If you’re looking for an outdoorsy place to explore in Maryland, it can be difficult to choose where to go. With a plethora of state parks in the Old Line State, your options certainly aren’t limited. However, there’s one state park in particular that has a wide variety of natural and man-made attractions. You could spend several days exploring this woodsy slice of paradise, and still have more to see. This Maryland state park has everything an adventure lover needs.
Patapsco Valley State Park spans 32 miles, through parts of Howard, Baltimore, and Anne Arundel counties.
Flickr / Steve Kaminski
There are several different areas of the park, all offering a variety of things to see. This includes historic viaducts….
Flickr / Steve Kaminski
Picturesque bridges…
Flickr / Jack Lyons
And babbling brooks.
Flickr / Steve Kaminski
You can find Cascade Falls here, which is one of Maryland’s most beautiful waterfalls.
Flickr / Bart
Or check out Daniels Dam, which is a great spot to relax and take in the sights.
Flickr / Jack Lyons
One of the most popular attractions at the park is the swinging bridge.
Flickr / Chesapeake Bay Program
The bridge is quite unique, and this area also boasts spectacular foliage views during autumn.
Flickr / Nicolas Raymond
If you enjoy exploring abandoned places, there’s plenty of that to see at Patapsco Valley State Park.
Flickr / Jack Says Relax
The ruins of the old St. Mary’s College lie within the park, now rumored to be the place of haunted happenings.
Flickr / Jack Says Relax
You can also find the abandoned ghost town of Daniels.
Wikimedia Commons / Patorjk
This spot includes dilapidated churches…
Wikimedia Commons / Patorjk
And several old cars that have been left to decay in the woods.
Wikimedia Commons / Patorjk
The list of Patapsco Valley State Park’s features go on and on, including tunnels, railroad tracks, hiking trails, fishing, and camping. The park is incredibly diverse and may be one of the most unique places to explore in Maryland.
Flickr / Steve Kaminski
To learn more about Patapsco Valley State Park, visit the official website here.
Flickr / Steve Kaminski
Flickr / Jack Lyons
Flickr / Bart
Flickr / Chesapeake Bay Program
Flickr / Nicolas Raymond
Flickr / Jack Says Relax
Wikimedia Commons / Patorjk
Have you been to Patapsco Valley State Park? Be sure to also check out this amazing state park in Maryland.
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