The 30 Best Recreational activities in state forests of maryland in Maryland

Libertytown Park is a charming and peaceful oasis located at 9140-9156 Liberty Village Road in Union Bridge, Maryland. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. The park features lush greenery, walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day out with family and friends or simply want to enjoy some time alone in nature, Libertytown Park is the perfect destination. So come and explore this hidden gem in Maryland and experience the tranquility and serenity that this park has to offer.

Hyattstown Open Space Special Park is a serene and picturesque park located at 25923 Frederick Road in Clarksburg, Maryland. This beautiful tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, walking trails, and open spaces perfect for picnics and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or explore nature's beauty, Hyattstown Open Space Special Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

North Point Park is a picturesque park located in Damascus, Maryland, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful oasis with stunning views of nature. The park features lush greenery, walking paths, picnic areas, and a serene lake where visitors can relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply take in the beauty of the surroundings, North Point Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Charlotte’s Quest Nature Center is a serene and educational park located at 3400 Wilhelm Lane in Manchester, Maryland, United States. This nature center is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the natural beauty and wildlife of the area. With walking trails, educational programs, and interactive exhibits, Charlotte’s Quest Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come experience the wonders of the outdoors and connect with the environment at this peaceful and scenic park.

Centennial Park Pavilion H is a beautiful park located at 4770 Woodland Road, Ellicott City, Maryland, United States. This park is part of the larger Blandair Regional Park, which also includes the North, West, and East sections. The park offers a range of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy, including outdoor basketball courts, a skate park, pickleball courts, pathways, a parking lot, and shade structures. The history of the land where the park is located dates back to the time when Native American tribes, such as the Susquehannock and Piscataway, hunted and had seasonal camps in the area. European settlers, including Puritans, Quakers, and Catholics, later came to the region seeking religious freedom. The land was owned by several families over the years, with the last owners being Henry and Lillian Smith, who bought the farm in 1937.

Cylburn Arboretum is a 200-acre urban oasis located at 4915 Greenspring Avenue in Baltimore, Maryland. This park and tourist attraction is a place of natural beauty and learning, featuring hundreds of specimen trees and plantings, stunning gardens, wooded trails, a historic mansion, and a nature center. Open to the public year-round, Cylburn invites visitors to explore and enjoy the remarkable surroundings. While the mansion and Vollmer are closed to the public except for occasional open hours, the grounds, gardens, and trails remain open for all to experience. Restrooms are available in the greenhouse classroom building and the Nature Education Center during their operating hours. Additionally, Cylburn Arboretum offers the opportunity to apply for the fall 2024 Master Naturalist Course, with an application deadline of May 15th. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty and knowledge of Cylburn Arboretum!

Forge Park is a serene and picturesque park located at 420 Schwartz Avenue in Baltimore, Maryland, United States. This beautiful park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, winding walking paths, and tranquil ponds. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing stroll, have a picnic, or simply sit and enjoy the natural surroundings. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a place to reconnect with nature, Forge Park is the perfect destination.

Lynch Cove Park is a picturesque park located at 1971 Church Road in Dundalk, Maryland, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery, tranquil walking trails, and beautiful waterfront views of Lynch Cove. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely picnic, go for a relaxing stroll, or simply unwind in nature, Lynch Cove Park provides the perfect setting for a day of outdoor recreation and relaxation. With its convenient location and stunning natural surroundings, Lynch Cove Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Willow Grove Nature Education Center is a beautiful park located at 2175 Cromwell Bridge Road in Parkville, Maryland, United States. This center offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while learning about the local ecosystem. With walking trails, educational exhibits, and interactive programs, Willow Grove Nature Education Center is the perfect place for individuals of all ages to connect with the natural world. Whether you are interested in birdwatching, plant identification, or simply enjoying a peaceful stroll through the woods, this center has something for everyone. Come visit Willow Grove Nature Education Center and experience the wonders of the outdoors in a serene and educational setting.

Greenbriar Local Park is a charming 25-acre park located at 12525 Glen Road in Potomac, Maryland. Established in 2016, this park offers a perfect mix of green spaces and recreational activities for visitors of all ages. The park's theme, "The Journey of Raindrop," is showcased through interpretive signage and custom playgrounds, providing educational opportunities about watersheds, Maryland geography, and local wildlife. Visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities such as a soccer field, volleyball and basketball court, playgrounds, and picnic areas. With over 16.5 acres of undisturbed land, including lush forests, Greenbriar Local Park provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The park was developed to meet the recreational needs of the Travilah area, while still maintaining the rural charm of the neighborhood.

Little Bennett Regional Park, located at 23701 Frederick Road in Clarksburg, Maryland, is a must-visit tourist attraction in Montgomery County. This 3,700-acre park is the largest natural gem in the area, offering visitors stunning scenery, a large campground, a small playground, and over 25 miles of scenic natural surface trails. Visitors can explore the park's natural wonders on foot, mountain bike, or horseback, taking in the beauty of the forests, meadows, and streams. Keep an eye out for native wildlife such as the eastern bluebird and timberdoodle as you wander through the wetland area on the Western Piedmont Trail.

