About
Savage River Reservoir – South Boat Ramp is the public boat launch off Savage River Road just before the Savage River Reservoir dam in Swanton, at the lower end of the lake. Surrounded by Savage River State Forest, it's the launch for canoes, kayaks and electric-motor boats coming in from the dam side rather than through Big Run State Park.
What You Can Launch
The reservoir allows kayaks, canoes, small paddle boats and electric-motor boats only. Gas motors must come off before launching and gas cans can't ride along, and any motorized boat must be titled and registered through DNR. Swimming isn't permitted anywhere in the reservoir. Water levels change through the year, so be ready to carry your boat several feet at low water. DNR also warns that the reservoir lies in a canyon where high winds can make paddling difficult and dangerous.
About the Reservoir
The Savage River Reservoir was built in 1952 for flood control and domestic water supply for Westernport, and the Upper Potomac River Commission operates it. The shoreline is open to angling, mostly rock and wood structure, and DNR lists smallmouth and largemouth bass, walleye, yellow perch, bluegill, rock bass, crappie and rainbow trout stocked each spring. You'll need a Maryland non-tidal fishing license, plus a trout stamp to keep trout. Ice fishing is allowed with extreme caution.
Nearby
The Savage River Reservoir – North Boat Ramp is the other launch, inside Big Run State Park at the north end of the lake. The Whitewater campsites south of the reservoir mark the Big Savage Hiking Trail – Southern Trailhead, and below the dam you'll find the trout tailwater at Savage River Public Fishing Access and the fly shop at Savage River Outfitters.
Bring a light boat, watch the wind, and enjoy the forest views from the water.
Address
Savage River Rd, Swanton, MD 21561