About
Savage River Reservoir – North Boat Ramp is the public boat launch inside Big Run State Park, at the northern end of the Savage River Reservoir in Swanton. It sits in the park campground between campsites 83 and 84, reached from Dry Run Road and Savage River Road, and it's the put-in for paddlers, campers and anglers starting from the Big Run end of the lake.
Paddling and Boating Rules
The reservoir is open to canoes, kayaks, small paddle boats and electric-motor boats only. Gas motors must be removed before you launch, gas cans aren't allowed in the boat, and motorized boats must be titled and registered through DNR. Swimming is not permitted anywhere in the reservoir. Lake levels vary through the year, so you may have to carry your boat several feet to reach the water, and DNR notes that the reservoir sits in a canyon where high winds can make paddling difficult and dangerous.
Fishing From the North End
Anglers fish here year-round with a Maryland non-tidal fishing license, and a trout stamp is needed to keep trout. DNR lists walleye, smallmouth and largemouth bass, crappie, yellow perch, bluegill, rock bass, catfish and stocked rainbow trout, and the lake closes briefly each spring when trout stocking begins. Ice fishing is permitted, with extreme caution because water levels can change sharply. The reservoir was built in 1952 for flood control and to supply water to Westernport.
Nearby
The Savage River Reservoir – South Boat Ramp is the other launch, off Savage River Road just before the dam. Below the dam, Savage River Public Fishing Access covers the trout tailwater and Savage River Outfitters runs a fly shop, and the Big Savage Hiking Trail – Southern Trailhead starts at the Whitewater campsites near the reservoir.
Check the wind before you push off, and enjoy a quiet, motor-free paddle on the lake.
Address
Savage River Rd, Swanton, MD 21561