Cities and Towns in Garrett County, Maryland
Founded in 1872, Garrett County is one of 23 counties in the state of Maryland. Historically, Garrett County was formed from part of Allegany County. The city of Oakland is the county seat. With FIPS code of 23, Garrett County has a population of 28,702 and area of 656 square miles (1,699 km²).
List of all cities in Garrett County, MD alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Accident, MD | 21520 | 301/240/227 |
Bittinger, MD | 21522 | 301/240/227 |
Bloomington, MD | 21523 | 301/240/227 |
Crellin, MD | 21550 | 301/240/227 |
Deer Park, MD | 21550 | 301/240/227 |
Friendsville, MD | 21531 | 301/240/227 |
Grantsville, MD | 21536 | 301/240/227 |
Hutton, MD | 21550 | 301/240/227 |
Jennings, MD | 21536 | 301/240/227 |
Kitzmiller, MD | 21538 | 301/240/227 |
McHenry, MD | 21541 | 301/240/227 |
Mount Lake Park, MD | 21550 | 301/240/227 |
Mountain Lake Park, MD | 21550 | 301/240/227 |
Oakland, MD | 21550 | 301/240/227 |
Sang Run, MD | 21541 | 301/240/227 |
Shallmar, MD | 21538 | 301/240/227 |
Swanton, MD | 21561 | 301/240/227 |
Major Cities and Towns in Garrett County, Maryland
Oakland
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.63 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,830 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 21550
- Latitude: 39.4081° N
- Longitude: 79.4064° W
Location and History
Oakland, the county seat of Garrett County, is located in the southwestern part of the county, near the West Virginia border. Founded in the mid-19th century, Oakland grew as a result of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, which made the town a key stop for travelers heading west. The town’s location near the Appalachian Mountains gave it a role in the lumber and coal industries. Oakland is known for its historic Victorian architecture, preserved downtown area, and connection to outdoor recreation, particularly in nearby Deep Creek Lake. Today, Oakland serves as a cultural and commercial center for the region, attracting tourists who are drawn to its historical charm and proximity to nature.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Oakland is part of Garrett County Public Schools, with Southern Garrett High School serving the area. Major landmarks include the Garrett County Historical Museum, which showcases local history, and the Oakland B&O Museum, located in a historic train station that reflects the town’s railroad heritage. The annual Autumn Glory Festival celebrates the area’s fall foliage with parades, arts and crafts, and live music. Nearby Deep Creek Lake, Maryland’s largest freshwater lake, offers year-round outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and skiing. The Oakland Historic District, with its collection of Victorian-era homes and buildings, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Grantsville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.96 square miles
- Population: Approximately 789 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 21536
- Latitude: 39.6965° N
- Longitude: 79.1525° W
Location and History
Grantsville is located in the northern part of Garrett County, along the National Road (U.S. Route 40), approximately 25 miles north of Oakland. Founded in the early 19th century, Grantsville developed as a stop along the historic National Road, which was the first major highway in the United States. The town’s strategic location made it a key spot for travelers and freight transport heading west. Grantsville was named after U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant. Today, Grantsville retains its historical significance, with many preserved buildings and sites that reflect its past as a transportation and trading hub. The town serves as a gateway to outdoor recreation in the surrounding mountains and state parks.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Grantsville is served by Garrett County Public Schools, with students attending Northern Garrett High School in nearby Accident. Major landmarks include the Casselman River Bridge, a historic stone bridge built in 1813, which was once the longest single-span stone bridge in the world. The Spruce Forest Artisan Village, located near the bridge, is a collection of historic log cabins where artisans demonstrate traditional crafts. Grantsville is also home to the Penn Alps Restaurant & Craft Shop, a popular stop for visitors exploring the National Road. The nearby Casselman River State Park offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, and picnicking.
