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ATTENTION VISITORS:
We apologize that our office is periodically closed as we are out in the field.

We encourage calling prior to visiting the office to ensure staff will be onsite.

The main phone number voice messages will be answered during business hours.

Forest information, activity specific brochures, & trail guides can be found on the inside of our covered porch through our main office door. Fuelwood permits can be placed in the lockbox inside our office covered porch, to the right of the 2nd entry door.

Office Hours:
Monday and Wednesday, 7:00am to 3:30pm
Days and times are subject to change based on staffing.
Other days/hours may be available by calling the headquarters for scheduling.

​​Information

The Potomac-Garrett State Forest, situated in southwestern Garrett County in Western Maryland, has the distinction of being the birthplace of forestry conservation in Maryland. The generous donation of 1,917 acres by the Garrett Brothers in 1906 not only serves as the foundation of the Garrett State Forest but is the root of both Maryland's present Public Lands system and Forest Service. Mountain forests, streams and valleys make up the nearly 19,000 acres of this State Forest.

Potomac-Garrett State Forest is predominantly a second growth mixed hardwood forest dominated by mixed oaks, sugar and red maples, black cherry, basswood, ash and birch. The geography of this area provides for a wide range of growing conditions from the harsh, wind and ice swept ridge tops of Backbone Mountain to the deep rich slopes above the North Branch of the Potomac River. Much of the State Forest lands contain excellent quality hardwoods.