TOP 30 Best State park permits in Maryland

Catoctin Mountain Park is a stunning natural oasis nestled in Thurmont, Maryland. This picturesque park offers visitors a chance to explore lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain views. Popular activities at Catoctin Mountain Park include hiking, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and camping. The park is also home to historic sites such as the former presidential retreat, Camp David. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Catoctin Mountain Park is a must-visit destination in the United States.

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.

Allen Pond Park is a must-visit tourist attraction located at 3330 Northview Drive in Bowie, Maryland, United States. This 85-acre multi-use park offers a range of activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy. From the Bowie Ice Arena and Robert V. Setera Amphitheater to the Bowie Skate Park and Allen Pond itself, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can take advantage of the park's free admission, but please note that the use of athletic fields requires a permit (fees may apply). Allen Pond Park is a popular destination for picnics, with facilities available for rent. Additionally, Opportunity Park within the park offers 100% accessible playground experiences for preschool and school-aged children.

Patapsco Valley State Park - Hilton Area is a beautiful park located at 1101 Hilton Avenue in Catonsville, Maryland. This park is part of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. With 32 miles of the Patapsco River running through it, the park covers 16,043 acres and has eight developed recreational areas. Visitors to Patapsco Valley State Park can enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, canoeing, horseback riding, and mountain biking. The park also has picnic areas with pavilions for large groups to gather and enjoy a meal. The park is known for its extensive trail system, with over 200 miles of trails to explore, including hiker-only trails and multi-use trails.

Loch Raven Reservoir Park is a stunning 1,600-acre park located in Phoenix, Maryland, United States. Owned by the City of Baltimore, this park is managed to protect the reservoir and offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy year-round. From hiking and bird watching to rowing and fishing, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Loch Raven Reservoir Park. The park is also home to the Loch Raven Reservoir Cooperative Wildlife Management Area, which provides habitat for a variety of wildlife species such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, rabbits, squirrels, and songbirds. Hunting is permitted during regulated seasons, and a free permit is required for hunting activities.

Gunpowder Falls State Park Sweet Air Area is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 2791 Dalton Bevard Road in Baldwin, Maryland, United States. Covering 1,250 acres, this area is one of the largest enclaves within Gunpowder Falls State Park. It is situated along the Little Gunpowder Falls, serving as the border between Harford and Baltimore Counties. Visitors can enjoy exploring the 18 miles of trails while taking in the natural beauty of the surroundings. For those interested in fishing, the Little Gunpowder Falls is home to a variety of fish species, such as small mouth bass and bluegill. Anglers 16 years and older must have a Maryland Non-Tidal Fishing License to fish in the area. Additionally, visitors are reminded to be respectful to others and to take their trash with them, as alcohol is not permitted within the park.

Lake Elkhorn Park is a beautiful 37-acre park located in Columbia, Maryland, United States. Situated in the village of Owen Brown, this park features a stunning lake that was built by the Columbia Association in 1974. With a watershed of about 2,500 acres, Lake Elkhorn offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as lakeside picnics, fishing, kayaking, and hiking. The park also boasts boardwalks, decks, piers, gazebos, and pavilions that line the lakeshore, providing the perfect setting for walking, jogging, and gathering closer to nature. In addition, visitors can learn about the efforts to restore the natural function of the lake through the Lake Sediment plan.

Elk Neck State Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 4395 Turkey Point Road in North East, Maryland, United States. Managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the park offers a variety of landscapes including marshlands, wooded areas, cliffs, and sandy shorelines across its 2,370 acres of land. The park is divided into four areas, each offering unique amenities and activities. The Turkey Point Lighthouse Area, located at the southern tip of the peninsula, features a historic lighthouse and stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay. The North East Beach Area is a day-use area with a swimming beach, picnic shelters, and canoe/kayak launch. The Rogues Harbor Boat Launch Facility provides boating access to the Elk River, while the Elk River Camping Area offers campsites, cabins, a park store, and a nature center.

