outdoors – Baltimore Magazine

Spring is in Full Swing in Baltimore County

Megan McGaha — Tue, 03 May 2022 20:08:06 +0000

This is the perfect moment to shake off winter and get back out with friends and family. With its convenient location, Baltimore County is an ideal destination for travelers from afar or those who want to explore something new in their own town.

Life sure has had its ups and downs in recent years, but one thing has stayed the same: Baltimore County is a lively home to a wide array of activities to suit any interest. Our parks, restaurants, shops, recreational areas, and golf courses are open for everyone to safely enjoy.

In the following pages we provide you with information that is sure to inspire your next outing. Cuisine connoisseurs will appreciate a taste of all that we have to offer, from farm-fresh produce to world-class restaurants and wine from locally grown grapes.

We offer charming main streets for strolling, the perfect way to shop small. For families looking to reconnect, Baltimore County has outdoor adventure, arts, athletic, and recreational activities that will surely entice even the most reluctant in the family to put down that device and enjoy some fresh air.

It’s time to get back to play again. Whether you’re ready to pick up the game of golf, want to return to open air concerts, or are looking for a way to amp up your fitness practice (paddle pilates, anyone?), let Baltimore County welcome you with all we have to offer.

The construction of the Milton Inn dates to the mid-18th century and it began its life as a coach stop for local Quakers. It is still a haven of hospitality in Baltimore County, only now it welcomes diners with discerning palates from all around the region.

“OUR LONG-TIME CLIENTS AND OUR NEW NEIGHBORS HAVE BEEN SO ENTHUSIASTIC. ALSO IT’S NOT HALF BAD FOR A CITY BOY LIKE ME TO GET TO ENJOY THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRYSIDE OF NORTHERN BALTIMORE COUNTY EVERYDAY. ” — TONY FOREMAN

The announcement that the Foreman-Wolf Group were going to reopen The Milton Inn— its first restaurant in the county—created a shockwave of culinary joy.

Foreman-Wolf refreshed the historic building’s interiors and kitchen, opening the restaurant in 2021 under the guidance of chef and coowner, Chris Scanga. Today, The Milton Inn offers cuisine focused on the Southwest of France showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients from over two dozen of the mid-Atlantic’s finest farms and purveyors.

Looking to taste more of what Baltimore County offers? Try these delectable destinations:

THE TILLERY, OWINGS MILLS
Dine in on classic American fare and craft beverages or enjoy sitting outside, perhaps around the firepit.
thetilleryowingsmills.com

PERENNIAL, TOWSON
Enjoy Chef Jay Rohlfing’s innovative, seasonally-inspired menu and a “robust cocktail program,” right in the heart of Towson.
perennialtowson.com

LA FOOD MARKETA, PIKESVILLE
Chefs Chad Gauss and Johntay Bedingfield bring the same quality of its sister restaurant in the city, The Food Market, to Quarry Lake.
lafoodmarketa.com

SUNSET COVE, MIDDLE RIVER
This beach bar and restaurant with its perfect waterfront view is the place to enjoy long, warm summer days and evenings.
sunsetcovemd.com

THE HUB, CATONSVILLE
This food hall features cuisine from multiple vendors so you can sample everything from Korean street food to all things hot pot goodness. There’s even a Montessori-inspired kids play area.
thehubfoodcourt.com

BOORDY VINEYARDS, HYDES
Enjoy everything from a tour of the vineyard to food truck cuisine and farmers’ markets, all with a sip of wine from one of the county’s oldest vintners.
boordy.com

Catonsville became Baltimore County’s first state-recognized Arts and Entertainment District in 2020. The award was given by the Maryland State Arts Council, and it is easy to see why. Catonsville is home to a host of live music venues and shops—and places like Bill’s Music House and Appalachian Bluegrass Shoppe that are both shops and live music destinations. Perhaps it’s no surprise the Maryland General Assembly dubbed it, “Music City, Maryland.”

But there’s more to Catonsville than just great music, and many of its charms are best explored on foot with a leisurely stroll down Frederick Avenue. Here you will find enticing places to shop small, such as locally owned antique shops, boutiques, and artisan food markets. And whether you need a restorative jolt of caffeine or a delicious meal to recharge during your saunter, Catonsville features coffee shops and restaurants to suit all tastes.

With Catonsville leading the way, Baltimore County is sure to continue its growth as a recognized center of arts and entertainment.

Looking for more places to stroll and shop local? Be sure to visit the county’s retail hubs:

TOWSON: The county seat features small shops, boutiques, and great restaurants.

HUNT VALLEY: While the energetic town center is Hunt Valley’s heart, don’t miss the small shops, garden centers, and markets along York Road.

REISTERSTOWN: From one end of Main Street to another you can pick up kids clothes at The Elephant’s Trunk, enjoy a coffee at Reister’s Daughter, and get ice cream, salon styling, and more in between

Do you have an aspiring golfer in your household or do you want to share your love of the game with a young person? The Fox Hollow Training Center (FHTC) in Timonium is the perfect place to start—or to get a seasonal refresher.

Golf is a sport a child can learn now and play for a lifetime. Since it’s noncontact, it’s a great way to exercise with less likelihood of injury.

At FHTC, children learn the game from trained professionals and are introduced to important life skills like integrity, sportmanship, and self-control.

The facilities at FHTC are top notch, including 60 hitting stations, three lighted putting greens, and practice bunkers. FHTC is routinely ranked nationally as a Top 50 Driving Range
by the Golf Range Association of America.

