Herrington Manor State Park | Hagerstown

Information

Landmark: Herrington Manor State Park
City: Hagerstown
Country: USA Maryland
Continent: North America

Herrington Manor State Park, Hagerstown, USA Maryland, North America

Herrington Manor State Park is a 539-acre public recreation area located in western Maryland, approximately 15 miles west of Hagerstown.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a 53-acre lake, Herrington Lake, with a sandy beach area. Surrounding the lake are mature deciduous forests, primarily oak and hickory species. The terrain is moderately hilly.

Location & Access Logistics

Access to Herrington Manor State Park is via Maryland Route 51 (Old National Pike). The park entrance is located approximately 15 miles west of Hagerstown, MD. Parking is available in designated lots throughout the park, including near the beach and main picnic areas. Public transportation options are not available directly to the park.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Herrington Manor was originally a private estate. The park was established as a state park in 1964. The lake was created by damming the Youghiogheny River tributary. The area is part of the Appalachian Mountain region, characterized by its temperate deciduous forest ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include swimming at the designated beach area (seasonal), boating (non-motorized and electric motors only), fishing in Herrington Lake, and hiking on 10 miles of marked trails. The park also offers picnic facilities and a playground.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the beach and picnic areas. Shaded picnic shelters are present. Cell phone signal (4G) is intermittent within the park. No on-site food vendors are present; visitors should bring their own provisions.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for swimming and beach activities is from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, during daylight hours. For hiking, spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer moderate temperatures and visible foliage. Early morning or late afternoon provides optimal lighting for photography.

Facts & Legends

A local anecdote suggests that the original manor house on the property was built by a wealthy industrialist who sought a secluded retreat. The park's trails are known for their moderate elevation changes, making them suitable for a range of hiking abilities.