About
Monroe Run Group Campsite is a reservable group camping area at Big Run State Park near Swanton, at the northern end of Savage River Reservoir. It holds up to 25 people and is built around a Civilian Conservation Corps shelter, which makes it a natural fit for family reunions, scout troops, church groups and clubs who want to camp together in Savage River State Forest.
The Shelter and Sites
The centerpiece is a large shelter built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, with a stone fireplace and electricity, giving your group a covered place to cook, eat and gather whatever the weather. Three adjoining campsites spread out around it for tents and sleeping, so everyone stays together without crowding a single pad.
Big Run itself started in the 1930s as one of the recreation areas the CCC developed in Maryland, and the park sits where Monroe Run meets Big Run. The Monroe Run hiking trail begins in the park, and the reservoir offers boating and fishing close by.
Booking and Access
The site is reservable year-round through the Maryland Park Service reservation system at parkreservations.maryland.gov or 1-888-432-2267. Leashed pets are allowed at Big Run campsites.
Plan ahead for 2027: beginning in May 2027, Big Run Road will close near its intersection with Savage River Road for up to four months while a culvert is replaced with a bridge. During that work, Monroe Run will be reached only via New Germany Road and will have no electric service, so groups should plan lighting and cooking without power.
If you're coordinating a larger group, the park office can help with questions before you book.
Address
GVW4+RC, Swanton, MD 21561