Now is the time to get in the swing of things, with special offers like professional instruction at reduced rates for juniors and reduced and/or complimentary access to any of Baltimore County Golf’s five courses for golfers 17 and under. Or take advantage of one of FHTC’s summer camps.

baltimoregolfing.com

Baltimore County has countless places to get out and connect with friends and family.
Here are just a few:

CROMWELL VALLEY PARK, PARKVILLE
Just minutes from Towson, this park encompasses 460 acres of stream valley and upland habitat, a combination that makes it perfect for birding. The nature center offers many programs or simply enjoy its hiking trails.
cromwellvalleypark.org

MARSHY POINT NATURE CENTER, CHASE
Sitting within a 3,000-acre nature preserve on the Upper Chesapeake, Marshy Point offers innnovative programs and exhibits for visitors, hiking trails, and Baltimore County’s first water trail for kayaking or canoeing!
marshypoint.org

BENGIES DRIVE-IN THEATRE, MIDDLE RIVER
Recapture a bygone era at Maryland’s only remaining drive-in theatre. Featuring the “biggest movie theatre screen in the USA,” Bengies is a great spot to enjoy the latest blockbuster.
bengies.com

PRIGEL FAMILY CREAMERY, GLEN ARM
At the scenic Prigel Creamery enjoy a scoop of chocolate peanut butter, caramel pretzel, or even a choose-your-own ice cream sandwich, while the farm’s dairy cows graze happily in their pastures. P.S.: They serve way more than ice cream!
prigelfamilycreamery.com

HAMPTON NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE, TOWSON
In 1790, Hampton was perhaps the largest home in America. Today, the architecturally significant home and surrounding site offer a chance to explore and gain a deeper understanding of the complex history of our nation.
nps.gov/hamp

There’s no better way to spend a hot, humid summer day than lazing down the Gunpowder River in a tube. The always cool and shaded river winds its way by pastures and woodlands, meandering parallel to the NCR hike and bike trail. Tubing is the antidote for harried lives.

The Monkton Bike shop, housed in the historic Monkton village, offers tubes for rent for kids and adults. It has also marked two tubing routes accessible by foot. Simply walk north on the NCR trail and look for the blue tree markers to find the path where you put in at the river. When you coast under the Monkton Road bridge you’ve reached the end of your float.

The Gunpowder is generally tranquil and often shallow enough to walk and splash in, making it a perfect outing even with young kids.

Looking for more outdoor adventures?
Here are a few destinations to add to your summer bucket list:

LOCH RAVEN RESERVOIR
The protected woodlands around the reservoir feature 60 miles of hiking trails while its calm waters are perfect for kayaking.
baltimorecountymd.gov/departments/environment/watersheds/lrmain.html

NCR (TORREY C. BROWN) TRAIL
Whether you’re a runner, walker, or biker, the nearly 20 miles of trail following the meandering path of the former Northern Central Railway (NCR) offers optimal conditions. Just look out for tubers sharing the path on hot summer days!
dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/central/tcb.aspx

B’MORE SUP
Interested in paddle pilates? Or a board excursion with your pup? Whether you simply want to try staying upright in a begininers paddle board class or you’re ready for yogaflo on your board, the three locations of B’More SUP are here to help.
baltimoresup.com

ROCKY POINT GOLF COURSE
Go for par—which is 72, by the way—on this exceptional course set in meandering natural wetlands, the only waterfront course on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay.
baltimoregolfing.com/course/rocky-point

PATAPSCO VALLEY STATE PARK
There are 200 miles of hiking trails inside the park’s more than 16,000 acres. See for yourself why the park is nationally recognized for its trail system and scenic beauty.
dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/central/patapsco.aspx

Source

The Great Cicada Invasion Returns to Maryland

Lauren Cohen — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 15:19:23 +0000

University of Maryland professor emeritus of entomology Michael Raupp. —Photography by Mike Morgan

A natural wonder is about to take place in the state of Maryland, and with every ounce of his being, Michael Raupp is here for it.

You might have heard the University of Maryland professor emeritus of entomology talking about it on the morning radio or nightly news. He’s a bonafide bug expert, featured on the likes of the Today Show and Good Morning America. And right now, he’s particularly excited about the massive number of cicadas about to emerge here for the first time in 17 years.

“This is the Super Bowl for cicada researchers,” says Raupp, who lives in Columbia. “This is a spectacular natural event that happens but just a few times in a human’s lifetime. It’s going to be full of every interesting element of biology and natural history. There’s going to be birth, death, sex, adventure. And it’s coming to your own backyard.”

There are two types of cicadas—annual cicadas, also known as dog-day cicadas, which appear every year from July to September—and periodical cicadas, which arise every 13 or 17 years from May through June. Different species of periodical cicadas are broken up into geographically defined broods, such as Brood X, which live between Georgia and New York.

They evolved here millions of years ago, with their life cycles spent mostly underground, where they feed on tree roots, emerging so rarely and in such large numbers to ward off potential predators, solely to reproduce. And on that 17th year, when the cicadas of Brood X finally arrive, as if by some ancient clockwork, they will do so only once the soil reaches approximately 64 degrees.

“It’s a cue that the world is now warm enough for them to come up to earth,” says Raupp. “First thing they do is get up, make a mad dash for any tree or vertical structure. They shed their skins, harden their exoskeleton, fly up into the treetops, and begin the big romance. These are teenagers, they’ve been under ground for 17 years. It’s been a real COVID experience down there . . .They sing their hearts out, mate, lay eggs, and their puny little lives will be over in four to six weeks.” The offspring will then fall back to the ground, not to return again until 2038.

—Courtesy of Michael Raupp

Of course, the ascension of so many winged insects—with an estimated one million per acre in certain areas—is not everyone’s idea of a good time, but Raupp has been intrigued by nature since childhood. Growing up in New Jersey, he once dreamed of becoming the next Jacques Cousteau, before eventually being drawn toward entomology in college.

