Sang Run State Park will officially become Garrett County’s newest state park at the ninth annual Fall Fest on September 30.
The historic Friends Store, election house, farm and waterfront area known as the greens was donated to the state of Maryland almost ten years ago. The staff of Deep Creek Lake State Park have been taking care of it ever since. The land was originally settled by John Friend in 1769 and was the center of activity for the Sang Run community for more than 100 years. The store sold food items and also bought and sold ginseng – which is a root that is prized as an herbal remedy. A shortened version of the word ginseng (Sang) also gives this area it’s unique name.
Efforts of the Maryland Park Service have breathed new life into this area. Hiking trails, gardens, blue bird restoration projects and traditional arts and trades are demonstrated during spring, summer and fall. Plans for the future include the restoration of the 1872 election house.
Visitors can test their navigation skills by trying out the Park Quest. Wednesday through Sunday from 9AM-4PM, GPS units are available at Friends Store. You can travel around the 77 acre farm to discover natural and historic sites by locating designated spots and answering a series of questions.
The park also has access to the Youghiogheny River for rafting and fishing. The waterside pavilion is available for rental too.
Check last minute specials, and stop by Fall Fest to celebrate our new park and enjoy pumpkin carving and decorating, apple cider pressing and tasting, hayrides, sack races, artisans and lots more autumn fun. The festival is from 10AM until 3 PM, and the park dedication happens at 1PM.
Sang Run State Park is located at 3735 Sang Run Road, McHenry. For more info, you can call the Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center at 301-387-7067.