Brookside Nature Center, located in Wheaton, Maryland, is a museum, park, and tourist attraction surrounded by natural open areas and wooded trails. Visitors can explore a wooded nature play area, learn about forest habitats on interpretive boardwalks, and observe wildlife such as great blue herons at the pond. The center also features the 1870s Harper Homestead, offering a glimpse into the past. Nestled within 536 acres of Wheaton Regional Park, Brookside Nature Center offers quality programs for people of all ages and abilities. From nature hikes to family puzzle events, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The center has been recognized with the 2021 TripSavvy Editors’ Choice Award for Families.

Woodacres Local Park is a charming park located at 5850 Wynnwood Road in Bethesda, Maryland, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages. The park features a playground, two softball fields, a baseball field, a multi-use field, and a basketball court, providing plenty of options for outdoor fun. Additionally, Woodacres Local Park boasts two tennis courts and a picnic area, making it the perfect spot for a day out with family and friends. Managed by M-NCPPC, this 10.4-acre park has been a beloved community space since it was acquired in 1947. Whether you're looking to play sports, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the great outdoors, Woodacres Local Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Argyle Local Park is a beautiful 8.9-acre park located at 1030 Forest Glen Road in Silver Spring, Maryland. This park offers a variety of amenities, including a Park Activity Building, picnic area, playground, accessible basketball courts, two pickleball courts on two accessible tennis courts, softball field, and multi-use field. The tennis courts and basketball courts are available on a first-come-first-served basis, or you can reserve them by purchasing a permit through the Park Permit Office. If you're looking for a unique venue for your next event, consider renting the Argyle Local Park Activity Building. This air-conditioned building features a kitchen and is perfect for meetings, community gatherings, birthday parties, bridal showers, graduation parties, and other social events. The building is conveniently located near a playground, tennis courts, basketball court, and permitted ballfields, making it a great choice for events of all kinds. To reserve the building, simply purchase a permit through the Park Permit Office.

Savage Park, located at 8400 Fair Street in Savage, Maryland, United States, is a historic park with a rich history dating back to the 1700s. Originally owned by various families including the Talbots, Dorsey, Howard, Weems, and Bland, the land was once home to enslaved African Americans who worked on the farm until emancipation in 1864. The property changed hands several times until it was purchased by the Smith family in 1937, who resisted efforts to sell it for development. In 1997, Howard County acquired the property and began developing it into a park, preserving its history while creating a space for outdoor recreation. The park features various amenities including outdoor basketball courts, a skate park, pickleball courts, pathways, parking lots, and shade structures. With a mix of deciduous forest, farmlands, and orchards, Savage Park offers a green oasis in the heart of Howard County, providing opportunities for nature education and historic interpretation. Visit Savage Park to explore its rich history and enjoy outdoor activities in a beautiful natural setting.

The Cheverly Community Center is a vibrant hub of activity located at 6401 Forest Road in Cheverly, Maryland. This welcoming institution offers a wide range of programs and events for residents of all ages, including fitness classes, art workshops, community meetings, and more. With its convenient location and diverse offerings, the Cheverly Community Center serves as a gathering place for the local community to come together, connect, and engage in enriching activities. Whether you're looking to get fit, learn something new, or simply socialize with neighbors, the Cheverly Community Center has something for everyone. Come visit and see all that this dynamic institution has to offer!

The Patuxent Research Refuge - North Tract Visitor Center, located at 230 Bald Eagle Drive in Laurel, Maryland, is a serene park offering 25 miles of trails for walking, biking, and horseback riding. The Visitor Center is open Thursdays through Sundays, providing information and a quiet atmosphere for those seeking solitude. The refuge, established in 1936, is dedicated to wildlife research and conservation, welcoming over 200,000 visitors annually. The refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including deep-forest songbirds like the Scarlet Tanager. Visitors can also participate in volunteer opportunities, join the Friends of Patuxent group, or work with the Youth Conservation Corp to help protect and enhance the habitats and species in the area. The refuge is currently seeking public comments on a proposed National Wildlife Refuge in Southern Maryland, aiming to conserve up to 40,000 acres of land to support threatened and endangered species, waterfowl, and migratory birds. Whether you enjoy walking trails, fishing ponds, or simply connecting with nature, the Patuxent Research Refuge offers a peaceful retreat for both wildlife and visitors alike.

Bodkin Park is a charming and picturesque park located at 8270 Bodkin Avenue in Pasadena, Maryland, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery, peaceful walking trails, and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely picnic, go for a relaxing stroll, or simply unwind in the tranquil surroundings. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to read a book or a beautiful backdrop for a family outing, Bodkin Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Jefferson Patterson Park is a stunning 560-acre park located at 10515 Mackall Road in Saint Leonard, Maryland. This historic site is not only a beautiful natural oasis but also a significant tourist attraction in the region. Visitors can explore the park's lush forests, scenic waterfront views, and numerous hiking trails. Additionally, the park is home to the Maryland Archaeological Conservation Laboratory, where visitors can learn about the rich history of the area through interactive exhibits and educational programs. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Jefferson Patterson Park is a must-visit destination in Maryland.