“Those guys were always outside running around with bug nets in T-shirts and sneakers—I thought that sounded like a good career,” says Raupp, who earned his master’s degree at College Park. It was here, during the last cicada emergence in 2004, that he was asked to help handle the bug’s poor public relations—a quest that’s become a calling. His Bug of the Week blog and YouTube series has thousands of views each month.

“At the time, media outlets said, ‘Oh my god, it’s going to be the plague,’” says Raupp. “Part of my mission is to try to open up people’s minds to the wonders and fascination of insects. Especially youngsters, to help them become ambassadors for the natural world.”

At least some of the hysteria surrounding 17-year-old cicadas has to do with their location, as large populations of cicadas ultimately intersect with large populations of humans. Maryland will be the epicenter, with Brood X’s largest concentration having taken root in the region eons ago, where perhaps trillions of cicadas will begin to emerge at the end of the month. There will be relatively few on the Eastern Shore or in Southern Maryland, says Raupp, but plenty in and around Baltimore, particularly in green spaces, like Oregon Ridge Park.

“If you live in an area that had cicadas in 2004, you’re highly likely to have them again, and if you didn’t, it’s unlikely you will,” he says. “And if you don’t know, ask your neighbors.”

A nuisance to some, cicadas are harmless to humans—any mid-air insect is simply trying to get to the treetops to find a mate—though they might make pandemic-friendly outdoor dining “even more memorable,” says Raupp. They’ll be petering out by the first days of summer, but while they’re here, he’ll be conducting several studies, including on the potential impacts of urbanization and climate change.

“We’ve had a dreary year with COVID, we’ve had political unrest, we’ve had social injustice—this is your chance to get out of the house, go outside in the sunshine, and witness something that exists nowhere else in the universe,” says Raupp. “And if you really can’t take it, just go to Ocean City. Get out town for a few weeks.”

Source

An Updated Guide to Getting Outside During COVID-19

Lydia Woolever — Fri, 15 May 2020 11:11:00 +0000

This spring, one saving grace during the spread of the coronavirus across the state has been access to Maryland’s great outdoors. And now with Governor Hogan’s eased restrictions on many outdoor activities, as well as the stay-home order lifted for non-Baltimoreans, there are plenty of ways to safely get some more fresh air. Here’s the latest on getting outside during the continuing times of COVID-19. One key takeaway: not all has returned to normal.

PARKS

Maryland’s dozens of state parks offer a great escape during the times of a global health crisis. From the mountains of Western Maryland to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, most have remained open throughout the coronavirus pandemic, but several previously closed locations will now reopen as well, including Sandy Point outside of Annapolis, Assateague on the Eastern Shore, and Swallows Falls in Western Maryland.

Plan ahead for potential filled-to-capacity closures at the likes of Patapsco Valley, North Point, and Gunpowder’s Hammerman Area, as well as continued closed portions, such as the Houck Area of Cunningham Falls in Thurmont, certain trails at Elk Neck in Cecil County, and the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park in Cambridge. All visitor’s centers, administrative buildings, nature centers, and most concessions also remain close, while playgrounds have reopened for kids and families. All visitors are encouraged to social distance, as well as provide their own soap or hand sanitizer, stay home if sick, and visit parks close to their homes.

Meanwhile, all Baltimore City and County parks are still open to the public, as they also have been throughout the pandemic, with social distancing and face coverings encouraged, though the use of playgrounds and exercise equipment continues to be prohibited. The Canton, Latrobe, and Howard Street dog parks are limited to a maximum of five visitors at a time, while the Patterson Park dog park is limited to 10.

CAMPING

If one thing is certain in these uncertain times, there’s never been a better one to sleep under the stars. With the wide-scale reopening of state parks, several state-owned campgrounds, which typically make up some 2,000 campsites, will also begin reopening on a gradual basis for tent and RV camping, though cabin rentals currently remain closed as locations consider reopening strategies. All campers must be with immediate family members or people with whom they reside, in groups of no more than 10, and abiding by social distancing guidelines. For reservations, visit the Department of Natural Resources’s website.

BEACHES

With the announcement of the lifting of the state’s stay-home order, we could almost feel the traffic begin to build at the Bay Bridge. Though previously closed in their entirety, all state-owned beaches, including Hammerman Beach at Gunpowder Falls, as well as Hart-Miller Island, Calvert Cliffs, and Assateague have now reopened, though do note that the latter’s National Seashore is still off-limits. Under social distancing guidelines, most forms of outdoor exercise can resume, such as walking, running, swimming, and fishing. But leave the seating home, as chairs, blankets, and picnics are still prohibited.

Meanwhile, Ocean City has reopened to the general public with social distancing and gathering limitations in place. It’s largely business as usual, besides beachcombers being encouraged to remain at least six feet apart and in groups no larger than 10. Lifeguards are on duty for swimming, boardwalk restaurants are open for carryout, and lodgings have since reopened to visiting guests. Up the road, however, out-of-state visitors are still prohibited from the likes of Dewey, Rehoboth, and Bethany beaches until at least May 31 under Delaware’s stay-home order, which remains in place. Many restrictions apply to locals, as well, such as bans on sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.

BOATING

After weeks of pressure on Governor Hogan, recreational boating is back on the Chesapeake Bay and its surrounding waterways. In addition to personal watercraft like kayaks and canoes, the use of both motor and sail boats is once again permitted after a brief hiatus during the recent stay-home order.

All boaters must be with immediate family members or those with whom they reside and in accordance of social distancing guidelines. Regardless of vessel size, parties larger than 10 are prohibited, as are gatherings on the likes of piers, boat ramps, beaches, or via raft-ups, in addition to docking at waterfront restaurants. Many marinas have already reopened, though they may do so at their own discretion, so be sure to call ahead. Be it on water or land, recreational fishing has reopened, too, where standard rules and regulations still apply.

