Things to Do in McHenry, MD This Summer
May 27, 2025
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With sunshine, sparkling lake waters, and mountain breezes – McHenry, Maryland, transforms into an outdoor haven when the weather warms up. Nestled in the scenic mountains of Garrett County and wrapped around the shores of Deep Creek Lake, McHenry offers a refreshing escape with numerous opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and family fun. If you're planning a summer getaway or looking for local activities, you've come to the right place. Here are some of our favorite things to do in McHenry this summer!
Deep Creek Lake is Maryland's largest freshwater lake, and it's the heart of summer activity in McHenry. Getting out on the water is a quintessential part of the experience.
● Rent a Boat: Local marinas like Lake Life Boat Rentals or Bill's Marine Service offer various options to get you on the water:
1) Pontoon boats are great for relaxing cruises with family and friends.
2) Speedboats allow for waterskiing and tubing adventures.
3) Jet skis provide thrilling rides across the lake.
● Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore quiet coves and shorelines at your own pace. Rentals are widely available, offering a fantastic way to enjoy the scenery and get some exercise.
● Visit a State Park Beach: Deep Creek Lake State Park features a sandy swimming beach perfect for families, complete with lifeguards during peak season. It's an ideal spot for sunbathing, picnicking, and cooling off on hot days.
● Go Fishing: Anglers will find plenty of opportunities to fish for bass, trout, pike, and more. You can rent a boat or find a quiet spot along the shore. Remember to check Maryland fishing regulations and obtain the necessary licenses.
While the lake is a major draw, the surrounding landscape offers incredible adventures for mountain lovers. Put on your hiking boots and discover the natural beauty of the area.
● Visit Swallow Falls State Park: Just a short drive from McHenry, this park is a must-see. It features Maryland's highest free-falling waterfall, the stunning 53-foot Muddy Creek Falls. Easy-to-moderate hiking trails, like the popular 1.4-mile Canyon Trail, wind through lush forests, alongside the Youghiogheny River, and past several beautiful waterfalls.
● Hike at Deep Creek Lake State Park: Beyond the beach, this park offers numerous hiking trails through forests and meadows. The Meadow Mountain Trail provides excellent views of the lake. The park also houses the Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center, offering educational exhibits about the local environment – great for families.
● Explore Other State Parks:
1) Herrington Manor State Park: Features a 53-acre lake, swimming, boat rentals (canoes, kayaks), and lovely wooded trails.
2) Sang Run State Park: Offers a glimpse into history with the "Friend's Delight" homestead dating back to the early 1800s, plus 2.5 miles of pleasant hiking trails.
Looking for an adrenaline rush or unique family activities? McHenry delivers excitement for all ages.
● Wisp Resort's Summer Playground: Famous for winter sports, Wisp Resort transforms into an adventure hub in summer.
1) Ride the thrilling Mountain Coaster down the slopes.
2) Soar through the air on zip lines.
3) Play a round of golf on their championship courses (Lodestone & Fantasy Valley).
4) Enjoy scenic chairlift rides for panoramic views.
5) Try your hand at disc golf on their expansive courses.
● Whitewater Excitement: The Adventure Sports Center International (ASCI) features a unique, man-made whitewater rafting course atop the mountain. It offers controlled, exciting rapids suitable for various skill levels, with guided tours available. You can also find guided trips on nearby natural rivers like the Youghiogheny.
● Climbing and Active Play:
1) Monkey Business Adventure Park: Challenge yourself on aerial ropes courses and ziplines with varying difficulty levels.
2) Deep Creek Fun Zone: Offers mini-golf, go-karts, laser tag, an arcade, and the Deep Creek Mini Ninja Factory obstacle course for active fun.
Summer vacation isn't just about high energy; it's also about unwinding and enjoying the local culture.
● Local Food and Drinks:
1) Visit the Mountain Fresh Farmers Market (typically held in Oakland and McHenry) for fresh local produce, baked goods, crafts, and more.
2) Explore local breweries like Mountain State Brewing Company (known for wood-fired pizzas) or Short Story Brewing.
● Shopping and Local Crafts: Browse charming shops like Schoolhouse Earth for unique gifts and home decor, or watch artisans at work at the Simon Pearce glassblowing outlet. Stroll through the serene Deep Creek Lavender Farm (check bloom times and open hours).
● Restaurants and Dining: McHenry and the surrounding area offer diverse dining options, from casual lakeside grills like the Honi-Honi Bar to more upscale experiences like Ace's Run Restaurant & Pub. Enjoy fresh, local ingredients at places like MoonShadow.
Summer in McHenry is brought to life by lively events and festivals. While specific dates can vary year to year, here are some highlights to look for:
● Stage Wisp Concert Series: Enjoy free live music every Wednesday evening during July and August at Wisp Resort, often accompanied by a local farm and art market.
● Fire on the Mountain Fireworks Display: Celebrate Independence Day (around July 4th) with a spectacular fireworks show over the lake, usually launched from Marsh Mountain at Wisp.
● Deep Creek Lake Birthday Celebration: In 2025, Deep Creek Lake celebrates its 100th Birthday! Look for special events, including a Birthday Bash scheduled for July 19, 2025, at the Garrett County Fairgrounds.
● Garrett County Agriculture Fair: Typically held in late July/early August, experience a classic county fair with livestock shows, rides, food, and entertainment.
● Deep Creek Lake Art, Wine & Beer Festival: Usually held just after Labor Day in early September, this popular event features regional artisans, wineries, breweries, and live music.
With so many amazing things to do in McHenry, MD, you might find yourself needing extra space for all your summer gear. Whether it's kayaks, paddleboards, bicycles, camping equipment, or even needing a place to store your winter skis and snowboards until next season, StoreEase provides convenient and reliable self-storage solutions right near your favorite McHenry destinations.
We offer:
● Secure Units: Our facility features security measures to give you peace of mind.
● Variety of Sizes: Choose the perfect unit size for your needs, from small lockers to large spaces.
● Easy Access: Convenient access hours make grabbing your gear simple whenever adventure calls.
Focus on enjoying everything McHenry has to offer this summer, knowing your belongings are safe and accessible with StoreEase. Rent a StoreEase storage unit in McHenry or call us today to find out more about our storage options!