~John Muir
Ain't that the truth. If you live in Maryland you have probably been to at least one park, we are literally surrounded by them based on our state's topography. There are over 100 recreational parks located in the mountains to the beaches.
I happen to be one of the lucky residents to have a park right in my backyard, the Patapsco Valley State Park. It extends along 32 miles of the Patapsco River, encompassing 16,000 acres and has five large recreational areas. Patapsco State Park pretty much has it all if you are interested in any kind of outdoor activity: hiking, fishing, camping, canoeing, horseback riding trails, nature and history study, as well as picnicking.
I ventured over to the Daniels Road entrance last week when the temperatures became intolerable. As soon as we hit the paths, we felt instantly cooler and although the gnats were out, bug spray took care of them while we walked along the river. We found like-minded people who were enjoying picnics, swimming and kayaking.
I was thrilled to see the park thriving but suggest you take advantage of these wonderful out-door resources while they are still around. After reading about the state parks budget cuts in California and New York, I worry about the future of Maryland's own natural treasures. We could be far from that day, but the thought of losing them makes me want to go hiking and picture-taking as long as my time here lasts (translation: until my house sells).
Support Patapsco Valley State Park by becoming a friend!
References:
State Park budget cuts in New York
State Park budget cuts in California.
All photos taken and are property of C. Langrall
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