Maryland State Parks

05/29/2026

Step back in time and explore one of Maryland’s most fascinating hidden histories. Join park staff for a guided hike through Freedman’s State Park, where you’ll learn about the community that once thrived here and the stories that helped shape the landscape we see today. Space is limited, so be sure to register in advance. See the image below for details.

05/28/2026

It's time to start planning for the weekend!

May we suggest you check off a few of the "America in Miniature" State Park challenges this weekend... it's easy, and lots of fun! Who's in?

This is a great opportunity for scouts and homeschoolers to explore our parks, as well as get in some family fun for the summer! Don't miss out. Everyone is welcome to participate!

Need help getting started? First, go to www.shopdnr.com to register – it's just $10 per person, if you wish to be entered for the prize drawing and earn your badge.

Next, get out and adventure in a Maryland State Park. Earn points for each task you complete. Snap your photo with the Maryland flag in a park? Ten points. Visit the historic Grusendorf Log Cabin? Five points. Visit a bald eagle at a Maryland aviary? Five more points. The Maryland Park Service has just placed 10 new benches along trails across the state. If you find a bench, dubbed the “best seat in the park,” and snap a photo, you will earn 20 points.

When you hit 250 points, submit your photos and receive a badge for completing the America in Miniature Challenge.

There are tons of challenge categories to choose from, and options all over the state – seek out cannons, lighthouses, state symbols, historic structures and more! Pick your own path to reach 250 points. A complete breakdown of points and challenges can be found below.

05/27/2026

Stop by Point Lookout State Park this weekend, May 30 and 31 to learn from living history across decades and various time periods. This volunteer led programming will feature small arms, military, and civilian living history programming.

05/27/2026

Myles (the "Miles for Maryland" squirrel mascot- seen below) is very happy to announce that the collectable "Miles for Maryland" items have been mailed out to everyone who registered before May 1st. Every individual receives a sticker and zipper pull, and each team also gets a magnet! Did you get yours? If so, show us your swag... we hope to see you out on the trail soon!

It's not too late to register! Find all the details here: https://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/Miles-for-Maryland.aspx

05/23/2026

UPDATE: We would like to clarify reservation requirements for Swallow Falls State Park for the 2026 season.

Previous information shared about the reservation schedule at Swallow Falls included additional weekday and fall reservation periods. Swallow Falls State Park will follow the same reservation schedule as the other parks participating in the Maryland Park Service Day Use Reservation System.

Advance day-use reservations will only be required on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

The reservation system is intended to help reduce overcrowding, improve traffic flow, and create a more predictable visitor experience during peak visitation periods. Reservations may be made up to seven days in advance at parkdayuse.maryland.gov

05/22/2026

Visit Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park this Juneteenth, Friday, June 19, for a day of special programming presented by Wild Seed Productions LLC., “Thenceforward and forever free!”: Collective Reflections on American Freedom. From 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. there will be a creative arts and history workshop. The public is invited to drop in and partake in a visual design activity, paper crafts, collage, group dialogue, and creative writing.

At 1 p.m.c local theater artist and Founder of Soul Shine Theater Garden, Sisi Reid, will perform excerpts from her new one-woman show "Ya Dig". The performance will be followed by a poetry share, communal storytelling, and the reveal of a “North Star Sculpture” in honor of Juneteenth and our North Star, Harriet Tubman. We can’t wait to create with you! Activities will run all afternoon and folks are welcome to drop in and come and go as you please. All ages and skill levels are welcome! Call 410-221-2290 with any questions.

05/22/2026

05/21/2026

Metal detecting can be a fun way to explore Maryland’s history, but please remember that approval from the park manager is required before metal detecting in Maryland State Parks. Rules can vary from park to park, and some areas may be restricted to help protect historical artifacts, archaeological resources, wildlife habitats, and sensitive natural areas.

Please note that metal detecting is always prohibited at Point Lookout State Park and Calvert Cliffs State Park.

Before heading out, we encourage visitors to contact the park directly and review the regulations here: https://bit.ly/4nLJ1RI

05/21/2026

Looking for a fun way to get the kids outdoors and connected with nature this summer? James Island State Park’s Junior Ranger program gives young adventurers the chance to explore the Chesapeake Bay environment through hands-on activities, outdoor skills, and plenty of time outside making memories.

05/21/2026

Due to forecasted rain and cooler temperatures over Memorial Day weekend, Dans Mountain Pool will now open for the season on May 30. Regular hours will be 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. Please note the pool will also be closed June 1-5 and June 8-10 due to lifeguards still being in school.

Admission is $4 per person, with free entry for children 5 and under, veterans and active-duty military with ID, Golden Age Pass holders, and Maryland Park Service Passport holders. Evening pool parties are also available by reservation.

Because hours may change due to weather, staffing, or other conditions, visitors are encouraged to call ahead at 301-895-5453 before visiting.