Woodmont Natural Resources Management Area
Overview
Woodmont Natural Resources Management Area encompasses 3,425 acres of forested ridges, stream valleys, and meadows near Hancock in Washington County, Maryland. Formerly the private Woodmont Rod and Gun Club, the property was acquired by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources in 1995 and opened to the public, preserving one of Western Maryland’s most ecologically diverse landscapes.
The area lies within the Ridge and Valley Province, featuring the distinctive parallel ridges and stream valleys that characterize this geologic region. Unique shale barren habitats harbor rare plant and insect species, while the diverse mix of old-growth timber, successional areas, and open meadows supports thriving populations of deer, turkey, black bear, and ruffed grouse.
Recreation and Activities
Hunting is the primary recreational use, with approximately 2,000 acres designated for year-round public hunting access. White-tailed deer, eastern wild turkey, squirrels, and ruffed grouse are among the game species. Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and birdwatching are popular in the non-hunting seasons and on Sundays when hunting is not permitted.
The historic Woodmont Lodge, built during the private club era, is open for tours by appointment from April through September and hosts an annual open house.
Location and Access
Woodmont NRMA is located at 11761 Woodmont Road, Hancock, Maryland 21750. Access is from Maryland Route 144 and local roads. Hancock is approximately 5 miles east, with Interstate 70 and Interstate 68 providing regional access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee?
Access is free. Hunting requires appropriate Maryland licenses and stamps.
Are there camping facilities?
No camping is available. Nearby Fort Frederick State Park offers camping along the Potomac River.
Insider Tips
Potomac highlands: Woodmont protects 1,200 acres of forest and farmland along the Potomac River in western Maryland. Pro tip: The Potomac River forms Maryland’s entire southern and western border — George Washington surveyed these lands as a young man. Presidential retreat: Camp David (the presidential retreat) is in the Catoctin Mountains of western Maryland.
Best Time to Visit
Fall: Potomac Valley foliage. Spring: Wildflowers and turkey season. Summer: Full recreation. Winter: Deer management hunts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Camp David in Maryland?
Camp David sits in the Catoctin Mountains — chosen by FDR in 1942 as a presidential retreat (originally “Shangri-La”). The mountain location, 60 miles from Washington, offers cooler temperatures and security. Eisenhower renamed it Camp David after his grandson. Historic events include the Camp David Accords (1978, Carter/Sadat/Begin) — the landmark peace agreement between Egypt and Israel.
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