May Updates
The Center(s) of Our Universe
Patapsco Valley State Park and Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area don't have just one center....we have FOUR! Come explore our universe this summer!
William Offutt Johnson History Center
5120 South Street, Halethorpe
Open Now! Weekends and Holidays, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Amenities available: Loaner fishing rods and Discovery backpacks.
Hilton Area Nature Center
1101 Hilton Avenue, Catonsville
Opening on May 18! Weekends and Holidays, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Features: Sensory Trail, Discovery backpacks, baby carriers, Storybook Trail, and more!
Soldiers Delight Visitor Center
5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills
Open Now! Daily, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Amenities available: Mining Kits, Discovery backpacks, Baby carriers, reptilian ambassadors, and more!
Public Aviary
Open Now! Weekends and holidays, 11 - 3 p.m.
Features: three of our raptor ambassadors.
Find us in any Patapsco Valley trailhead!
Featuring: Loaner fishing rods, park information, fun activities, and giveaways!
May Programs and Events
Click the calendar to register for a program.
Johnnycake Jolt
The Friends of Patapsco Valley State Park continues with its busy calendar of community-driven and volunteer-staffed events at the park. On Wednesdays and Thursdays in May, join us for a grassroots 10k trail run series, The Johnnycake Jolt, and our ever-popular MTB race series, The Punisher at Pickall.
These events highlight our incredible trail system, celebrate our diverse community, and raise resources for PVSP. Learn more at fpvsp.org.
May 4: The Basics of Fishing
10 a.m. - noon at Avalon Area, Lost Lake
Interested in fishing? Join us at Lost Lake in the Avalon Area to learn the basics of fishing as well as the importance of fish in the Patapsco River. Maximum 15 participants. Signup is encouraged, fishing license required for participants 16 years and older(the park does not sell them, please visit the DNR licensing website for information). Clear weather only.
May 5: STEM Like a Girl Hike
10 a.m. - 11 a.m. at Soldiers Delight Visitor Center
Join a member of park staff on this guided 2.5 mile hike along the Serpentine Trail, channeling the powers of your curiosity and observation to appreciate Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) subjects.
All are welcomed to this hike catered toward young women interested in STEM! Signup encouraged. Clear weather only.
May 10: Sunset Wildlife Paddle
7:30 p.m. at Daniels Dam: 2090 Daniels Road, Ellicott City
Join us for a two-hour, dusk canoe trip at Daniels Dam to view the wildlife that comes out in the evening. We will be accompanied by an underwater light-equipped paddleboard for viewing denizens of the deep river. Maximum is 16 people, recommended for all ages. PFDs are provided. Combined air and water temperature must be a combined minimum of 120 degrees; clear weather only. Signup is required.
May 14: Grandparents & Me: Fishing Trip
9-11 a.m. at Daniels Dam: 2090 Daniels Road, Ellicott City
Come take grandpa and grandma out fishing as we explore the basics of fishing. We’ll learn about the different types of fish and how to identify them. Please bring water, a snack, and a chair. We will provide the fishing pole and tackle box, though you are welcome to bring your own. A Maryland non-tidal fishing license is required for participants 16 years and older (the park does not sell them, please visit the DNR licensing website for information). Clear weather only. Signup is encouraged. The event has a maximum of 24 participants.
May 18: Exploring the Wonders of Our Solar System: A Journey Across Planetary Realms
8-11 p.m. at Soldiers Delight Visitor Center
Tonight, we embark on a cosmic voyage, traversing the vast expanse of space to unveil the marvels and mysteries that inhabit our celestial neighborhood. We will embark on a grand tour of our solar system, from the scorching inferno of Mercury to the icy depths of the Kuiper Belt. Along the way, we will encounter gas giants adorned with swirling storms, rocky worlds scarred by eons of cosmic collisions, and icy moons harboring secrets of their own. Signup is encouraged.
May 24: Invasive Species Removal with Maryland Conservation Corps
10-11 a.m., at Avalon Area, Shelter 104
Join the Maryland Conservation Corps in our fight against invasive species! We’ll be using shovels, loppers, and other hand tools to remove Japanese Knotweed, which has a harmful impact on our native ecosystem. Signup is required to ensure parking and tool quantities. Recommended for ages 10 and older. Clear weather only.
Featured Explorer Series of the month:
LITTLE EXPLORERS!
This program is designed for kids three years and younger, along with their parents/guardians, as we introduce them to the natural world. Families are invited to come for one or all six of the series, held each Friday from May 24 to June 21. We start each day with a fun song, story or “get loose” activity and wrap up each day with activities you can do at home. Weather dependent. Spots are available for 20 participants. Signup is encouraged.
Every Friday from May 24 - June 21: 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Save the Date for these upcoming events and programs!
June 1 & 8: Free Fishing Day
June 2: Black Birders Week Celebration
June 15: The Quest for Cosmic Companions
July 4:Free Fishing Day
July 22-26: Junior Rangers - Summer 2024; sign up online.
Trail Etiquette Reminder
Please be mindful of your fellow trail users. Visitors enjoy our trails in many different ways. Some users run for exercise, some use binoculars as they stroll, many are on bikes, while others ride a horse. Yet all users are part of the Patapsco Valley State Park trail community! Please follow proper trail etiquette to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
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 2024 events. Learn more on their website.
Please support our shared natural resources – we can’t do it without you!
Check out the Friends of Patapsco Valley State Park website for information about projects, events, and how you can support your park.
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 annualState Park and Trail Passportgrants 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.