GOLF

If there was ever an ideal sport for social distancing in the great outdoors, golf would be it, and sod is once again soaring across the state, with Maryland courses now permitted to reopen at their own discretion. Open greens in the Baltimore area include Bulle Rock in Havre De Grace, Rocky Point in Essex, Greystone in White Hall, and Fox Hollow in Timonium, as well as all Classic Five courses, with tee times reserved online and all high-touch items removed from clubhouses, cars, and ranges. Restrictions and safety measures vary from location to location, though all golf carts are limited to two players from the same household.

Source

Camp Guide 2015

Mike Smith — Sun, 08 Dec 2019 23:06:50 +0000

It’s not quite time to bust out the bathing suits,
but if you’re a parent, there’s one bit of summer prep you do need to tackle: finding the
perfect summer camp for your kids.

Fortunately, we’re flush with options—Maryland boasts some 1,400 summer camps, which means choosing may be the hardest part.

Camp Options

Arts, Academia, & Skills Camps
Medical/Special Needs Camps
Nature Camps
Religious Camps

Sports Camps
Traditional Summer Camps
Visual & Performing Arts Camps

Arts, Academia, & Skills Camps

Aviation and Pilot Camp

Middle River Aviation

701 Wilson Point Rd., Ste. 402

Middle River, MD 21220

410-574-3897

Middle River Aviation’s aviation and pilot camp for ages 13-18, operated from its location at Martin State Airport, offers flight lessons, training in navigation, and access to a full-motion simulator, as well as a trip to the Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., guest speakers, and swimming, as well. Dates are June 23-27, July 7-11, and August 11-15.

Community Art Center of Towson University

Summer Art Camp

On Campus, Towson University

Address: Community Art Center of TU

Towson University

8000 York Rd.

Towson, MD 21252-0001

410-704-2351

Campers ages 6-14, grouped by age, study drawing, painting, clay, and sculpture. An extended-day option is available. Later in the summer, there is also a computer-graphics workshop for high school students ages 14 through adults, including anime, cartoon, and game animation. Sessions run June 22-Aug. 7. $300-520. All supplies and field trip fees included.

Circus Camp Stars

Where: Multiple locations, including McDonogh School and Roland Park Country School

When: One-week sessions throughout the summer; usually 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Cost: $225-385

Info: 410-833-6763

If you can picture your little clown happily learning to juggle, walk a tightrope, spin plates, or ride a unicycle, Circus Camp Stars may be just the ticket. Aimed at kids ages 7 to 15, the camp is taught by full-time professional entertainers—many are Ringling Bros. trained—and includes a Friday performance for campers to show off their newly learned skills. And while campers may be chiefly focused on mastering the tricks of the trade, “the most important thing they learn is that nothing comes without a little bit of work,” a life skill with long-lasting benefits, says Circus Camp Stars’s Michael Rosman.

Camp Jemicy

11 Celadon Rd.

Owings Mills, MD 21117

410-753-8032

A five-week summer day program for students ages 6-14 who experience difficulties associated with a language-based learning difference and dyslexia. Also offered is Orton-Gillingham-based tutoring based on 4:1 or small-group skills instruction and tutoring. In addition, outdoor activities, art, crafts, drama, and swimming instruction are offered. June 29-July 31. Call for pricing. Students must apply.

Maryland Leadership Workshops

Washington College

Chestertown, MD

301-444-8623

Contact: Anita Durall Anderson

Three one-week residential programs—the Middle School Experience in Leadership, the Senior High Workshop, and the Advanced Leadership Seminar—help students develop the skills to excel as leaders in their schools and communities. Through innovative leadership activities and engaging group challenges, students interact with peers and staff to discover their own unique leadership style. Middle school July 19-25; high school July 26-Aug. 1; Advanced July 12-18. Call for rates.

Cooking Camp Classic

99 Painters Mill Rd.

Owings Mills, MD 21117

410-356-1666

Contact: Jackie Shugarman

jshugarman@classiccatering.com

Cooking Camp Classic will inspire apron-clad kids to create dishes that are fun for the whole family to prepare. Junior chefs ages 5-16 get their hands into the ingredients and bring home a dinner for four to share with family and friends. Class themes include Asian Street Food, Roman Holiday, Picnic in the Park, Sweet + Savory Bakery, and Culinary Improv. Camp runs for five weeks starting in June 2015. Children and teens will receive 1.5 hours of instruction, dinner buffet, T-shirt (one per child) and a meal prepared by the kids to take home. Cooking Camp Classic is $85 per class. All classes are 6-8 p.m.

Gilman Summer!

5407 Roland Ave.

Baltimore, MD 21210

410-323-3800

Contact: Maryann Wegloski

410-323-3800, ext. 279

mwegloski@gilman.edu

Enrichment and skill-building programs for girls and boys grades one to 12 designed and taught by Gilman faculty and field experts. Courses include an extensive art program, S.T.E.M. courses, outdoor education, SAT prep classes, science, math, foreign language, and sports camps. Classes include Make your first Game App, LEGO Films and Animation, Young Engineers, Surf and Skate Art, Young Explorers Nature Camp, Studio Drawing and Painting, Summer at Hogwarts, Clay and Sculpture Course, and more. Sessions run June 15-July 24.

