Located on the border of Maryland and West Virginia, Cranesville Swamp Preserve is a unique and beautiful nature experience!

Due to a rare combination of water, mountains and temperature, this area is known as a “frost pocket,” meaning that the climate is more reminiscent of one much further North, making this a place unlike any other in the region. 

The preserve features 5 easy to moderate trails less than 2 miles long, including a 1,500 foot boardwalk that allows you to get up close with some of the wettest parts of the bog, as well as over a hundred different species of wildlife that call this area home. For those who enjoy birdwatching, this site is home to a number of rare species, so bring your binoculars and get looking! Hiking boots are recommended for all trails, since the non-boardwalk trails are usually wet and muddy due to the swampy climate of the preserve. In addition to boots, visitors should bring sunscreen and insect repellent while visiting the nature preserve to allow for the most enjoyable experience.