Elk Neck State Forest is a 3,571-acre parcel of land located in central Cecil County, Maryland. This beautiful forest offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hunting, hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. The forest also features shooting ranges for bow, handgun, shotgun, and rifle, although some ranges may be temporarily closed for repairs. Visitors can access permits from a self-service honor system located at the Maintenance Complex. The forest is home to a diverse habitat of mixed deciduous and evergreen trees, as well as an abundance of native shrubs and wildflowers. Birdwatchers will enjoy observing the migratory birds that frequent the area, while nature enthusiasts will appreciate the forest's natural fauna.

Cunningham Falls State Park is a picturesque park located in the Catoctin Mountains of Thurmont, Maryland. Divided into two unique areas, the William Houck Area offers a lake, falls, camping, swimming, hiking, fishing, and canoeing opportunities. The Manor Area features the Scales and Tales Aviary, camping, and the historic Catoctin Iron Furnace. The park has limited cell phone service, so visitors are advised to plan accordingly. Alcohol is prohibited in all areas except the Manor Area Shelter with a permit. During peak visitation times, the park may reach capacity and close to additional visitors. The park also offers educational programs, events, and a footrace during the fall foliage season. Please be mindful of park rules and regulations to help protect the natural resources and facilities.

Cunningham Falls State Park is a picturesque destination located in the Catoctin Mountains in Smithsburg, Maryland. Divided into two unique areas, the park offers a range of leisure opportunities including swimming, hiking, fishing, and canoeing. The William Houck Area features a lake, falls, and camping area, while the Manor Area boasts the Scales and Tales Aviary and the historic Catoctin Iron Furnace. Visitors can enjoy camping at the park from April to October, with camper cabins also available. Please note that cell phone service may be limited in the Catoctin Mountains, so it's best not to rely on it for communication while in the park. Additionally, the park has an alcohol policy in place, with alcoholic beverages prohibited in all areas except for the Manor Area Shelter where permits can be purchased. During peak visitation times, the park may reach capacity and close to additional visitors, so it's recommended to plan ahead and arrive early. Cunningham Falls State Park also features a sewer line renovation and replacement project along Maryland Route 77, impacting certain areas of the park from April to summer. The park is a popular destination during warm weekends, so closures may occur due to capacity limitations. Visitors are encouraged to purchase firewood onsite or from local vendors to prevent the spread of forest pests. The park also features historical sites such as the Catoctin Furnace African American Cemetery, offering a glimpse into the area's industrial past. The park hosts events like the Spirits of the Furnace program and the Friends footrace, providing opportunities for visitors to engage with the park's natural and historical treasures.

Waters Landing Local Park, located at 13701 Waters Landing Drive in Germantown, Maryland, is a popular tourist attraction and local park. The park offers a variety of amenities for visitors of all ages, including a playground, softball field, football/soccer field, multi-use field, and two tennis courts. The 11.7-acre park was acquired by M-NCPPC in 1993 and has been a favorite destination for families and sports enthusiasts. Unfortunately, the shelter at Waters Landing Local Park will be closed through 2024 and unavailable for reservation. However, visitors can still enjoy the park's picnic areas on a first-come, first-served basis from April 1 to October 31. For more information or to make a reservation, you can contact the Montgomery Parks Permit Office at 301-495-2525 during regular business hours.

Meadowbrook Local Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 7901 Meadowbrook Lane in Chevy Chase, Maryland, United States. The park is currently undergoing an electrical upgrade project, which has temporarily suspended nighttime play on the tennis and basketball courts until May 20, 2024. The park sits on 16.6 acres of land and offers a variety of amenities including a Park Activity Building, picnic area, playground, softball and baseball fields, tennis courts, football/soccer fields, and indoor bathroom facilities. Visitors can also rent the Park Activity Building for events such as birthday parties, showers, and meetings. Reservations can be made by calling the Permit Office at (301) 495-2525. The park is wheelchair accessible and is located near the Meadowbrook Riding Stables. Meadowbrook Local Park is a great place for outdoor activities and events, providing a beautiful and convenient location for residents and visitors alike.