Award-Winning Lavner Camps

Towson University

8000 York Rd.

Towson, MD 21252

610-664-8800

info@lavnercamps.com

Contact: Justin Lavner

Lavner Camps offers the following summer camps for Summer 2015: 3D Minecraft™ Camp, Computer Programming Camp, Robotics Camp, Video Game Design Camp with Apps, Fashion Design Camp, Jewelry Design Camp, Filmmaking Camp, and Chess Camp. Campers may attend for one week or multiple weeks. Early-arrival, extended-day, and private lessons are available. Ages 6 to 12. Weekly camps available from June 22 to August 14. CIT Leadership Program for motivated 13- to 15-year olds also available.

Visual & Performing Arts Camps

Howard County Arts Council

8510 High Ridge Rd.

Ellicott City, MD 21043

410-313-2787

Council programs are held at the Howard County Center for the Arts, which includes resident artists’ studios, two professional galleries, a dance studio, the black box theatre for performing arts and the offices of the Howard County Arts Council, The Columbia Orchestra and the Howard County Ballet. Students may select from age-appropriate visual and performing arts camps including pop art, Shakespeare, recycled art, and much more. Programs are open to the public, regardless of residency in Howard County, for grades K-7. June 22-Aug. 14.

The International School of Protocol

Where: Various schools

When: One-week camps starting in June; dates and times vary.

Cost: $150-250 depending on location and camp

Info: 410-832-7555

Offering nine different camps at various locations, the School of Protocol instructs kids as young as 4 on everything from table manners and kindness to how to be a good listener. Camps for older kids focus on communication skills, the art of conversation, interviewing, networking, and more—all aimed at gaining a competitive edge “so you can be noticed for all the right reasons,” says School of Protocol’s Cathleen Hanson.

Roland Park Country School

Kaleidoscope Lifelong Learning

5204 Roland Ave.

Baltimore, MD 21210

410-323-5500

RPCS offers a variety of day camps and programs for both boys and girls ages 3-18. Offerings currently planned include arts, science and tech, nature, language, athletics, computer-oriented programs, and more. Program dates vary from June 16-Aug. 22. Call for a complete catalogue and prices.

RockStar Jam

The Park School

410-296-1131

Now in its third summer, this camp is for children ages 8 to 19 who want to sing or play guitar, bass, drums, piano, or ukulele. Kids spend the week taking musical instruction, forming and rehearsing with a band (formally and in more freewheeling jam sessions), creating professional-quality recordings, songwriting, and preparing for an end-of-week performance that pulls out all the stops—including light show and fog machine. Downtime is woven into the week so kids can just hang out, catch a celebrity guest performance, or take a lesson in an instrument they’ve never tried. July 20-24; 9 a.m.-5 p.m., with drop-off as early as 8 and pickup as late as 5:45. $449.

Camp Jurassic

Where: Roland Park Country School

When: Dates not yet available; 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; can be paired with other half-day camps; before- and after-care available

Cost: $240

Details: 410-323-5500

Introduced last year, Camp Jurassic proved hugely popular with dino-loving little ones. Campers spend their time learning about different dinosaur types and habitats and studying fossils, rocks, and minerals. If dinosaurs aren’t your child’s thing, RPCS also offers a host of other camps, including the ever popular Fairy Fantasy Camp (now offered for two sessions due to its growing waiting list), Crime Scene Investigation Camp, and Peace Camp.

Summer Camp at The Odyssey School

3257 Bridle Ridge Ln.

Stevenson, MD 21153

410-580-5551

campwindward@theodysseyschool.org

Contact: Robyn Wagner

The Odyssey School’s camp is a specialized five-week summer program for children with dyslexia, for first grade through eighth grade, is held on the school’s 42-acre wooded campus in Baltimore County. Camp Windward incorporates an individualized, structured academic experience in the mornings, designed to promote ongoing skill development in the areas of reading, written language, and math, followed by afternoons of outdoor activities and athletics. Sessions June 22 to July 24.

JA BizTown Summer Venture

Junior Achievement of Central Maryland

10711 Red Run Blvd., Ste. 110

Owings Mills, MD 21117

Contact: Rebecca Golloub

410-753-3289

Imagine getting your dream job, operating a business, marketing it, honing your money management skills and running an entire city. Junior Achievement of Central Maryland offers 9-to-12-year-olds the opportunity to do all this and more during the 10th season of its summer camp, the JA BizTown Summer Venture, June 22-26. Children will learn important concepts for earning, spending and saving that will prepare them for a successful future. This year, kids will not only benefit from leaning fiscal fitness, but physical fitness as well, with the addition of special fitness activities from the Y of Central Maryland’s Fit N Fun program. June 23-27. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., $250.

Park School of Baltimore

Park Camps and Summer Programs

2425 Old Court Rd.

Baltimore, MD 21208

410-339-7070

June 22-31

This summer, children age 3 1/2 and up are exposed to dynamic experiences in the tradition of The Park School of Baltimore. Park¹s unique approach to learning and growing flourishes amid the beauty of the wooded 100-acre campus. 2015 sessions include general day camps (Cubs, Bears, & Bruins) as well as special-focus camps that provide opportunities for intrepid girls and boys (Are We There Yet? Excursion Camp), plus programs in field hockey and lacrosse, as well as baby-sitting and daycare camps. Go online for details and registration.

Young FilmMakers Camp

1502 Woodlawn Dr.

Woodlawn, MD 21207

443-552-4821

Now in its second year, Young FilmMakers Camp is developed and run by local filmmaker Calvin Watkins Jr. and his two sons to teach kids aged 7 to 15 how to shoot, edit, and distribute high-quality films and videos. Campers learn how to create digital films with an iPad, getting practice in everything from scriptwriting and framing camera shots to editing and producing a finished work. Field trips get them out of the classroom and into the real world to explore a chosen topic and let their cameras roll. June 15-Aug. 21, 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. $99-135 a week, includes breakfast, lunch, snacks and field trips.

i2 Science Camp

Bryn Mawr School

Like many of the area’s private schools, Bryn Mawr has a full range of summer camp offerings from sports and the arts to academics. And last year it added a new collection of camps that let campers in grades five through eight dive deep into the world of science. A partnership with i2 Camps focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and offers up courses for fifth graders and middle schoolers in engineering prosthetics devices, robotics, digital game design, and building vertical farms, among other things. June 15-July 10; 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with early dropoff and late pickup available for fee. $800 per week; discounts for enrolling for multiple weeks.

