First Saturday Hike: June 3, 2023
Join a ranger on a guided hike! Meet at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 3 at Fair Hill's South Appleton parking lot, 2000 Appleton Road, Elkton.
The hike is about 3 miles in length, and will not be suitable for strollers.
Hikes are free, but day use fees are charged upon entry to the park.
To register, email shinae.gonzalez@maryland.gov or call 410-398-1246.
Photo by Shin Ae Gonzalez
|
There is one Sprouts session remaining! Call the Fair Hill park office to register your 1-3 year old for this fun, educational program. We'd be so pleased to see you!
For more information about Fair Hill NRMA, or to access the park's website, visit our website.
Have you taken photos you love while visiting the park? We want to see them! Photo submissions are welcome at fairhill.dnr@maryland.gov.
Photo credit: Shin Ae Gonzalez
|
 Bird Spotlight: Bobolinks
Fair Hill is home to a wide variety of birds with varying diets and habitats. During the spring and summer, it's rare to hear a break in birdsong. One of the coolest species to sight in the park are bobolinks (Dolichonyx oryzivorus). These black, white, and yellow migratory birds are found at Fair Hill during the months of May, June, and July, most commonly in large hayfields in the park.
Bobolinks are grain-eating birds, which is the basis for their scientific name. This also means bobolinks seek out grasslands and fields as breeding habitat, where they are able to create nests and forage for meals. Fair Hill has set aside 100 acres of prime grassland nesting habitat in a delayed harvest cycle to ensure that these and other grassland birds are able to complete their breeding cycle and successfully raise their young.
If you are out for a walk alongside our blue diamond trail, or even around the youth group camping sites, you may see one of these birds fluttering overhead. Take a moment to listen for a distinctive bubbling song, and enjoy the experience of sighting a very special bird!
Thank you to Pixabay user jasonjdking for this great bobolink photo!
Save the Dates!
Hikes are free, but regular park service charges apply ($3 per vehicle for Maryland residents; $5 for out-of-state visitors). Please dress for the weather/activity, wear sunscreen and insect repellent, bring plenty of water and snacks, and check for ticks.
In case of inclement weather, please contact the Fair Hill NRMA Duty Ranger regarding status of park programs: 410-218-1698.
Save Our Pollinators!
Donate today to support butterfly and bumblebee
habitat and education in state parks!
Donations in any amount are a helpful way to make a difference. Thank you!
|
 Annual Pass Available for Purchase
$75 for Marylanders; $100 for out-of-state visitors
Our annual State Park and Trail Passport grants unlimited day-use admission and boat launching at state parks, and a 10 percent discount on state-operated concessions and boat rentals.
To enhance convenience and value, this year's pass will arrive in a self-contained packet with a detachable hang-tag, and will be valid for a full year from the month of purchase.
Our network of state parks include more than 900 miles of trails for biking, hiking, and horseback riding, as well as unique water access and camping facilities.
|
