About
Cunningham Swamp Wildlife Management Area is a 328-acre tract of public land in central Garrett County that takes in most of Cunningham Swamp, a wetland with habitat for bog-related plants and animals. It lies on the west side of MD 495 between Bittinger and Swanton, just north of the Western Maryland 4-H Center, and is open to hunters, birders and anyone who wants a quiet walk at the edge of a mountain bog.
Wetland, Thickets and Woods
Maryland DNR manages the area as a mix of wetland, alder and viburnum shrub thickets, open fields, upland forest and scattered forest stands, on mostly flat to gently rolling ground. Wildlife openings are planted and maintained for feeding and brood-rearing habitat. Species you may see include white-tailed deer, black bears, ruffed grouse, American woodcock, wild turkeys, beavers, muskrats, wood ducks and Canada geese. Birders come for alder flycatchers, Nashville warblers and golden-winged warblers.
Getting In
- Main trail: a marked parking area just off MD 495 leads to a short, low-angle walk suited to many ages and abilities, with a small rise partway along for a view over the swamp.
- Boardwalk: a little farther south on MD 495, a second parking area serves an accessible boardwalk that runs a short distance into the swamp.
- From I-68: take MD 495 south from Grantsville; the area is about 11 miles south of Grantsville and 3 miles south of Bittinger.
Before You Go
The area is generally open year-round. Waterfowl, deer and bear hunting is allowed in season with the usual licenses and stamps, and trapping needs a permit, so check the hunting calendar and wear bright colors in the fall. DNR's Mt. Nebo Wildlife Office handles questions and offers a downloadable map.
Patient, quiet visitors tend to see the most wildlife here, so take your time on the trail.
Address
9001 Bittinger Rd, Swanton, MD 21561