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Maryland
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Maryland State Parks

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Casselman Bridge State Park
Casselman Bridge State Park Casselman Bridge © Ben Prepelka
Built in 1813 and stilling standing today.
Baltimore Oriole © stateparks.com
A Baltimore Orioles nest is a tightly woven pouch located on the end of a branch hanging down on the underside.
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CASSELMAN BRIDGE STATE PARK
CASSELMAN BRIDGE STATE PARK
349 Headquarters Lane
Grantsville, Maryland   21536

Phone: 301-895-5453
(4 acres. In Garrett County, east of Grantsville on U.S. Route 40.) Astride the Casselman River just east of Grantsville stands historic Casselman River Bridge. Originally constructed in 1813-14, the fine single arch stone bridge once served the old National Road which linked Cumberland, Maryland with the Ohio River.
History of the Area
The bridge crosses an area named Little Crossings in 1755 by George Washington, then a young military aide on the staff of British Gen. Edward Braddock. Braddock led an army against a French fort near what is now Pittsburgh. Braddock?s army forded the river at Little Crossings and also retreated back over the same spot after being defeated soundly by the French.

Indians settled in the area thousands of years before the first whites settled there in the 1760?s, after the French had been driven out of North America, Joseph Tomlinson erected the first inn several miles east of Little Crossings. The ford and the road that crossed it became a major thoroughfare of westward travelers. By the late 1700s, a mill and farm residences were built near the crossing.

Early in the 19th century, the federal government began an ambitious program of internal improvements which included widespread road construction to help knit together the young republic. The National Road project was a capital improvement program that was aimed at upgrading Braddock?s Road. The Casselman River Bridge was one of many such improvements built along the road.

At the time of its construction, the 80-foot span was the largest of its type in America. It was reportedly made longer than it needed to be in hopes that the planned Chesapeake and Ohio Canal would pass under it. A public celebration was held at the bridge on the day that workmen removed the supporting timbers. To the amazement of many the bridge did not collapse.

Little Crossings became a busy center of commerce and transportation. Stage coaches, wagons, horsemen and foot travelers crossed over the bridge. More buildings appeared, including a store, and another inn, which remains today, as the Penn Alps.

The advent of the railroads in the 1840s resulted in cheaper travel. The national Road went into eclipse but it was revived in the early 20th century when federal aid became available for the road development to accommodate a newer means of transportation ? the automobile.

The bridge continued in service until U.S. Route 40 also became an important east-west artery, just as the National Road had been. In 1933 a new steel bridge joined the banks of the Casselman River. The old stone bridge was partially restored by the State of Maryland in the mid-fifties and is now the center of Casselman River bridge State Park.
Nearby Accommodations
businesss listing main photo
Cottages and Cabins
For those who like to fish for wild trout...this is the place to be Savage River Outfitters is a full line Orvis Dealer and Fly Shop with vacation rentals located on the Savage River in Western Maryland. Call ahead to book a half or full day wade trip or fly fishing instructions.
12.1 miles from park*
Fishing
Anglers can enjoy river fishing, with species like trout and smallmouth bass available. A valid Maryland fishing license is required.



Picnicking
Casselman Bridge State Park offers picnic tables and grills for visitors. It's a perfect spot to enjoy outdoor meals amidst nature.
Things To Do in the Area
businesss listing main photo
Fishing
For those who like to fish for wild trout...this is the place to be Savage River Outfitters is a full line Orvis Dealer and Fly Shop with vacation rentals located on the Savage River in Western Maryland. Call ahead to book a half or full day wade trip or fly fishing instructions.
12.1 miles from park*

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
September 22 wonderful by D. Beachy
park review stars; one to five My great-great-great grandfather helped build this bridge. It takes me back in time to wonder
July 31 Historical by MAL
park review stars; one to five I loved it because it was not only picturesque with wildflowers, a stream, trees and natures beauty, but it was directly related to our Commander in Chief, George Washington, when he crossed the Casselman Bridge during the French and Indian War. The River links to the Yougheghenny River in Pittsburgh, PA which is an hour from my home in Indiana, PA. There is a sign noting the crossing. My husband has taken pictures that we had framed and given to family members that have a rental in Deep Creek, MD. Thank you for making this a landmark.
July 22 Give it some time. by charlie
park review stars; one to five First reaction: Dang, what a bridge. The Casselman Bridge is simply stunning. The picnic grounds surrounding it are wonderful, dated but very well kept. Classic fire places. The little village on the other side of the bridge has a weaver, a blacksmith and a host of other craftshops to visit. The restaurant has a dark nut pudding with vanilla ice cream that is well worth the trip by itself.
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Area Campgrounds
Double G RV Park
76 Double G Drive
McHenry, MD
301-387-5481
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Maryland
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Maryland State Parks

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