Norwood Local Park, located at 4700 Norwood Drive in Chevy Chase, Maryland, is a popular destination for outdoor fun in Bethesda. This park offers a variety of amenities, including two playgrounds, five tennis courts, basketball courts, softball fields, and soccer fields. There are also two park activity buildings available for rent, perfect for birthday parties, meetings, and special events. The Norwood/Bethesda Chevy Chase Park Activity Building is a versatile space with a kitchen and restrooms, conveniently located near the park's amenities. Reservations for the park activity buildings can be made year-round on weekdays and weekends, with two-time slots available per day. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance by calling the Permit Office at (301) 495-2525 during business hours.

Fort Washington Park, located at 13551 Fort Washington Road in Fort Washington, Maryland, is a historic site that has been standing for over 200 years. Originally built to defend the river approach to Washington, DC, the fort has evolved with technology over the years. Now part of the National Park Service, Fort Washington continues to protect the Potomac River. Visitors can explore the historic fort, take a hike along the Potomac River, and enjoy the beautiful wildlife in the area. The park offers various activities that may require a permit, such as reserving a picnic area or hosting a special event like a wedding.

Cunningham Falls State Park - William Houck Area is a popular tourist attraction located at 14039 Catoctin Hollow Road in Thurmont, Maryland, United States. This park is part of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Maryland Park Service and offers various areas for visitors to explore. The William Houck Area features a beautiful lake, stunning waterfalls, a campground with a camp office, and a manor area with its own campground. The park also has an administration building where visitors can obtain information and permits for camping.

Terrapin Nature Park is a 276-acre award-winning nature park located at 191 Log Canoe Circle, Stevensville, Maryland, United States. The park features a 3.25-mile oyster chaff walking trail that takes visitors through wildflower meadows, wetlands, tidal ponds, woodlands, and sandy shoreline. This trail offers a unique opportunity to observe a variety of waterfowl, wildlife, and plant species. A gazebo along the shoreline provides a stunning view of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, while park benches offer a place to rest along the way. The trail also includes observation blinds overlooking the tidal ponds and connects to the County's Cross Island Trail system. Portable toilets are available year-round, with plans to install a Rangers Station and Restroom pods at the trailhead in Spring 2022. Visitors are reminded to respect the park's natural environment by refraining from bringing coolers, grills, open fires, or shade structures outside of designated areas, and to only fish in permitted areas.

Savage River State Forest, located at 127 Headquarters Lane in Grantsville, Maryland, is a 55,185-acre park and tourist attraction managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Forest Service. The forest is a second growth mixed hardwood forest, primarily consisting of oak species, sugar and red maple, black cherry, hickory, and ash. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, boating, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, and camping. The forest also has a public shooting range open year-round. Many areas of the forest have been designated as State Wildlands to preserve unique natural resources. Forest regulations are posted throughout the area, and permits for activities such as firewood cutting and camping can be obtained at the headquarters. The Department of Natural Resources is committed to preserving and protecting Maryland's natural resources for future generations. Additionally, a fraud hotline is available to report any misuse of State government resources.

Prettyboy Reservoir Park, located in Hampstead, Maryland, is a 7,380-acre area owned by the City of Baltimore and managed to protect the reservoir. Visitors can enjoy hiking, rowing, bird watching, horseback riding, and nature photography year-round. The park also offers fishing opportunities and is managed for various fish species. Prettyboy Reservoir is primarily located in northwestern Baltimore County with a small portion extending into northeastern Carroll County. The water from the reservoir is transferred to Loch Raven Reservoir via Gunpowder Falls before being treated and distributed to Baltimore. The area is also open for archery hunting during regulated seasons. The Baltimore Environmental Police safeguard the water supply and provide law enforcement services on the City's water supply lands. Prettyboy Reservoir CWMA hunting access is managed by the Wildlife and Heritage Service, which aims to conserve wildlife populations and habitats for public enjoyment. Visitors can engage in various activities at the park, but hunting permits are required during hunting seasons. The park is open year-round to non-hunters, and visitors are advised to be aware of active hunting seasons. For a complete guide to regulations at the reservoir, visitors can refer to the provided link. The institution also provides information on the National Human Trafficking Hotline and the fraud hotline operated by the Maryland General Assembly's Office of Legislative Audits.

