About
Maryland 4-H Environmental Education & Camping Center is a University of Maryland Extension camp at 243 4-H Camp Road in Swanton, a short drive from Deep Creek Lake. Accredited by the American Camp Association, it spreads across more than 1,100 acres of private and public land around a large lake, and it serves youth groups, families and anyone planning a gathering in the mountains.
The Public Section
Part of the property is open to the public, generally from spring through fall. Around the lake you'll find hiking trails, fishing, biking, wildlife viewing and wide mountain views, which makes it a quiet alternative to the busier spots around the lake. Extension notes the mountain air here can run up to ten degrees cooler than lower elevations and metro areas.
Renting the Camp
The private section is where camp life happens, and it can be reserved for retreats, reunions, staff trainings, outdoor school, women's groups and weddings. The camp holds up to 160 people and includes:
- Cabins for overnight lodging and modern bath houses
- A commercial-grade kitchen, with optional kitchen staff serving three meals a day plus an evening snack
- Several meeting spaces and Wi-Fi throughout
- Swimming, boating, fishing, a challenge course, shooting sports and sports fields
Two full-time maintenance staff are on site during the day and on call around the clock, and two entrance gates can be closed to keep outside traffic out during your event.
Planning a Visit
Extension publishes a rate sheet, facility directory and camp map for groups, and the Garrett County 4-H office can walk you through availability.
Address
243 4 H Cp Rd, Swanton, MD 21561