The Cross Island Trail trailhead is a convenient starting point for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the scenic beauty of Maryland's Eastern Shore. Located at 113 Jackson Creek Road in Grasonville, this parking facility provides easy access to the 6.5-mile trail that winds through forests, wetlands, and waterfront areas. Whether you're biking, hiking, or just taking a leisurely stroll, the Cross Island Trail offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With ample parking and restroom facilities available, visitors can enjoy a seamless and enjoyable outdoor experience.

Mineral Springs Neighborhood Conservation Area is a beautiful park located at 17800 Cottonwood Terrace in Gaithersburg, Maryland. This conservation area is a serene and peaceful retreat where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and scenic views, Mineral Springs Neighborhood Conservation Area is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, go for a jog, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the fresh air, this park offers something for everyone. Come visit Mineral Springs Neighborhood Conservation Area and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in Gaithersburg.

Tree Trekkers Frederick Outdoor Aerial Adventure Ropes and Zipline Park is an exciting outdoor adventure park located at 9560 Old National Pike in Frederick, Maryland, United States. Visitors can challenge themselves on a variety of aerial ropes courses and zip lines set among the trees, providing a thrilling and immersive experience in nature. Whether you're looking for a fun day out with family and friends or a team-building activity for a group, Tree Trekkers offers a unique and exhilarating way to explore the great outdoors. With trained guides and top-of-the-line safety equipment, visitors can enjoy a safe and unforgettable adventure high above the forest floor.

Deep Creek Lake is a picturesque institution located at 21032 Garrett Highway in Oakland, Maryland, United States. This stunning natural attraction is the largest freshwater lake in Maryland, offering visitors a wide range of recreational activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, Deep Creek Lake is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to relax on the shore, explore the surrounding wilderness, or enjoy water sports, Deep Creek Lake has something for everyone.

The Carrie Murray Nature Center is a tranquil oasis located at 1901 Ridgetop Road in Baltimore, Maryland. This park and tourist attraction offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with winding trails through lush forests, peaceful ponds, and abundant wildlife. The center also provides educational programs and events for all ages, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and families alike. Come explore the wonders of the outdoors at the Carrie Murray Nature Center.

The Gunpowder Falls Trailhead is a scenic park located at 1001 Falls Road in Parkton, Maryland, United States. This beautiful trailhead serves as the starting point for various hiking and biking trails that wind through the lush forests and along the picturesque Gunpowder Falls River. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful escape into nature, with opportunities for birdwatching, picnicking, and exploring the diverse wildlife that calls this area home. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, the Gunpowder Falls Trailhead offers something for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. Come and experience the natural beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in Maryland.

Bradley Park is a picturesque and serene park located along the Saint Michaels Nature Trail in Saint Michaels, Maryland, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature, with lush greenery, scenic views, and a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or explore the great outdoors, Bradley Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Laurel Springs Regional Park is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 5940 Radio Station Road in La Plata, Maryland, United States. This beautiful park offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with scenic walking trails, lush greenery, and a serene pond. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply relax and unwind in nature, Laurel Springs Regional Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come and explore this hidden gem in La Plata and experience the beauty and tranquility of Laurel Springs Regional Park for yourself.

St Johns Rock Parking and Picnic Area is located in Frostburg, Maryland, United States within the Savage River State Forest. This park is managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Forest Service and offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, and camping. Visitors can also enjoy boating, canoeing, ORV trail riding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing in the forest. The park has a public shooting range that is open 365 days a year. Additionally, the park has designated State Wildlands to preserve unique natural resources. The forest is managed to thin overstocked stands, improve wildlife habitat, and address aesthetic concerns. Visitors can obtain permits and information at the forest headquarters, which is open on select days and hours. The Department of Natural Resources works to preserve and protect Maryland's natural resources for future generations.

The Paw Paw Tunnel Campground is a peaceful retreat located at Mile 156 on the C&O Canal Towpath in Oldtown, Maryland. Situated on the Maryland side of the Potomac River, this campground offers 10 single campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, and grills, each able to accommodate up to eight people. Portable toilets are available on site, and potable water is accessible from April 15 to November 1. Surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the area and adjacent to Green Ridge State Forest, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing during their stay. The nearby town of Paw Paw, West Virginia, provides easy access to the Potomac River for water activities.

Located in Hancock, Maryland, United States, the Sideling Hill Wildlife Management Area is a picturesque park and tourist attraction that spans over 3,100 acres. The main goal of this area is to provide habitat for forest wildlife and protect the water quality of Sideling Hill Creek. Visitors can marvel at the dramatic rock formations, including cliffs and rocky outcrops of Devonian shale and sandstone. The steep shale barrens along the creek are home to unique plants that only grow in this specific area. Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring the mixed oak forest and Virginia Pine stands, as well as spotting wildlife such as turkeys, black bears, white-tailed deer, and grouse. Fishing for stocked trout in the creek is a popular activity, and canoeing is best during the spring melt. Hikers and hunters can enjoy walking along the old logging roads that crisscross the area.