South Savage Mountain Natural Area

South Savage Mountain Natural Area protects more than 2,000 acres of steep, forested mountainside in Savage River State Forest, between the southern end of Big Savage Mountain and Savage River Reservoir. It is reached from a parking area on Savage River Rd near Swanton and is suited to experienced hikers, birders and naturalists who are happy to explore without marked trails.

Old-Growth Forest

DNR has identified nearly 800 acres of old-growth forest here, documented under the department's criteria of large trees, varied forest structure, and standing and fallen dead wood. Chestnut and white oaks dominate the upper slopes, with northern red and white oaks lower down. The area is managed as a designated State Wildland.

Instead of permanent streams, the mountain holds springs, seeps, vernal pools and seasonal streams, and a less acidic band of soil near the Savage River supports several rare plants.

Rare Plants and Wildlife

More than a dozen rare plants and animals live on South Savage Mountain. DNR lists the cerulean warbler, which nests in the tallest trees, the bobcat, the Appalachian cottontail, and Porter's reedgrass, an endangered grass whose only documented population on Maryland's Allegheny Plateau is here. Black bear, eastern red bats, amphibians and brook trout in nearby streams round out the list.

Before You Go

• There are no facilities and no marked trails; DNR notes camping sites at the trailhead.
• Parking is on the right about 4 miles along Savage River Road from its start at MD 135 near Bloomington.
• Expect steep, rugged terrain, stream crossings and ticks, and remember that hunters use the forest in season.
• DNR asks visitors to follow Leave No Trace principles.

Big Run State Park, at the reservoir's northern end, is the nearest spot with picnic and boating facilities. Call Savage River State Forest headquarters for current conditions before you go.

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