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Patapsco Valley State Park, Ellicott City

4.4

#10 of 43 in Nature in Maryland

Patapsco Valley State Park is a Maryland state park extending along of the Patapsco River to the south and west of the city of Baltimore. The park encompasses multiple developed recreational areas on over of land. In 2006, it was officially celebrated as Maryland's first state park.History20th centuryFormation of the park started with provisions in the Forestry Act of 1906. The completion of Bloede's Dam in 1906 required the implementation of protections to prevent silting from nearby farm erosion. Patapsco Valley State Park was established as Patapsco State Forest Reserve in 1907 to protect the valley's forest and water resources. The first 43 acres were donated by Russell Sage Foundation director John Mark Glenn (1858-1950) from his Hilton estate. In 1912, Maryland delegate Carville Benson promoted expanding the Patapsco Forest Reserve as a park to support his suburban development initiatives. As other sections along the river were added, Patapsco Valley State Park became one of the largest parks in Maryland.In 1933, the Civilian Conservation Corps opened State Park Project 2 work camps 336 and 356 at the park. CCC workers created recreational facilities and performed tree plantings for erosion control and silt management around the dam from adjacent overworked farms. Keeping the shores and hillsides vegetated minimized erosion, thus minimizing the amount of silt that could clog the turbines of Bloede's Dam which generated electricity for surrounding communities.

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Patapsco Valley State Park Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

211 reviews

Google

4.6

By dblagmon On January 3, 2018

Every year a group of us get together and spend the day at Patapsco Valley State Park. We always get the same pavilion which sits alone and we love it. We never infringe on anyone else there while pla... more »
By Rachel K On November 15, 2017

Patapsco Valley State Park is a great place. It's huge and there's so much to do there. There are 3 main sections of the park, all of which have hiking trails, bike trails, playgrounds, grilling areas... more »
By whereletsgo On November 10, 2017

This park extends 32 miles along the Patapsco River covering 16,000 acres of recreation fun for hiking, cycling (mtn), running, fishing, camping, horseback riding, canoeing and picnicking. Over 200 mi... more »

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By Kat Forder On November 27, 2017

One of the best parks in Maryland! Walking, hiking and hiking trails abound. Excellent maintenance, clean restrooms, and attentive park rangers. Summer weekends fill up fast, often by 10am, so arrive early if you want to be sure to get access. A seasonal park pass is recommended if you're a frequent visitor, otherwise a $3 entrance fee is required.

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By Bill Mirabello On November 15, 2017

I'm a senior citizen that have fished the river at Avalon for years. I fish year long through the winter as well. There are no trash container available and I believe I can understand why. Also, the rangers can't be trash collectors as well. But, every year it gets worse. It's at an alarming rate that people leave trash. Too me, most of it is along the river banks where people picnic or fish. People need to have consequences for their actions. My idea is maybe policing these areas and asking for identification. Later to be followed up, if trash is left, will help prevent littering. Keep American Beautiful

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By Michele Johnson Huffman On December 29, 2017

Lots of great hikes--some that take just a half hour and others that will take an hour or two. There are some waterfalls, and even some historical sites. The backdrop of the viaduct (built around the 1700s) adds drama. Lots of picnic tables and pavillions, and a large playground.

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By Chuck Whipps On January 4, 2018

Always beautiful, fish, hike camp. Great views from a lot of different mountain sides. Great to take kids without having to travel far

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By ChilliwackBuck On December 30, 2017

Great hike! Easily identifiable trails. Beautiful scenery at the falls. Everything is frozen over. Great for family and pets.

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