Put your cares behind you, climb the mountains before you, and dive into a whole new world at Deep Creek Lake. Nestled in western Maryland’s serene mountains, you can choose from many Deep Creek Lake vacation rentals when you plan to visit the area. You get four distinct seasons in this mountain climate, each with its own adventures. Dive into summer days bathed in sunshine and glistening waters or hike through the wood in the autumn to enjoy the blazing oranges, golds, and reds of changing leaves. When winter snows blanket the mountains in white, curl up by a fire and leave your cares behind. In the spring, look for new life as wildflowers pop up and baby birds begin to chirp.

1. Deep Creek Lake

If you love to wake up in the morning and run out your door for an invigorating early swim, choose one of the lakeside rentals around Deep Creek Lake’s 62 miles of shoreline. With the incredible scenery of the peaceful lake and surrounding mountains, every day brings a new adventure in the outdoors, whether you’re on the water or in the woods.

2. Fork Run, Maryland

An ideal vacation spot for adrenaline junkies, Fork Run is an adventurer’s home base. It’s close toAdventure Sports Center International, the outdoor lover’s paradise for whitewater rafting, rock climbing, rappelling, and river boarding. The northern part of Deep Creek Lake is only five minutes away, where stunning lake views await.

3. Oakland, Maryland

Oakland is a popular place where vacationing families stay, a mere 10 miles southwest of Deep Creek Lake. Enjoy the town’s antique stores, museums, and restaurants with all the charm of small town America. The historic Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Station, built in 1884, helps preserve the town’s quaint atmosphere.

4. McHenry, Maryland

If you’re looking for winter adventures, McHenry is the best place to stay. It is situated at the northern end of the lake and is the home of Wisp Mountain Park Resort. This is mountain joy for the entire family, whether you want to ski, ice skate, go snow tubing, or just curl up by a fireplace. All modern amenities are easily accessible along Highway 219, or by hopping on a chairlift, you can be at the top of a mountain in minutes.

5. Swanton, Maryland

If you stay in the charming Swanton area just southeast of Deep Creek Lake, you get the genuine rural experience, which is great if you’re coming from Baltimore, Philadelphia, or Washington D.C. for a getaway. Drive to Deep Creek Lake State Park, where the kids can visit the Discovery Center in the park, feed the critters, and enjoy the wilderness surroundings.

6. Friendsville, Maryland

About 14 miles northwest of Deep Creek Lake is the town of Friendsville, which gives visitors access to outdoor adventures in two states. Cross the state line and travel west 14 miles to Coopers Rock State Forest in West Virginia for a day trip in the rugged mountains. Rock climbers love this area, as well as hikers — you may want to come here more than once. Head southeast to visit the historical little town of Accident, where you can see the first house built there. Be sure to ask the locals how it got its name.

7. Deer Park, Maryland

Drive up to Deer Park and stay on the mountaintop to experience the majestic mountain vistas. Enjoy cool temperatures in the summertime, and bask in the clean mountain air. Stroll along Muddy Creek, and explore the natural beauty of Muddy Creek Falls. The town offers a peaceful getaway far from the hustle and bustle of the busy world below.

8. Swallow Falls State Park

When you stay near historical Swallow Falls State Park, be sure to take advantage of the trails through the woodlands and by the tallest waterfalls in the state. Experience the solitude of the forest and the grandeur of the mountains in this vacation paradise.

9. Northeast Side of Deep Creek Lake

If you plan to bring your boat, consider staying at the northeast side of Deep Creek Lake. Some rentals in this area offer private docks and provide amazing views of lake sunsets. Hang out with your family in hot tubs or lakeside fire pits for ultimate relaxation and resting up for another day of lake adventures.

10. Northwest Side of Deep Creek Lake

If swinging a golf club is on your itinerary, stay on the northwest side of the lake. Experience the course that is shaped by the natural landscape, and play against the backdrop of the breathtakingly beautiful forests and hills. You can spend a day at the lake or make your tee time effortlessly when you stay in this area.