Live Like A Local: Summer at Deep Creek Lake

I am a little bit spoiled for having grown up on Deep Creek Lake. We had a house directly on the lake and a big farm we also lived on outside of Oakland, Maryland. While growing up, I often complained that there was nothing to do! As an adult, between all the outdoor activities, events, and small, cool towns nearby, I always have so much fun! Here are my current favorites for a summer adventure on DCL!

Foodie Adventures

My favorite spot is Firefly Farms in Accident. They produce award-winning goat cheese! Their retail store is packed with goodies perfect for a week or weekend at the lake - get their Merry Goat Round; if you like something with a bit more depth, their Cabra La Mancha is amazing. You can order sandwiches at the counter, and they come boxed with slaw, pickle, and chips. The sandwiches are so good that they might be one of the best lunches in Garrett County! On your way back to the lake, swing through the drive-through at Deep Creek Beverage and pick up your beverage provisions for the weekend. I also love getting baked goods, especially fresh doughnuts in the morning from Sugar and Spice, an Amish bakery near Oakland. If you think Krispy Kreme doughnuts are good, you will love these! Be sure to pick up my other favorites - a pumpkin roll or snitz pie.

Have you had pepperoni rolls? They are the state food of West Virginia, but the coal mining connection to Garrett County makes it a good place to grab one. They are usually near the check-out at Arrowhead Market (another good stop to pick up deli sandwiches made to order and to-go items for a day out or small grocery run). Other top mentions: Mountain State Brewing Company, Brenda's Pizzeria (favorite pick is the veggie lasagna and eggplant parmesan that you can purchase in large to-go trays), Ace's, Canoe on the Run. 

Outdoor Adventures

By far and away, the biggest attraction is the lake! I have a lot of family and friends with boats, but sometimes I rent one from Bill's Marine when taking my friends from the DMV out, and I don't want to impose. I generally find a quiet cove, stop, snack, and swim. If you are renting a house, a water trampoline is a really fun way to wear out your kids and enjoy the water; Deep Creek Water Trampolines does rentals. Deep Creek Lake State Park has a nice beach and swim area for kiddos, and the hike to the fire tower is also great when it's a little cooler. PSA - the lake can get really crowded and choppy, especially on weekends, with really bad boaters, so go out during the week and in the mornings for a better experience. Remember to look at the rules of driving a boat before you go out and Remember Red Right Returning – which applies to most of the lake, not just where there are markers!

My favorite spot in Garrett County that I visit over and over again is Swallow Falls State Park. It hosts Maryland's highest falls at Muddy Creek and offers areas where you can cool off and get in the water further down at other falls. I also love going to Potomac State Forest and swimming in the river. It's off the beaten path and rarely has tourists. Did you know you can also do a White Water Rafting course at the Adventure Sports Center International? Also, consider renting a canoe at one of the other state parks - it's a bit more peaceful than kayaking on the lake.

Rainy Day

They happen! On rainy days, I often still like to hike. I also love going to the movies up at Deep Creek because Garrett 8 Cinemas is so much cheaper than in this area. This sounds silly, but I order the kids' snack pack that has a small serving of popcorn, drink, and candy, and it's perfect for a movie! I also always check out a lot of the cute stores in Oakland, grab a latte at Shoofly Java and wander through the Gallery Shop, The Book Shop, Englanders Antique Market, and Cabin Fever. Also, don't miss watching some glass blowing at Simon Pierce!

A Night Out

There isn't much nightlife in Garrett County, but I enjoy Sipside or the Vagabond in Oakland, Maryland, for the live music outdoors, and they are beside each other so you can wander. Firewater is a fun stop but can get really crowded in the summertime. And the Honi Honi Bar was an institution of my younger adult life, pulling up by boat and having drinks outside. I also love a round of mini golf!

Where to Stay

Most people rent a house at Deep Creek - I do this when bringing a big group of friends who won't fit at my family home. But there are a few other options to consider: Swallow Falls State Park has a great camping area, and the facilities are pretty nice. There are also cabin rentals near the park! The Lake Pointe Inn, Blue Moon Rising, and The Suites at Silver Tree are good options if you aren't going with a big group.