Debate Camp

Loyola University Maryland

800-450-5012

Though it’s perfect for your oratory extrovert, this also might be a fit for a child “who is shy or can’t talk to more than two people without their knees shaking,” says Ron Blatt, CEO of Capitol Debate, which has run debate camps at Loyola for 8 years and in the DC area for 16.

Programs—from middle school debate camp and public forum debate camp to public speaking camp—include an overnight or day-only option and are run by experienced debate coaches. A creative writing camp lets eighth graders and high schoolers hone their literary skills, but be warned, these camps sell out quickly.

July 12-24. $2,295-3,395 for a two-week session.

AVAM’s Summer Arts Program

American Visionary Arts Museum

410-244-1900

If you’ve got a budding artist with an eye for the unusual, the American Visionary Arts Museum’s summer arts program might be just the place. The camp, which runs for three weeks in July, lets kids in grades 3 through 8 get creative, with visiting artists leading instruction and lots of hands-on artwork, songwriting, museum exploration, art education, and more. Three weeks in July, Tues-Fri.; 9 a.m.-4 p.m.. Call for dates. $250 for non-members; $200 for members.

Nature Camps

Carrie Murray Nature Center Summer Camp

1901 Ridgetop Rd.

Baltimore, MD 21207

410-396-0808

West Baltimore is the perfect setting for this city-run day camp that specializes in Native-American and African-American activities and nature and environmental studies. The camp is situated on a 1,200-acre wilderness park. Coed for ages 5-13. June 29-August 7. $180.

Camp Puh’Tok

17433 Big Falls Rd.

Monkton, MD 21111

410-329-6590

This rustic camp has more than 70 years of experience to offer for boys and girls ages 5-16. Campers learn Native-American culture, ecology, sailing, horseback riding, canoeing, hiking and American Heritage skills. Sessions from June 23-Aug. 15. Prices vary. Day camp ages 5-9; sleepaway 7-16.

Irvine Nature Center

11201 Garrison Forest Rd.

Owings Mills, MD 21117

443-738-9200

The Irvine Nature Center is a nonprofit environmental education organization providing a variety of year-round programs and special events for children, adults and families. This summer, Irvine will offer its expanded Summer Nature Camp at its location in Owings Mills. Week-long sessions are available for children ages 2-15 from June 8 through August 21. Activities include: hiking, biking, canoeing, aquatics, animal encounters, puppet shows, plant ecology, and story times. Register online, rates vary.

Religious Camps

Beth Tfiloh Camps

400 Delight Meadows Rd.

Reisterstown, MD 21136

410-517-3451

Every summer, hundreds of boys and girls ages 2-eighth grade enjoy a variety of activities at this day camp, including outdoor living skills, a rope course, drama, music, sports, boating, swim instruction, and arts and crafts. Transportation is available. Two- to eight-week programs offered at various prices. June 22-Aug. 14.

Capital Camps

12750 Buchanan Trail East

Waynesboro, PA 17268

717-794-2177

This camp serves the Jewish community in Baltimore, Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia. Boys and girls (rising third graders through rising 12th graders) participate in a wide variety of activities that range from arts and athletics to activities celebrating Jewish culture. Two-week to eight-week sessions are available. Special-needs campers are mainstreamed into the regular program. June 21-August 9. Prices vary. (See website for specific details.)

Camp Airy

14938 Old Camp Airy Rd.

Thurmont, MD 21788

301-271-4636

(See Camp Airy and Camp Louise for office information.)

Camp Louise

24959 Pen Mar Rd.

Cascade, MD 21719

301-241-3661

(See Camp Airy and Camp Louise for office information.)

The Camp Airy and Camp Louise Office

5750 Park Heights Ave., Ste. 306

Baltimore, MD 21215

410-466-9010

airlou@airylouise.org

Camps Airy and Louise have been serving Jewish children entering grades 2 through 12 for more than 90 years. Both Camp Airy’s 450-acre site in Thurmont and Camp Louise’s 400 acres in Cascade are in the Catoctin Mountains of Western Maryland. Children enjoy a wide variety of athletic activities, rock climbing, swimming, drama, music, and more during two-to-eight-week sessions. June 19-Aug. 9. Prices vary.

JCC Camps at Milldale

5425 Mt. Gilead Rd.

Reisterstown, MD 21136

410-559-3513

Campers enjoy lake and nature activities, cooking, arts, sports, science, Israeli culture, award-winning swim lessons, and much more. Day camp for grades K-6, arts camps for grades three through eight, and LIT program for grades nine and 10. Two- to eight-week options and extended-day available. June 22-August 14.

Noah’s Ark Camp at the JCC

5700 Park Heights Ave.

Baltimore, MD 21215

410-500-5936

3506 Gwynnbrook Ave.

Owings Mills, MD 21117

410-559-3557

The JCC offer a nurturing environment for preschoolers, ages 2-5 to explore, discover and grow. Both locations offer swim lessons, music and movement, amazing playgrounds, Israeli culture, Shabbat programs, and professional educators. Half and full day, and four-, six-, and eight-week options available. June 22-August 14.

