January Updates
Hunting Season continues in the Patapsco Valley.
Please check the Patapsco Valley, Morgan Run and Soldiers Delight websites for more information. Trail users are encouraged to wear fluorescent orange or pink during hunting season. For more information on hunting in Maryland, check the official Department of Natural Resources website for hunting regulations.
The Hollofield Area Campground will be closed in 2025 for a renovation.
Please be advised that the Hollofield Area Campground is not accepting reservations for the 2025 season to due a long-anticipated renovation. While the Hilton Area will remain open for the season, campers should be aware the campground has a limited total capacity and only offers non-electric, tent-only sites.
Soldiers Delight Visitor Center Hours of Operation
- Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Stop in to learn about the unique Serpentine Barren ecosystem or visit your favorite animal ambassadors!
January Programs and Events
 January 5 and 19: Serpentine Ecosystem Restoration Project (SERP) Volunteer Event
9 a.m.-2:30p.m. at Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area
The Maryland Natural Heritage Program is holding several Serpentine Ecosystem Restoration Project work days this winter at Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area. Volunteers will assist by removing non-native Virginia pine and other invasive plants, allowing grasses to re-colonize the area. A variety of methods will be used, including hand pulling, chipping and use of hand tools. Bring a lunch, snacks, and plenty of water. Pack light, with layered clothing, a hat, sturdy shoes, and work gloves. Call 410-260-8568 after 7 p.m. the night before the event to check for inclement weather schedule changes. Space is limited, so registration is required! Email paula.becker@maryland.gov to register.
Can't join us in January? Then join us on one of these other dates!
February 2 and 16
March 2 and 16
January 12: Surviving Winter: A Reptile’s Guide
1-1:45 p.m. at the Soldiers Delight Visitor Center
Have you ever wondered how reptiles survive the winter? Join a park naturalist to learn about these animals’ amazing cold-weather strategies and meet some of our Scales & Tales ambassador turtles and snakes! Limited to 20 participants. Signup encouraged. Rain or shine.
January 18: Conifer Quest
1-2:30 p.m. at McKeldin Area, Basketball Courts
The quest given to you takes you on a journey that is not so long and rather sticky! Join our naturalist as they guide you on a quest for conifers! Be prepared for a moderate walk with slight elevation changes and a somewhat rocky path as you journey on part of the Tall Poplar Trail, then finish walking on pavement. Limited to 20 participants. Weather dependent. Signup encouraged.
|
January 18: Orion Battles Jupiter for Custody of the Twins!
6:30-8:30 p.m. at Soldiers Delight Visitor Center
Join Westminster Astronomical Society Inc. to see Jupiter, the king of planets, go toe to toe with Orion the King of Deep Sky Wonders in a battle to see who will get custody of the twins (Gemini). Make a comet to see where meteor showers come from and one lucky person will win a genuine meteorite. Rain or shine. Signup encouraged.
January 20: Indigenous Pottery: Piscataway and Susquehannock
11-12:30 p.m. at Avalon Area, William Offutt Johnson History Center
Join us at the William Offutt Johnson History Center to learn about the history of the Indigenous peoples of Maryland. We will discuss the historic and surviving cultures of the Piscataway and Susquehannock peoples before making our own pottery pieces inspired by traditional Indigenous works. Signup required. Rain or shine.
|
Looking ahead into February and March...
February 1: The Raptors of Winter
1-2:30 p.m. at Soldiers Delight Visitor Center
Soar high above the leafless tree tops as we learn about some of our winter raptors and how they survive the cold of a Maryland winter. This program will involve a short hike on part of our Serpentine Trail so expect a slight elevation change and slightly rocky path. as well as a presentation. Maximum 25 participants. Signup encouraged. Weather dependent.
|
February 9: Hidden Corners Hike - Brooks Elba Estate History Hike
2-4:30 p.m. at PVSP North Area near River Road, Sykesville
Join Volunteer Ranger and mining historian Johnny Johnsson for the annual Hidden Corners Hike. We will hike about two miles to rediscover and interpret little known or forgotten historic features of Northern Patapsco Valley State Park near Sykesville. These include foundations of the old Elba estate belonging first to iron furnace owner James W. Tyson and later the Brooks family (with a surprise connection to British royalty). Other landscape features include old granite quarry ledges. This program would be appropriate for those age 12 and up and able to hike this distance and variable terrain. Proper footwear, gloves, hat, and appropriate warm clothing layers for winter weather with possible snow on the ground will be needed. Signup required; more specific driving and parking directions will be provided via email in the days leading up to the program.
February 15: Gravity and Black Holes
6:30-8:30 p.m. at Soldiers Delight Visitor Center
Tonight Westminster Astronomical Society Inc. will delve into one of the most intriguing and enigmatic phenomena in the universe: black holes and the force of gravity that governs them. Our discussion will explore the formation of black holes, the role of gravity in their behavior, and the profound implications they have for our understanding of the universe. Join me as we journey into the depths of these mysterious entities and uncover the secrets they hold about the nature of gravity and the cosmos. Rain or shine. Signup encouraged.
|
March 22: STEM Like a Girl
1-3 p.m. at Soldiers Delight Visitor Center
Join us to celebrate women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Enjoy hands-on activities, demonstrations, and interactive table displays led by specialists in their fields in an informal, walk-by setting. Let's show everyone why having diverse voices in the workplace is important! Rain or shine. Signup encouraged.
 Camp Hosts Wanted for 2025 season!
Who? Anyone with a love of nature, people and parks! Applicants must provide their own camper/RV/trailer and be willing to commit at least 30 hours per week to hosting.
What? Camp hosts are often one of the first points of contacts for visitors. They are the welcoming face, helpful hands and diligent monitors of the campground. Duties include cleaning fire rings and campsites between campers, welcoming visitors, selling firewood and ice, etc.
Where? We are currently recruiting for the Hilton Area Campground! Hilton is located in Catonsville, which is known as "Music City, Maryland," for it's rich cultural heritage. It's proximity to the Baltimore metropolitan area makes it a wonderful introductory camping experience, and it's quaint charm encourages families to return year after year!
When? We require at least a one month commitment from April to October.
Questions? Contact us at volunteer.patapsco.dnr@maryland.gov or call our office at 410-461-5005.
A message from our Friends...
Becoming a member of the Friends of Patapsco Valley State Park (FPVSP) is a powerful way to support the stewardship of the park. Membership helps fund vital community-focused initiatives, including trail maintenance, habitat restoration, and programs that foster environmental awareness and responsible park use.
By joining FPVSP, members directly contribute to the park, improving accessibility, and enhancing recreational opportunities for all. Together, we can ensure that Patapsco Valley State Park remains a vibrant and sustainable shared resource for our community.
Get involved by becoming a member!
|
Unless otherwise noted, events are held rain or shine, free and fun for all ages; donations are always welcome. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult.
Dress for the weather/activity, wear sunscreen and insect repellent, bring plenty of water and snacks, and remember to check for ticks.
Please call 410-461-5005 for additional information or to register.
Patapsco Valley staff also manages Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area and Morgan Run Natural Environment Area.
Join Patapsco Heritage Greenway for 2025 events. Learn more on their website.
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 75 state parks include more than 900 miles of trails for biking, hiking and horseback riding, as well as unique water access and camping facilities.
First Responders & Law Enforcement Discount:
$40 off the Annual Park Pass, which provides unlimited day-use entry to all Maryland State Parks, plus free boat launching and discounts on concessions and boat rentals.
Offer good for Maryland residents only.
|
|
