Big Run State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Big Run State Park is at the mouth of Savage River Reservoir in Swanton, Maryland. Native Americans once used this region for hunting. Because the park is in the Western Appalachian Plateau, it has a mountain climate of cold winters and mild, humid summers. The park is a popular destination for white water rafting and hiking. In addition, the Savage River State Forest is close to the park, offering more opportunities for hiking, nature watching, mountain biking, hunting, and winter sports.
Spring 24–57 F
Summer 52–78 F
Fall 29–70 F
Winter 16–37 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Big Run State Park
Big Run State Park Campground offers 23 primitive RV campsites that can accommodate RVs up to 29 feet long. A picnic table and fire ring come with each camping spot. There are restrooms near the Monroe Run Pavilion and the self-registration station. Some of the campsites are in an open field, and the others are in a wooded area. The Monroe Run Group Campsite can fit up to 25 people and features electricity, a stone fireplace, a large shelter, and three adjoining campsites.
What to Do at
Big Run State Park
With beautiful views of Savage River Reservoir and Appalachian forest, Big Run State Park is perfect for a meal at one of the picnic tables throughout the park. You can reserve a picnic pavilion that accommodates up to 100 people. Experiencing the park from a boat is also a must.
Fishing
Fish that you can catch at Savage River Reservoir include yellow perch, bluegill, largemouth bass, trout, walleye, crappie and suckers. A boat launch at Big Run State Park allows you to venture onto the water for boat fishing. The park stocks the water body with trout in spring and briefly closes access to the lake during the stocking process.
Nature Watching
Birds to try spotting during your stay include red-tailed hawks, great-horned owls, broad-winged hawks, screech owls, indigo buntings, great blue herons, and songbirds. Other wildlife in Big Run State Park are minks, white-tailed deer, raccoons, bobcats, and black bears. You may also see ducks and grouse along the reservoir's edge.
Flora
Oak, hickory, and native hardwood trees fill the forest at Big Run State Park. In April, you can enjoy the sight of trout lilies and spring beauties in bloom. Admire the trilliums and lady slippers in May and June, and look for the blooming cardinal flowers, bee balm, and rhododendrons in July.
Hiking
The Monroe Run Trail meanders along and back and forth over a mountain stream for five miles. Trees along the hike include eastern hemlock, birch, and oak. Take a look in the stream to see if you can spot sculpins or dusky salamanders.
Boating
You can launch an electric boat and non-motorized boats on Savage River Reservoir. There are 230 acres of water to drift on while you relax and soak in the enchanting scenery of this Appalachian region. Several times a year, the area below the Savage River Dam is open for Class V whitewater rafting for those who want a thrill.
How to Get to
Big Run State Park
To reach Big Run State Park, you need to drive a few miles on small non-highway roads. It's located at 10368 Savage River Rd, Swanton, MD 21561, a few miles off of Interstate 68. From Westernport, a nearby town where you can buy food and supplies, travel on MD-135 W and turn right onto Savage River Road. After 6.1 miles, you need to stay right to continue on Savage River Road. You need to stay right again after 2.5 miles, and within 1.9 miles, you'll reach the state park.
Entering Big Run State Park
Big Run State Park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset. It's free to enter and park at Big Run State Park. If you're camping at the park, then you need to sign yourself in at the self-registration station at the intersection of Savage River Road and Big Run Road. Parking is available near the Big Run Pavilion, Monroe Run Shelter, and the Youth Group Campsite.
Big Run State Park Entry Fee : $0.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Big Run State Park
Spring and fall, when the park is at its most colorful, are the best times to visit for the natural scenery. Summer is also a good time to visit when the weather is the warmest for boating.
Waterfowl, songbirds, and raptors are found in Big Run State Park. You may also see minks, raccoons, white-tailed deer, bobcats, and black bears.
There are RV camping spots in Big Run State Park, but all of them are primitive. If you want electricity, you have to reserve the group campsite.
You need to reserve a camping spot at Big Run State Park if you plan on staying for more than one night. It costs $6.25 to make a reservation.
Pets are welcome at this state park, and they are allowed on most of the hiking trails. However, they must be on a leash, and you are responsible for picking up after them.