February Updates
Hunting Season Continues in the Patapsco Valley
Please check the Patapsco Valley, Morgan Run, and Soldiers Delight websites for more information on hunting in those locations. Trail users are encouraged to wear fluorescent orange or pink during hunting season. For more information on hunting in Maryland, check the Department of Natural Resources website for hunting regulations.
The Hollofield Area Campground Closed for Renovations
Please be advised that the Hollofield Area Campground is not accepting reservations for the 2025 season due to 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.
Detour Expected at Avalon Entrance for Waterline Upgrades
Due to a waterline replacement project under the Patapsco River, the entrance and exit road at the Avalon Area of Patapsco Valley State Park will have temporary closures until March 1, 2025.
On weekdays, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., there may be a detour to enter the Avalon Area off Levering Avenue. Detour directions will be posted near the Avalon Ranger Station. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Soldiers Delight Visitor Center Hours of Operation
- Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
- Closed February 1 and 2.
Stop in to learn about the unique Serpentine Barren ecosystem or visit your favorite animal ambassadors!
February Programs and Events
 February 2 and 16: Serpentine Ecosystem Restoration Project Volunteer Event
9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. at Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area
The Maryland Natural Heritage Program is holding several Serpentine Ecosystem Restoration Project (SERP) work days this winter at Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area. Volunteers will assist by removing non-native Virginia pine and other invasive plants, allowing native grasses to recolonize 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 and wear 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 February? Then join us March 2 and 16 one of our last dates!
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 8: Indigenous Pottery: Piscataway and Susquehannock (Reschedule)
1-2:30 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.
|
February 9: Hidden Corners Hike - Brooks Elba Estate History Hike
2 p.m. at North Area near River Road, Sykesville
Join Volunteer Ranger and mining historian Johnny Johnsson for the annual Hidden Corners Hike, a two-mile journey 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 2.5-hour program would be appropriate for those age 12 and up who are 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
On this night, 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 us 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.
|
February 16: Winter Tree ID Hike
2-3:30 p.m. at Soldiers Delight Visitor Center
Learn about the dichotomous keys and how to use them to identify trees during the winter! Afterwards, we’ll put our new ID skills to the test on a hike through part of our Serpentine Trail, so prepare for rocky terrain and a slight elevation change. Limited to 15 participants. Signup required. Weather dependent .
|
February 23: History in Your Backyard Series: Textiles
1-2 p.m. at Avalon Area, William Offutt Johnson History Center
Fabric: we all use it. Sometimes we barely even think about it but, without it, life would be so different. Join us at the William Offutt Johnson History Center for a presentation about the history of fabrics and about the old fabric mills along the river. Signup required. Rain or shine. Limited to 12 participants.
|
Looking ahead into March...
 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 its quaint charm encourages families to return year after year!
When? We require at least a one month commitment. There are currently openings for April, May, and June.
Questions? Contact us at volunteer.patapsco.dnr@maryland.gov or call our office at 410-461-5005.
A message from our Friends...
2025 is off to an amazing start, with more than 400 people joining us for our First Day Hike! At this event, we kicked off the year with over 30 adaptive participants, building excitement for the new Adaptive Trail at McKeldin and a calendar packed with events for our vibrant park community.
Get involved - your membership fuels our programs, showcases our community's commitment, and keeps you in the loop on all things PVSP!
|
ADVISORY: Avian Influenza in Maryland
Highly Pathogenic H5 Avian Influenza (HPAI), often called “bird flu,” has been detected in wild birds and poultry farms on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. The presence of HPAI should be considered endemic throughout Maryland’s wild bird populations, especially waterfowl and raptors. Risk to human health is low and outdoor activities are safe, but some precautions are advised. Anyone who sees sick or dead birds in the wild should not handle or move the birds, but should report them by calling 1-877-463-6497 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or leave a voicemail) or if in a Maryland State Park, they can also be reported to a park ranger. Read the latest updates on the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website.
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.
|
|
