Swallow Falls State Park is located in Garrett county, the western most county in Maryland. One of the biggest attractions that this state park has to offer are the Muddy Creek Falls. At roughly fifty feet high, these falls are some of the largest on the East coast.

The falls can be found where Muddy Creek meets with the Youghiogheny River, where it flows eventually to the Chesapeake bay. The Youghiogheny is also one of the most prominent kayaking rivers in the county. The river is for expert kayakers, as there are numerous hazards including waterfalls, swift rapids, underwater hydraulics and very rough terrain. Injuries and deaths have occurred on the river.

Swallow Falls State Park also has the distinction of having the only remaining old growth hemlock forest in Maryland, the majority of which have long since been cut down for timber. There are several trails through the forest including a five and a half mile trail that links Swallow Falls with Herrington Manor, the neighboring state park. There are sixty-five campsites available for overnight stays.