CEDARVILLE STATE FOREST
The Piscataway Indian Tribe made this section of Southern Maryland its winter camping ground because of the mild climate and abundance of game. Legend says there is an Indian Burial ground in Cedarville, but to date is has not been located. The headwaters of the Zekiah Swamp are located in Cedarville. The swamp extends Southward through Charles County for 20 miles, emptying into the Wicomico River. The Swamp is one mile wide, and serves as a haven for wildlife. The surrounding land is mostly agricultural fields. In colonial times and there after efforts were made to drain the swamp for cultivation. Drainage ditches are still evident. To this day, the swamp remains wooded bottom land. This is a Maryland State Forest. For full information go to the official webpage. (Link on the right side)
Cedarville State Forest, located in Charles County, Maryland, has a rich history that dates back centuries. Here is a brief overview of its history:
Native American Presence:
Before European settlers arrived, Cedarville State Forest and its surrounding areas were inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Piscataway Indians. These tribes would rely on the forests for hunting, fishing, and gathering resources.
Colonial Era:
In the 1600s, European settlers began to establish plantations in the area. Cedarville State Forest was once part of a larger property called Middleton, a plantation owned by former Maryland Governor Thomas Plater. Cedarville was likely named after the large number of cedar trees found in the area.
19th Century:
During the 1800s, the land that is now Cedarville State Forest was used primarily for agriculture. However, due to soil degradation, erosion, and other factors, many of these plantations eventually fell into disuse.
State Acquisition:
In 1933, during the Great Depression, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources acquired the land that would become Cedarville State Forest. This acquisition was part of an effort to create jobs and preserve natural resources.
Civilian Conservation Corps:
After acquiring the land, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a New Deal program, was responsible for developing Cedarville State Forest and many other parks and forests across the country. The CCC worked to create trails, build roads, construct fire towers, and manage the forest's resources.
Recreational Use and Expansion:
Cedarville State Forest has been open to the public since its establishment. Over the years, additional land acquisitions have expanded its size to its current 3,510 acres. The forest offers various recreational activities, such as hiking, picnicking, horseback riding, and hunting (during designated seasons).
Conservation and Management:
Cedarville State Forest is managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources' Forest Service. The forest plays an important role in conserving and managing the state's natural resources, protecting wildlife habitats, and providing recreational opportunities for visitors.
Cedarville State Forest has a long history that encompasses Native American presence, colonial plantations, state acquisition, CCC development, and continued management as a public forest.
Day-UseFishingyes
Huntingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Picnickingyes
Swimming Beachyes
Bike Trailsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
Electric Sitesyes
1. Cedarville State Forest Family Campground: This campground offers 27 campsites for tents and RVs, each with a picnic table, fire ring/grill combo unit, lantern post and parking area. There are also restrooms with hot showers.
2. Group Camping Area: The group camping area is perfect for larger parties or organizations looking to camp together in the forest. It includes four sites that can accommodate up to 25 people per site.
3. Youth Group Camping Areas: These areas are specifically designed for youth groups such as scouts or school trips who want an outdoor experience within the state forest environment.
4. Horsemen's Primitive Campsite: A primitive horseman's camp has been established at Sassafras Ridge which provides direct access onto over nineteen miles of marked trails throughout the park.
5. Cabin Rentals: While not traditional 'camping', there are cabins available on:site if you prefer more solid walls around you while staying overnight!