The town of Deer Park traces its history back to the 1770s, long before Garrett County was established. The town was part of property owned by Lord Baltimore and was originally surveyed on April 14, 1774. Deer Park saw immense growth during the mid to late 1880s, primarily because of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. The Deer Park Hotel, constructed in 1872, served as the focal point for visitors who came to the mountaintop to enjoy the beautiful scenery and cool temperatures during the summer months. Numerous large cottages were subsequently erected and made available to wealthy visitors.

As automobiles became more readily available in the early 1900s, transportation was no longer limited to railroad service, and Deer Park lost its appeal as a vacation destination. The fortunes of the town took a gradual downturn. Fires and demolitions have destroyed many of the fine homes and hotels that once were abundant in the area.

At the start of the 21st century, Deer Park finds itself in a position to capitalize once again on Garrett County’s natural beauty and strong work ethic. Recently constructed water and sewer systems provide an impetus for residential and commercial growth, both of which had stagnated since the 1900s.

Deer Park is home to the Deer Park Spring Water Company, which provides quality bottled water from Boiling Springs. The famous Flying Scot sailboats are manufactured within the town’s corporate limits.