Mountain Lake Park
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.43 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,302 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 21550
- Latitude: 39.4015° N
- Longitude: 79.3814° W
Location and History
Mountain Lake Park is located just south of Oakland, in the heart of Garrett County. The town was founded in the late 19th century as a resort community by the Mountain Lake Park Association, which sought to create a summer retreat for residents of nearby cities. The town quickly became a popular destination, known for its cultural events, including concerts, lectures, and religious gatherings. Mountain Lake Park attracted notable figures, such as President William McKinley and baseball legend Babe Ruth. Although its resort days have faded, the town retains its historical charm and serves as a quiet residential community, with many Victorian-era homes still standing.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mountain Lake Park is part of Garrett County Public Schools, with students attending Southern Garrett High School in nearby Oakland. Major landmarks include the Mountain Lake Park Historic District, which features numerous Victorian homes and buildings that reflect the town’s history as a summer resort. The Hermitage, a historic building once used as a hotel and gathering place, is now a private residence but remains an important piece of the town’s heritage. The nearby Deep Creek Lake State Park offers a range of recreational activities, including boating, hiking, and skiing. The town’s proximity to Oakland allows residents to enjoy both its historical attractions and outdoor amenities.
Accident
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.49 square miles
- Population: Approximately 307 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 21520
- Latitude: 39.6276° N
- Longitude: 79.3203° W
Location and History
Accident is a small town located in northern Garrett County, about 10 miles north of Oakland. The town’s unusual name comes from a surveying mishap in the late 18th century, when two separate land grants overlapped, leading to the “accident” that resulted in the town’s name. Accident developed as a small farming community and has remained largely rural throughout its history. The town’s location near the Youghiogheny River and Deep Creek Lake makes it a quiet but convenient spot for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities. Despite its small size, Accident has a close-knit community and is known for its picturesque landscape.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Accident is served by Garrett County Public Schools, with Northern Garrett High School being the main educational institution for local students. Major landmarks include the Drane House, one of the oldest buildings in Garrett County, which offers a glimpse into the life of early settlers. The town’s annual Homecoming celebration brings residents together for parades, music, and family activities. The nearby Deep Creek Lake area provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and skiing, while the Youghiogheny River offers whitewater rafting and kayaking for adventure enthusiasts. The Garrett County Fair, held in nearby McHenry, is a major event that draws visitors from across the region.
Friendsville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.91 square miles
- Population: Approximately 447 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 21531
- Latitude: 39.6631° N
- Longitude: 79.4047° W
Location and History
Friendsville is located in the northwestern part of Garrett County, along the Youghiogheny River, near the Pennsylvania border. The town was founded in the early 19th century by the Friends family, Quakers who settled in the area and helped establish the community. Friendsville grew as a lumber and rafting town, with the Youghiogheny River serving as a key transportation route for logs. The town’s economy was also supported by agriculture and small-scale industry. Today, Friendsville is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, particularly whitewater rafting and kayaking on the Youghiogheny River, which attracts adventure-seekers from across the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Friendsville is part of Garrett County Public Schools, with Northern Garrett High School located nearby in Accident. Major landmarks include the Youghiogheny River, which is a prime destination for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and fishing. The Friendsville Heritage Museum preserves the town’s history and offers exhibits on local industry, including logging and river transport. The nearby Swallow Falls State Park, with its scenic waterfalls and hiking trails, is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The annual Friendsville Days celebration brings the community together for parades, music, and family-friendly events, reflecting the town’s strong sense of community.
Deer Park
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.44 square miles
- Population: Approximately 416 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 21550
- Latitude: 39.4232° N
- Longitude: 79.3219° W
Location and History
Deer Park is a small town located in southwestern Garrett County, near the town of Oakland. The town was established in the late 19th century as a luxury resort destination for wealthy visitors, particularly those traveling on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. The Deer Park Hotel, a grand resort built in 1873, attracted notable guests, including U.S. presidents such as Ulysses S. Grant and Grover Cleveland. While the hotel no longer exists, Deer Park retains its reputation as a peaceful, rural retreat. The town is surrounded by natural beauty, making it a popular spot for those seeking tranquility and outdoor activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Deer Park is part of Garrett County Public Schools, with Southern Garrett High School in nearby Oakland serving local students. Major landmarks include the historic Deer Park Hotel site, though the original structure was demolished in the early 20th century, and the Deer Park Spring, known for its pure spring water. The nearby Herrington Manor State Park offers opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. Deep Creek Lake, a short drive away, provides year-round recreational activities, from water sports in the summer to skiing in the winter. Deer Park’s quiet, scenic setting makes it a desirable location for vacation homes and weekend getaways.