Its 60 foot plunge
makes Muddy Creek Falls Maryland's tallest. This is a small, well maintained
state park with two or three miles of trails but many campsites which feature
modern bathhouses, electric hookups plus a dump station. The river has got to
be Maryland's best whitewater river; rapids and small waterfalls are every few
feet. While early spring is the best time to view waterfalls, we would vote
for early October in the peak of the fall colors; the place is beautiful both
to the eye and ear.
A word about 'Swallow
Falls' after which this park has been named. Swallow Falls is a pair of
cascades extending down the Youghiogheny River in two, 30 yard steps. Each of these
cascades drops about 10 to 20 feet depending upon water flow. Perhaps they
just liked the name 'Swallow Falls' more than 'Muddy Creek Falls' and so named
the park.
From I-68 exit 14
follow US-219 south to Mayhew Inn Road (about 19½ miles). Turn right (west)
and drive the 4½ miles to the intersection of Oakland Sang Run Road (which is
also the end of Mayhew Inn Road). Turn left (south) and about 400 yard from
the intersection you'll see a road on your right. This is Swallow Falls Road.
Follow it to the Park (a little over a mile).
More information and
campsite reservations, phone 301-387-6938 or visit their excellent web site: Swallow
Falls State Park
