Discover the 9 Largest City Parks in Maryland

Maryland is one of the most diverse states due to its urban charm, historic appeal, coastal destinations, and natural open spaces. The state boasts an array of city parks throughout the state that offer recreational and community opportunities, beautiful scenery, wildlife, and unique spaces to spend time with friends and family outside. Maryland offers some of the nation’s prettiest urban green spaces, and they are popular for both locals and visitors.

The following list is a compilation of some of the largest parks in Maryland. Still, there are plenty of smaller city parks to enjoy, plus an array of county parks, state parks, and national parks. Read on to discover these gems of Maryland.

Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park

Ranging over 1,000 acres, Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park is the largest city park in Maryland. Located in Baltimore, it is also the second-largest woodland park in the country. The park is in the heart of the city and encompasses a diverse display of landscapes like thick woodlands, flowing streams, and numerous trails. It offers a great escape from the urban hustle, and you don’t even need to leave the city!

Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park’s rich history dates back to the early 20th century and is available for exploration throughout the park. Many people enjoy hiking the numerous trails to view the historic structures. It is also a sanctuary for wildlife, making it the ideal place to spot the Maryland state bird, the Baltimore Oriole. Some of the activities you can enjoy at Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park include:

• Cycling
• Community gardening
• Tennis, baseball, and football
• Carrie Murray Nature Center

Druid Hill Park

Consisting of 745 acres, Druid Hill Park in Baltimore, MD, is the third oldest established park in the United States. The man-made Druid Hill Reservoir and the Maryland Zoo make this spot a highly sought-after park for visitors and locals. Previously known as the Baltimore Zoo, the Maryland Zoo was established in 1876.

Located on the north side of Baltimore, Druid Hill Park provides plenty of activities for guests to enjoy including:

• Walking/running trails
• Athletic fields
• Swimming
• Picnic areas
• Howard P Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens

Hagerstown City Park

City Park in Hagerstown, MD, is a cherished jewel with the perfect blend of natural beauty within an urban setting. Spanning 525 acres, this historic park contains multiple man-made lakes, forested walking trails, recreation facilities, and more. Many locals use this space as an opportunity for exercise, walking their dogs, and appreciating the great outdoors. Also, City Park is home to Maryland wildlife, including waterfowl, fish, and swans.

The iconic Hagerstown City Park Railroad Museum is a draw for history buffs and train enthusiasts, and the bandshell hosts numerous community events for all to enjoy. Some of the activities you can enjoy at Hagerstown City Park include:

• Athletic fields
• Tennis
• Playground
• Touring the Jonathan Hager House & Museum

Lake Roland Park

Maryland is home to more than 100 man-made lakes, and Lake Roland is the oldest in the state. The lake construction was completed in 1861, and today it is surrounded by Lake Roland Park in Baltimore, MD. The scenic park features multiple trails for hiking, biking, and running, plus a popular off-leash dog park. It’s also a great spot to bring kids for educational field trips at the Nature Center.

Some of the Lake Roland Park amenities include:

• Hiking trails
• Off-leash dog park
• Nature Center
• Ranger Station
• Pavillions and picnic areas
• Fishing piers

Herring Run Park

Herring Run Park is a 375-acre wooded park located in northeast Baltimore. Surrounded by beautiful trees, the Herring Run stream flows throughout the entire park. Generally, many nature enthusiasts choose Herring Run Park as their destination due to the more rugged landscape compared to other city parks in the state. Hikers and bikers can take the trail along the meandering stream and enjoy some fresh air while remaining in the city.

Herring Run Park is also home to numerous Maryland wildlife species, including the Great Blue Heron and the white egret.

Activities to do in Herring Run Park include:

• Fishing
• Birdwatching
• Picnicking
• Sports including basketball and soccer

Patterson Park

Located in Baltimore, MD, Patterson Park consists of 295 acres of nature, scenic views, and history. This park played a key role during the War of 1812, with Hampstead Hill acting as Baltimore’s defensive position against the British. As a result, the iconic pagoda still sits on the hill and is a popular attraction for tourists and locals to explore.

Visitors can also use Patterson Park for numerous outdoor activities like walking, running, kayaking, nature observing, and more. The Patterson Park amenities include:

• Playgrounds
• Athletic fields
• Basketball courts
• Swimming
• Picnic pavilions
• Patterson Park Boat Lake

Middle Branch Park

Middle Branch Park in Baltimore, MD, is located across the Veteran’s Memorial Bridge near Baltimore Inner Harbor. This waterfront park is against the shore of the Patapsco River and is a destination for the view alone. Also, it is popular for scenic views of the Baltimore skyline and a boardwalk to observe local wildlife.

The park has two fishing piers and two boat launches, making it easy for visitors to enjoy activities like rowing, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and crabbing. Additionally, Middle Creek Park is home to the Baltimore Rowing & Water Resource Center, where people can enjoy numerous water-based community activities.

The Middle Creek Park amenities include:

• Boat launches
• Fishing piers
• Wetlands
• Walking trails

Carroll Park

Carroll Park in Baltimore, MD, was originally part of the Mount Clare estate and owned by Charles Carroll. Today, it is the third oldest city park in Baltimore, consisting of 117 acres. Many locals take advantage of the extensive amenities, including baseball fields, The Carroll Park Golf Course, and walking trails.

Some of the activities you can enjoy at Carroll Park include:

• Walking/running
• Basketball
• Picnicking
• Skateboarding
• Hiking

Salisbury City Park

Nestled within the beautiful Maryland Eastern Shore is Salisbury City Park. This 107-acre park is in the heart of the city and is recognized by its octagonal bandstand and the arched pedestrian bridge over Beaverdam Creek. Many people use the park for exercise, nature viewing, dog walking, and mountain bike trails. Additionally, the Salisbury Zoo is located in the park.

Salisbury City Park amenities include:

• Walking paths
• Bike trails
• Dog parks
• Fishing
• Pavillions

Summary of the Nine Largest City Parks in Maryland

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