Big Pines Local Park, located at 13900 Travilah Road in Gaithersburg, Maryland, is a charming 11-acre park that serves as a popular tourist attraction in the area. The park offers a variety of amenities including a playground, basketball court, covered picnic area, and two accessible tennis courts. Acquired by M-NCPPC in 1973, this park is a favorite spot for families and groups looking to enjoy outdoor activities in a pesticide-free environment. Visitors can rent the picnic shelter for gatherings and events from April 1 to October 31 on a first-come, first-served basis. To make a reservation, contact the Montgomery Parks Permit Office at 301-495-2525 during office hours. The picnic shelters are perfect for parties, barbecues, and other special occasions.

East Norbeck Local Park, located at 3131 Norbeck Road in Silver Spring, Maryland, is a popular tourist attraction for visitors of all ages. The park offers a variety of amenities including a playground, picnic shelter, softball field, baseball field, accessible soccer field, pickleball courts, tennis courts, and basketball courts. The park spans 25 acres, with half acquired by M-NCPPC in 1971 and the rest in 1997. Picnic shelter reservations are available on a first-come, first-served basis from April 1 to October 31. To make a reservation, you can contact the Montgomery Parks Permit Office at 301-495-2525 during their business hours. The park is open from sunrise to sunset, with an exception for the lighted courts which close at 11 pm.

Wheaton-Claridge Local Park is a peaceful 21.1-acre park located at 11901 Claridge Road in Wheaton-Glenmont, Maryland, United States. Renovated in 2018, the park features a tranquil stream, a picnic area, an accessible playground, and a network of natural surface trails. The park also offers the Wheaton-Claridge Park Activity Building, a spacious recreational facility with a kitchen, bathrooms, and air conditioning. This building is available for reservations for parties, meetings, and events, with two time slots per day. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance by calling the Permit Office at (301) 495-2525. Fees for park amenities and building rentals vary for residents, non-residents, and public agencies. The park is open from sunrise to sunset, with some amenities available for use until 11 pm. Visitors must follow M-NCPPC rules and regulations, as well as the specific Guidelines and Conditions of Use for the facility permit. For a unique and affordable event venue in Wheaton-Glenmont, consider Wheaton-Claridge Local Park.

Capitol View-Homewood Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 2929 Edgewood Road in Kensington, Maryland, United States. This park offers a variety of recreational activities including tennis and basketball courts, a softball field, a soccer field, a playground, and a picnic area. Guests can also rent the Park Activity Building, which features kitchen facilities for events such as parties, bridal showers, meetings, and more. The air-conditioned building is conveniently located next to a playground and basketball court, with additional amenities nearby. Reservations for the Park Activity Building can be made year-round on weekdays and weekends in two-time slots per day. Reservations must be made by calling the Permit Office at (301) 495-2525 during business hours.

Northwest Branch Recreational Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 1450 Norbeck Road in Aspen Hill, Maryland, United States. Covering 680 acres of parkland, the park offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. The park includes the Northwest Branch Golf Course, a 41-acre athletic area with rectangular fields available for permitting in the spring, and is adjacent to Layhill Local Park. Additionally, the National Capital Trolley Museum is located within the park, providing a unique cultural experience for visitors. Montgomery Parks is currently in the process of planning its first 18-hole disc golf course at Northwest Branch Recreational Park, in response to requests from players and recommendations in the 2022 Parks Recreation and Open Space Plan. The new disc golf course will be located next to the National Capital Trolley Museum and will provide a new recreational opportunity for county residents. In addition to the disc golf course, visitors can also enjoy the existing amenities and natural beauty of Northwest Branch Recreational Park.