Camp Pecometh

136 Bookers Wharf Rd.

Centreville, MD 21617

410-556-6900

The mission of this coed Christian camp is to provide a faith environment that promotes life-changing experiences in a traditional camp setting, as well as archery, sailing, crafts, and games. For grades k-11. June 21-Aug. 21. Call for prices.

Camp Wright

400 Camp Wright Ln.

Stevensville, MD 21666

410-643-4171

Operated by the Episcopal Diocese of Easton, this camp has day and residential programs that capitalize on its location on the Chesapeake Bay. While learning Christian ideals, campers in grades K-11 can sail, canoe, learn sports and nature studies, and even take wilderness-adventure excursions. June 22-Aug. 15. Coed. Call for prices.

Medical/Special Needs Camps

Camp Friendship at the Carol Jean Cancer Foundation

Elk Neck State Park

North East, MD

410-531-0758

Camp Friendship, the premier program of the Carol Jean Cancer Foundation, was founded in 1991, as a place to let kids with cancer enjoy a care-free summer at camp without the worry of medical care or a financial burden. The camp is free to all its campers, ages 7-17, and includes a staff of medical personnel. A physician is on site everyday and several pediatric oncology nurses are there day and night. Campers enjoy swimming, boating, zip-lines and arts and crafts. One five-day session, call for dates.

Camp Superkids

Summit Grove Camp

140 S. Front St.

New Freedom, PA 17349

717-578-0465

Camp Superkids is designed to provide a fun summer experience for children ages 7 ½ to 12 with asthma. In addition to asthma education, campers enjoy swimming, teambuilding, and arts and crafts. Scholarships are available.
July 12-17 at Summit Grove Camp in New Freedom.

Lions Camp Merrick/Camp Glyndon

P.O. Box 56

3650 Rick Hamilton Pl.

Nanjemoy, MD 20662

301-870-5858

Children who have diabetes or are blind, ages 6-16, enjoy fun times at Lions Camp Merrick/Camp Glyndon, located on a 300-acre campsite. This camp offers an educational approach to preventative health care. Children develop and enhance skills that encourage independence. For the diabetes camp, instructors teach children to manage their diets, plus a nursing and catering staff provides nutritious meals tailored to the children’s special needs. Children also enjoy outdoor activities including swimming, dancing, archery, campfires, and more during one-week sessions. June-August. Prices online.

The League at Camp Greentop

Office: The League for People with Disabilities

111 E. Cold Spring Ln.

Baltimore, MD 21239

410-323-0500

Camp Greentop in Sabillasville provides girls and boys with a traditional day and sleepover camp experience in a beautiful setting with the added benefit of a 2:1 staff-to-camper ratio. Campers with physical and mental conditions including epilepsy, HIV/AIDS, cerebral palsy, and autism participate in diverse activities in a safe and nurturing environment. There is also a weekend-long family camp offered in the spring. Summer sessions June-August (call for exact dates). Call for pricing.

Traditional Summer Camps

St. James Academy

3100 Monkton Rd.

Monkton, MD

410-771-4816
Contact: Elena Baranowski

St. James Academy offers a high-quality summer program for children ages 3 to 16. These coed activities provide exceptional camp experiences to nurture children’s growth academically, socially, athletically, spiritually, and emotionally in a secure and positive environment. Programs take place on St. James’ 89-acre campus which includes a 104,000-square-foot facility, playgrounds, athletic fields, tennis courts, basketball courts, gymnasium, and theatre. Camp dates run June 8 through August 28.

The John Carroll School Patriot Summer Camps

703 E. Churchville Rd.

Bel Air, MD 21014

410-879-2480

Contact: Tony Martin

tmartin@johncarroll.org

This summer there is no better place for your son or daughter to be than on the John Carroll School campus, participating in the Patriot Summer Camps. These programs provide a safe, fun environment for your child to play, learn, meet others, and experience new things, all on the 72-acre campus of the John Carroll School. Camps run June through August. Call for dates and rates.

Summer Programs at Beth El

Beth El Congregation

8101 Park Heights Ave.

Pikesville, MD 21208

410-484-0411

Beth El is now offering summer programs at two sites—Pikesville and Federal Hill. The Pikesville summer program is partnering with Coppermine Fieldhouse to create a camp specializing in ages 2 to 5 years old. Children at both sites will have a blast participating in age-appropriate games, sports, water play, rhythm and movement classes, and more. Camp session is from June 15 to August 7 with a 9 am-1 p.m. option and a 9 a.m.-4 p.m. option.

YMCA Camp Tockwogh

24370 Still Pond Neck Rd.

Worton, MD 21678

410-348-6000

This rural camp on 309 acres of Chesapeake Bay shoreline offers one- and two-week sessions from June 21-August 14 for kids in grades k-9. Traditional coed overnight camp plus sailing and equestrian programs.

Bricks 4 Kidz

443-636-0782

Contact: Michele Rigatuso, mrigatuso@bricks4kidz.com

Bricks 4 Kidz provides an extraordinary atmosphere for students age s 5-12 to build unique creations, play games, and have loads of fun using
LEGO® Bricks. The activities are designed to trigger young children’s lively imaginations and build their self-confidence. Campers will receive a T-shirt and take home a custom mini-figure. June-August.

Camp Alleghany for Girls

Storehouse Rd.

Lewisburg, WV 24901

877-446-9475
info@campalleghany.com

An overnight summer camp located in Greenbrier County, WV, Camp Alleghany offers programs to girls ages 7 to 16, with sessions of one or six weeks. Girls continue to enjoy the same customs and activities established 90 years ago, including archery, arts and crafts, canoeing, dance, drama, riflery, ropes, singing, sports and fitness, swimming, and tennis, with emphasis on the principles of sportsmanship, citizenship, cooperation, consideration for others, the honor system, and meaningful appreciation of the outdoors. Goals are achieved in a lively, relaxed, and fun setting, enhancing self-esteem and boosting confidence while the girls grow in leadership, maturity and responsibility.

