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Dan's Mountain Wildlife Management Area wilderness guide
Wildlife Management Area · MD

Dan's Mountain Wildlife Management Area

Dan's Mountain Wildlife Management Area offers a scenic retreat in Western Maryland, perfect for hiking, hunting, and wildlife viewing.

Wildlife Management Area9,7832+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

9,783

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Dan's Mountain Wildlife Management Area

Dan's Mountain Wildlife Management Area offers a scenic retreat in Western Maryland, perfect for hiking, hunting, and wildlife viewing.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Dan's Mountain Wildlife Management Area is located in Allegany County, Maryland, and spans over a large expanse of woodland that offers a haven of outdoor activities. Geographically set in the Appalachian Mountains, this area consists of dense forests, rugged terrain, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. It plays a critical role in preserving the native wildlife and serves as a habitat for various animals including deer, turkeys, and black bears. The area is historically significant as it reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Appalachian region. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking through miles of trails, exploring the serene landscapes, or taking part in hunting and fishing during designated seasons. The charm of this area lies in its natural beauty and the opportunity to experience true wilderness, making it an appealing destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Dan's Mountain Wildlife Management Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Discover Savage River State Forest★ 7.2⌖ 12 miHiking
Savage River State Forest Headquarters

Discover Savage River State Forest

Explore over 54,000 acres of diverse landscapes at Savage River State Forest. Ideal for hiking, fishing, and camping, this area offers tranquility and natural beauty. Best visited in spring or fall, it's a top spot for those seeking serene wilderness experiences.

Unique Geological Formation at Waffle Rock, Elk Garden, WV★ 6.5⌖ 15 miGeological Observation
Waffle Rock

Unique Geological Formation at Waffle Rock, Elk Garden, WV

Waffle Rock near Elk Garden, WV, features a unique grid-patterned rock formation and easy nearby trails. Ideal for geological observation, fishing, picnics, and photography, it offers calm outdoor experiences best from late spring to early fall.

Geological ObservationView Details→
Scenic Trails Along Cumberland's Lakeside Loop★ 7.8⌖ 16 miHiking
Trail Parking - Lakeside Loop Trail

Scenic Trails Along Cumberland's Lakeside Loop

Explore this loop trail near Cumberland, MD. The scenic route offers diverse terrains, wildlife observation opportunities, and is popular among photographers. Ideal for spring and fall visits.

Green Ridge State Forest: A Hidden Gem★ 8.2⌖ 25 miHiking
Green Ridge State Forest

Green Ridge State Forest: A Hidden Gem

Explore Green Ridge State Forest, a 47,000-acre haven in Flintstone, MD. This secluded area offers moderate trails for hiking and biking, as well as scenic camping spots. Best visited in spring and fall to appreciate its diverse ecosystems and stunning vistas over the Potomac River.

Muddy Creek Falls: A Natural Wonder in Western Maryland★ 8.2⌖ 27 miHiking
Muddy Creek Falls

Muddy Creek Falls: A Natural Wonder in Western Maryland

Explore Muddy Creek Falls, the tallest waterfall in Maryland located near Oakland. This scenic destination within Swallow Falls State Park offers hiking, photography, and wildlife observation. Best visited in spring or fall for vibrant foliage views.

Waterfall Wonders at Swallow Falls Natural Area★ 8.5⌖ 27 miHiking
Swallow Falls Natural Area

Waterfall Wonders at Swallow Falls Natural Area

Explore the 1.25-mile loop at Swallow Falls Natural Area near Oakland, MD. Featuring the stunning Muddy Creek Falls, it's an easy route perfect for hiking, canoeing, and birdwatching. The area offers lush scenery and historical charm, ideal for a spring or fall visit.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Scenic views from Dan's Rock Overlook✦ Rich wildlife habitats offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities✦ Designated hunting areas for game species✦ Secluded areas perfect for peaceful hiking experiences
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Dan's Mountain Wildlife Management Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Dan's Mountain Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Dan's Mountain Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Dan's Mountain Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Dan's Mountain Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Dan's Mountain Wildlife Management Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Dan's Mountain Wildlife Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access, with permits required for hunting and fishing.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Dan's Mountain Wildlife Management Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Dan's Mountain State Park Campground

Located nearby with basic amenities and access to hiking trails.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Dan's Mountain Wildlife Management Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Frostburg
⌖ 5.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Frostburg, Maryland

A charming small town that offers access to diverse outdoor adventures in the scenic landscapes of Western Maryland.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Carpendale
⌖ 7.39 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Carpendale, West Virginia

A quiet rural town offering close access to Appalachian outdoor activities with a focus on hiking, paddling, and nature exploration in nearby forested and river areas.

Spring through FallExplore Town
LaVale
⌖ 7.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

LaVale, Maryland

A gateway town offering easy access to outdoor adventures in the Appalachian Mountains with a mix of hiking, biking, and seasonal activities nearby.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiingExplore Town
Fort Ashby
⌖ 9.30 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fort Ashby, West Virginia

A quiet historic town rich in colonial frontier heritage, offering peaceful river paddling, local hiking, and nearby natural escapes for outdoor enthusiasts.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Canoe
⌖ 9.50 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Canoe, West Virginia

A quiet, rural community offering peaceful access to rivers and forests for paddling and hiking enthusiasts seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Cumberland
⌖ 9.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cumberland, Maryland

A historic river town offering diverse outdoor adventures set against the scenic Appalachian foothills and rich transportation heritage.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Dan's Mountain Wildlife Management Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.