In 2011, legislators lowered the state’s share of slots revenue at Rocky Gap from 67 percent to 50 percent. Empire's contingent bid was based on Maryland altering its 67 percent tax on casinos-one of the highest in the United States. In 2009, the state's initial effort to open a casino in the park failed when the only bidder, Empire Resorts, did not pay the required $4.5 million licensing fee. The resort failed to sustain its early success, began posting losses, and became dependent on MEDCO subsidies to stay in operation. The facility opened in April 1998 at a cost of $53.9 million. The Rocky Gap Resort and Golf Course was developed in 1998 by the Maryland Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO), an agency created in 1984 that allows the State of Maryland to directly own or develop property for economic benefit. In 1970, the Army Corps of Engineers dammed Rocky Gap Run to create Lake Habeeb. Initial state purchases began in 1963 with land acquisition continuing until 1966. The park originated with the donation of land by Edward Habeeb and others for the creation of a state park at Rocky Gap. The park is managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the resort by Golden Entertainment, Inc. The park offers water recreation, camping facilities, and hiking trails.

The state park's 3,000 acres (1,200 ha) include Lake Habeeb, Evitts Mountain, and the privately owned and operated Rocky Gap Casino Resort. Rocky Gap State Park is a public recreation area with resort features located on Interstate 68 (exit 50), seven miles (11 km) east of Cumberland in Allegany County, Maryland.

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