Insider Quick Tips

Isn’t it nice to know the “secrets” from the locals!? Here’s a list of some quick tips I’ve learned since becoming a Garrett County resident. Locals and visitors, I hope you will find these helpful...

Bring a hoodie! Even in the warmer months we get some chilly evenings. If you're coming in October and beyond, bring a hoodie and a jacket...and maybe some snow boots, too.
Lakeside Creamery is a BIG favorite, but it closes for the off-season after Autumn Glory in mid-October. Bonus tip: if you want ice cream in summer, evenings could mean very long lines!
Cash is needed at the state parks! At least if there’s no attendant at the entrance, which is only select days a week in the warmer months. $3 per person for in-state, $5 per person for out-of-state and kids in car seats are free. If an attendant is present, credit cards are accepted.
We have a Walmart! Located in Oakland, about 20 minutes south of McHenry. So if you forget to bring a hoodie…
You could also check out High Mountain Sports for a hoodie, along with many other outdoor clothing and gear needs.
Coming through the town of Accident? The speed limit is 25. Go 25.
Visit the Casselman Bakery & Café at the lake in the late afternoon for a chance at half-price donuts!
The Honi-Honi Bar is connected to UNO's and both are family-friendly…mostly during the day (if you're visiting Honi). There’s yard space to hang out on your chairs and blankets in summer, and a pirate ship, giant whale and elephant or the kids to climb.
Don’t miss Tolliver! Make sure you do the full loop at Swallow Falls State Park so you see all three waterfalls, including Tolliver Falls, a very picturesque part of the forest. The full loop is just 1.25 miles.
No Starbucks here, but no worries. We have Traders Coffee House! You could also grab a cup of coffee at Canoe on the Run, Espresso Alley, Moonshadow Cafe, and more.
McHenry Beverage has the biggest wine room I’ve ever seen and Deep Creek Beverage has a super convenient drive-thru. Be sure to tell owners Jim and Peg that I sent you!