Takoma-Piney Branch Park is a 17.4-acre local park located at 2 Darwin Avenue in Silver Spring, Maryland. This popular tourist attraction is adjacent to Piney Branch Elementary School and offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. The park recently underwent renovations and now features a new picnic pavilion, basketball courts, two playgrounds, a skate park, a soccer field, a softball field, and a sand volleyball court. Additionally, there are improved entrances with public artwork, an enhanced parking lot with accessible parking, and a looped path around the park for walking and jogging. The park also has natural surface trails, pedestrian connections, and a ramp for easy access to the picnic pavilion. Takoma-Piney Branch Park received a generous donation from The Steve Francis Foundation, which helped fund the renovations. The picnic pavilion is dedicated to the memory of Steve's late mother, Brenda Wilson Bryant, while the basketball court pays tribute to Tony Langley, the long-time president of the Takoma Park Boys and Girls Club.

Pinecrest Park, located at 301 Saint Lawrence Drive in Silver Spring, Maryland, is a popular tourist attraction and local park. With a playground, softball field, multi-use field, and tennis courts, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The park also offers the Pinecrest Recreation Building for indoor events such as parties, bridal showers, meetings, and more. Reservations for the Park Activity Building can be made year-round on weekdays and weekends in two-time slots: 10:00 a.m. – 4 p.m. or 5 – 11 p.m. Reservations must be made over the phone by calling the Permit Office at (301) 495-2525. Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis and can be made up to six months in advance.

Wheaton Forest Local Park, located at 1700 University Boulevard West in Wheaton-Glenmont, Maryland, is a popular tourist attraction and recreational spot. This 9.3-acre park, acquired by M-NCPPC in 1965, offers a variety of amenities including basketball courts, softball fields, tennis courts, and a playground. Visitors can also rent a picnic shelter at the park, which includes five tables, a grill, and restrooms. Picnic shelter reservations are available on a first-come, first-served basis from April 1 to October 31. To reserve a shelter, visitors can create an online account through ActiveMontgomery or call the Montgomery Parks Permit Office at 301-495-2525. Whether you're looking to enjoy a game of basketball, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply relax in a beautiful outdoor setting, Wheaton Forest Local Park has something for everyone.

Calverton-Galway Local Park, located at 3039 Fairland Road in Silver Spring, Maryland, is a popular tourist attraction for visitors of all ages. This 61.2 acre park offers a variety of recreational activities, including a playground, softball and cricket fields, pickleball and tennis courts, and baseball fields. The picnic area features shelters, making it the perfect spot for gatherings and barbecues. One unique feature of this park is the Lee Family Cemetery, which dates back to the 19th century. Descendants of the Lee family have worked to preserve this historic site, which holds the remains of Sarah Lee and her husband Peter, among others. Sarah Lee was a former slave who became one of the few African American property owners in Montgomery County after the Civil War.

Whitemarsh Park, located at 100 White Marsh Park Drive in Bowie, Maryland, is a popular tourist attraction and recreational spot. This 182-acre multi-use park offers a range of amenities for visitors to enjoy, including the Bowie Playhouse, four lighted ballfields, a family picnic area, campfire circle, hiking and biking trails, and a playground. The park also features approximately 1.5 miles of improved trails that are wheelchair and bicycle accessible, as well as several miles of unimproved trails for mountain bike riding. While entry to the park is free, the use of athletic fields requires a permit and fees may apply. Whether you're looking for a place to relax with family or engage in outdoor activities, Whitemarsh Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Greenbrier State Park, located in Boonsboro, Maryland, is a multi-use park nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. The park features a 42-acre freshwater lake with a white sandy beach, perfect for swimming, canoeing, boating, and fishing. Visitors can explore almost eleven miles of hiking trails that wind through various wildlife habitats and showcase the area's geological history. The park offers 164 campsites in a forest setting, with amenities such as fresh water, bathhouses, and pet-friendly camping loops. The park also features an accessible visitor center, picnic areas, and beach wheelchairs for those with disabilities. In addition to outdoor activities, Greenbrier State Park is part of the South Mountain Recreation Area, which includes several other state parks with historical and recreational significance. Visitors can explore Gathland State Park, South Mountain State Park, Washington Monument State Park, and South Mountain State Battlefield, each offering unique experiences and educational opportunities.