Deep Creek Lake is a man-made lake located in Garrett County, Maryland. Created by the Youghiogheny Hydroelectric Company in the 1920s, the lake is a popular tourist attraction throughout the year.
It may be at its most breath-taking in the spring as vegetation begins blooming and wildlife wakes up after a long winter’s rest. With 69 miles of shoreline and about 3,900 acres of water coverage, there is always something to do here in the spring!
March is an excellent time for a visit as it isn’t yet crowded with visitors, but April is when things really begin the transition from winter to spring. By May, things are in full swing, and ready to jump into the summer season.
Here are some of the fun Deep Creek Lake spring activities you can enjoy.
1. Samantha’s Beat the Blues Bash & Cornhole Tournament
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The Beat the Blues Bash & Cornhole Tournament is one of the area’s most exciting activities to kick off spring and say goodbye to winter. The tournament play has two tournaments that involve a double elimination.
There are fun activities for every age group, even if you don’t want to play cornhole. There is a little something for everyone, including raffles, a silent auction, side games, and inflatables. It is a great time for everyone that lets you enjoy the early spring weather in the area!
2. Wisp’s Resort
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Perhaps one of the most popular attractions, Wisp’s Resort has activities and things to do all year. In the spring, it is time for the spring to transition from the skiing and snow fun of the winter to focus on activities like mountain biking, disc golf, and archery.
The resort is also well-known for its golf course and provides various other things to do, such as a mountain coaster, gem mining, scenic chairlift rides, pontoon boat tours, and watersports. There are also plenty for those seeking adventure, including whitewater rafting, a canopy tour, a zip line, and a challenge course.
Wisp’s also holds various events such as live music, making it the perfect getaway. It is a huge attraction and often gets extremely busy. The spring is one of the best times to visit since the winter crowd thins out, and the summer visitors are not yet here. You can enjoy attractions that are overwhelmed during peak times if you pick this time of year to visit.
3. Firefly Farms & Creamery
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Firefly Farms & Creamery is a working cheesemaking farm. Cheese from the farm comes from cow’s and goat’s milk sourced from local providers. You can visit the farm to see the process of handmaking the cheese up close!
Of course, there is a store on-site where you can purchase the cheeses made on the farm. The shop also sells local wines, which pair well with the many cheese varieties for a delicious activity.
4. Deep Creek Lake State Park
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Deep Creek Lake Park showcases the lakefront in its full glory. You can enjoy all types of lake activities, including wakeboarding, fishing, boating, jet skiing, and kayaking. If you don’t have your own boat, there are rentals available. Swimming is also allowed in two areas with sandy beaches.
You can bike or hike the 20 miles of trails. With over 1800 acres, there is plenty to explore. You can even spend the night here in the camping facilities, which include 112 sites for a lake vacation. You may even get lucky and witness a wedding on-site since the park is a popular area for wedding ceremonies.
5. Spruce Forest Artisan Village
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The Spruce Forest Artisan Village is like a step back in time. The village is free to visit and provides tours regularly.
You will see artists making their goods, tour historic buildings, such as Stanton’s Mill and Compton’s One-Room Schoolhouse. The village also holds various events throughout the spring, such as an Easter egg hunt and quilling classes.
6. Youghiogheny River
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The Youghiogheny River is a must-see option for Deep Creek Lake spring activities if you love adventure. It features class IV and V rapids and thrills, including Swallow Falls, Gap Falls, and the Suckhole.
The area is about 2800 acres with 38 miles of shoreline. There is plenty of room for everyone, even if you don’t want to brave the rapids. You can enjoy jet skiing, boating, fishing, and camping.
7. New Germany State Park
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New Germany State Park is found between Meadow Mountain and Big Savage Mountain. It has a dense state forest and a small lake. You can hike, bike, fish, and swim here.
This is another place to stay in the area if you enjoy camping. The park has 12 cabins of various sizes available for rental. You can also stay on one of the many campsites, including pet-friendly options and heated bathhouse access.
Do note this is a very remote area without cell phone service. The Lake House does have an emergency phone available.
8. The Discovery Center
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The Discovery Center is beside Deep Creek Lake Park. It offers a wonderful learning experience for children and adults.
You can explore the animals in the area and the natural environment through hands-on exhibits and activities. There are regular events and projects throughout the season. This is a perfect stop if you find yourself here on a rainy day.
9. Taste of Garrett
Held at Garrett Trails, Taste of Garrett is an annual tradition where you can explore tasty offerings. Vendors come from all over to tempt you with their goods, including favorite classics and new inventions.
The best part is that admission includes all the food you can eat. Plus, all proceeds go towards maintaining the Garrett trail system, so you are giving back to the area and enjoying tasty treats!
10. Murder Mystery Dinner Party
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Held at Dutch’s at Silver Tree, this is a unique way to have a good time while enjoying Deep Creek Lake spring activities. Proceeds from the evening benefit HART for Animals.
This is a dress-up event for adults only. You’ll enjoy the murder mystery where you can act as a detective to figure out who committed the crime. As part of the package, you will also get hors-d’oeuvres, a buffet, dessert, and beverages, including beer and wine.
Spring at Deer Creek Lake
With so many activities at Deer Creek Lake, you’re sure to find something that suits your springtime interests. From camping to cornhole, Deer Creek Lake offers fun for the whole family.
