We started going to Deep Creek Lake, Maryland in 2019. It’s a two-hour drive from Frederick County, Maryland but feels like a world away from the rest of the state. It quickly became an annual family tradition where all six of us spend some great quality time together, and it is one that we look forward to. Game nights, fire pits, waterfalls, mountains, and lake life – it doesn’t get much better than Deep Creek.
Life is better at the lake.
Unknown
I don’t have an itinerary this time around since our itinerary changes each year but I do have a list of Deep Creek favorites and must-dos. If I missed any of your Deep Creek favorites, please let me know! We’re always looking to try out new spots.
| Favorite | Why |
|---|---|
| Fire on the Mountain 4th of July fireworks at Wisp Resort | Easy parking, beautiful displays, and the ability to watch from a boat on the lake |
| Rent a cabin with a lodge feel. Our favorite rentals are VRBO, Taylor Made Vacations or Railey Vacations. | Deep Creek is nestled in the mountains and having a rental decorated in lodge decor makes it feel authentic. We’ve had good experiences with all three rental places but VRBO does seem to be slightly cheaper. We found that Lake Access is the way to go for our family and it’s more affordable for us this way. |
| Wisp Resort Activities | There’s a lot happening at Wisp – from the mountain coaster to aerial adventures and the manmade White Water Rafting training facility is located here. |
| Swallow Falls State Park | This is a must-do. Muddy Creek Falls is 53′ tall (Maryland’s tallest) and is accessible from the parking lot but don’t miss the hike to Tolliver Falls – a great swimming hole! |
| Herrington Manor State Park | If you like to kayak, this state park doesn’t allow motorized boats, making it a safer and smoother spot to kayak than on Deep Creek Lake. |
| Deep Creek Funland | Fun for our entire family with many activities. |
| Honi-Honi | A Deep Creek tradition. Pull up in a boat, or car, and have a beverage. Cheers! |
| Bill’s Marine Service Boat Rentals | There are a few boat rentals in Deep Creek but Bill’s is the only one we’ve tried. We’ve rented a speedboat and a pontoon the day of – be sure to get in line early with cash in hand because they only take cash! |
| Deep Creek State Park beach entrance and public boat launch | Swimming spot if your house rental doesn’t have water access or a dock slip. |
| Deep Creek Lavender Farm | July is a great time to visit the lavender farm and pick some lavender or enjoy some lavender ice cream. |
| Spruce Forest Artisan Village | The girls and I love art – this cool little spot has free art classes for kids all summer long. |
| Brenda’s Pizzeria | Busy pizza spot located in a strip mall with great pizza! |
| Hilltop Fruit Market/Home of Candyland | This is a must-do with kids. Fill up your bag with penny candy weighed by the pound. |
| Glazed and Confused Donuts Food Truck | Fun spot with unique donut creations in a unique size. |
| Lakeside Creamery | Another must-do and Deep Creek tradition. |
| Mountain State Brewing | We heard they had great flatbread pizzas but what really sold me was the live music and spectacular views. I ended up liking Brenda’s Pizzeria better for pizza but the ambiance here can’t be beaten! |
| Bear Creek Traders | Don’t miss this shop for the best Deep Creek souvenir shopping! |
Lucky Ladybug Travel Blog 