lodges at Sunset Village, you will receive a 10% off coupon to eat at Pine Lodge Steakhouse, so close you could walk to it. While you cannot eat on the upper deck with everyone else, they do set aside some picnic tables in the back of the restaurant where you will be served. The chef was even willing to make Max a special “side steak” just for him!
After eating a delicious steak dinner at Pine Lodge Steakhouse, make sure you head over to Lakeside Creamery for dessert! They have a special sundae just for dogs that includes whipped cream and a treat! You can eat your ice creams overlooking the lake. If you have a boat, there is a dock located here as well so you could arrive on your boat. The staff allowed Max to come inside while I ordered and were very friendly and doting on him.
