Scales & Tales is an educational program using injured, non-releasable birds of prey and reptiles native to Maryland. Featured at the Rocky Gap State Park Aviary are many birds that have been injured and cannot be released or have been raised in captivity and could not survive in the wild.
This one-of-a-kind program allows visitors the opportunity to view wildlife up close and hear the tales of how the animals became part of the program.
If you are looking for something unique at your next gathering, a Scales & Tales program can be scheduled as part of your special event.
To check for program availability, scheduling or to receive information on program costs, please contact the park office at 301.722.1480 or via e-mail to Ranger Barger at kathryn.barger@maryland.go.
The Rocky Gap State Park Aviary does not have regularly scheduled open hours. However, visitors may schedule a visit Labor Day through Memorial Day based on staff availability. Modified hours from Memorial Day to Labor Day allow visitors to observe feeding and training of the birds.
For an additional service charge, visitors may reserve a private Critter Encounter or Aviary Tour. Contact Park Headquarters at 301.722.1480 for more information on Scales & Tales or an updated program schedule.
Rocky Gap State Park encompasses over 3,000 acres of public land for guests to enjoy. Rugged mountains surround the park, which also features 243-acre Lake Habeeb. The lake is fed by Rocky Gap Run, which winds through an impressive mile-long gap displaying sheer cliffs, overlooks, and a Hemlock forest dense with Rhododendron.
Rocky Gap Campground offers 260+ individual campsites (including 30 sites equipped with 30-amp electric hook-ups). The campground also has 14 Mini Cabins, a Yurt, a family group site, and two youth group camping areas. The campground also features a dumping station, bathhouses with hot water in each loop, the Scales & Tales Aviary, canoe/kayak/SUP board rentals (Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day), a nature center, a private swimming beach, a playground, trail access, Snack Shack, and a camp store.
Pets are only allowed in select locations.
Reservations are available May-December. Make reservations online at https://parkreservations.maryland.gov or call the reservation center at 1.888.432.2267.
Rocky Gap Casino Resort is located adjacent Rocky Gap State Park near Cumberland, Maryland, in the heart of Allegany County. This location features miles of hiking trails and incredible mountain views.
Rocky Gap Casino Resort is a AAA 4-Diamond Award® and TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence-winning resort featuring a casino, hotel, events and conference center, Bonkerz Comedy Club, three restaurants and a coffee shop, the only Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course in Maryland, a spa, indoor pool, fitness center, pro shop, complimentary valet parking, individual parking, and several outdoor recreational activities.
The casino features 665 slot machines, 17 table games, and two casino bars. The newly opened Lakeside Terrace at Rocky Gap Casino Resort offers a scenic and relaxing outdoor setting with a backdrop that includes Evitts Mountain and the 243-acre Lake Habeeb.
The golf course was included in GolfWeek magazine’s list of the best courses to play in Maryland and best casino courses, as well as featured in Golf Digest’s list of America’s 36 Best Buddies-Trip Destinations.
Rocky Gap Casino Resort is owned by Golden Entertainment, Inc. More information available on website.