Camp Friendship

573 Friendship Way

Palmyra, VA 22963

434-589-8950

ACA-accredited Camp Friendship provides more than 50 activities to choose from in one- and two-week sessions, including junior and teen programs (co-ed), plus an equestrian program for girls ages 9-16, and sports-specialized programs (such as tennis, water-skiing, gymnastics). June 14-August 15. $1,100-$1,275.

Camp Rock Summer Day Camp

1607 Cromwell Bridge Rd.

Baltimore, MD 21234

410-665-7461

Contact: Julie Traut, Director

director@camprockmd.com

Camp Rock offers nine weeks of theme-based fun for children ages 4-12. The summer program runs from June 15 through August 14, Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., offering nature trails, water activities, games, crafts, team building, on-site field trips, sports, horsemanship, and academic enrichment. Lunch and snacks included in all camper packages. $175-240.

Cape Cod Sea Camps

3057 Main St.

Brewster, MA 02631

508-896-3451

Contact: Dave Peterson

Established in 1922, Cape Cod Sea Camps, located on Cape Cod Bay, offers both co-educational resident and day camp for children ages 4 to 17 with approximately 300 day campers per week, and 400 overnight campers per session. Campers, who come from two dozen states and several foreign countries, are placed in eight units according to age, grade, and friendships. Activities include sailing, swimming, wind surfing, water skiing, archery, air riflery, arts and crafts, woodworking, cycling, tennis, team sports, and drama. Call for rates on overnight camp in sessions of 3.5 weeks and seven weeks. June 28-Aug. 15.

Preschool and Elementary & Middle School Summer Camps

Columbia Academy

10350 Old Columbia Rd.

Columbia, MD 21046

5 locations in Howard County

866-209-9183

Preschool camp is offered in four locations: Thunder Hill, Kendall Ridge, Kings Contrivance, and Maple Lawn. In this 13-week camp, children will read, learn, swim, and play. Elementary and middle-school campers come together at Columbia Academy for a summer of science experiments and activities including swimming, cooking, art, weekly field trips, games, and mental challenges with a S.T.E.M. (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) focus.

Grier Summer Camp

2522 Grier School Rd.

Tyrone, PA. 16686

814-684-3000, ext. 113

This all-girl residential summer program at the Grier School in Central Pennsylvania offers horseback riding, dance, art, drama, swimming, camping, and sports in one- to three-week sessions for girls ages 7-17. Also offered is an equestrian program for riders of various abilities. June14-Aug. 1. Prices vary.

Columbia Association Camps

10221 Wincopin Circle, Ste. 100

Columbia, MD 21044

410-715-3165

The Columbia Association operates 16 camps that have something for every child, whether it is art, basketball, nature, skating, or sailing. The various day camps provide activities for boys and girls in grades K-12. June 15-August 14. Prices vary.

Echo Hill Camp

13655 Bloomingneck Rd.

Worton, MD 21678

410-348-5303

This
sleep-away summer camp helps boys and girls age 7-16 build self-confidence and creative expression in an outdoor environment. Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore with 350 acres of wooded land and a mile of beach on the Chesapeake, activities offered include landsports, arts and crafts, and water sports such as water-skiing and sailing. June 21-Aug. 15. Prices vary.

Coppermine Fieldhouse

1400 Coppermine Terrace

Plus other locations

Baltimore, MD 21209

410-337-7781

Coppermine Fieldhouse, a 42,000-square-foot indoor facility on 12 acres, offers age-appropriate day camps for children 3 to 15 years of age, including a starter program, lifetime sports camp, team sports clinics, and a performing arts seminar. Gymnastics, rock climbing, team building, archery, tennis, and other specialty programs with swimming. Two and eight-week sessions offered June 1-Aug. 28.

Maryland 4-H Camps

(in various counties)

8020 Greenmead Dr.

College Park, MD 20740

301-314-7835

Every county and Baltimore City has a 4-H camp offered at various locations. The camps are open to all youths, boys and girls, ages 8-18. Resident and day programs provide the traditional camp experience. June-August. Prices vary.

McDonogh School Summer Programs

8600 McDonogh Rd.

Owings Mills, MD 21117

443-544-7100

For over 80 years, McDonogh has been offering summer programs for ages 4 to 18, including traditional day camps, academic experiences, and day and overnight sports clinics. The camps are conducted on McDonogh’s 800-acre campus, which includes stables and outdoor riding rings, two fishing ponds, two fully equipped playground areas, 20 tennis courts, and outdoor athletic fields, as well as rock-climbing tower and ropes course. Indoor facilities include a 54,000-square-foot field house with seven basketball courts, an aquatic center that includes an Olympic-size swimming pool, two indoor batting ranges, a wellness center, and a wrestling room. A fine arts center boasts a 588-seat theater with modern stage, lighting and sound, black box, music room, and set design room, and there are multiple computer labs, art rooms, classrooms, and dormitory space to accommodate over 100 students. Call or go online for programs, dates, and rates.

Summer at Bryn Mawr

109 W. Melrose Ave.

Baltimore, Md. 21210

410-323-1118

The Bryn Mawr School runs half- and full-day sports and creative camps for boys and girls, ages 3-15, from mid-June to mid-August. Held on their sprawling north Baltimore campus, programs include sports like field hockey and soccer, plus art, music, dance and enrichment programs, including such unique offerings as manners instruction, a doll camp, and a pets camp. Call or go online for rates. June 15-August 14.

Summer Fun at the Greenspring Montessori School

10807 Tony Dr.

Lutherville, MD 21093

410-321-8555
Contact: Shari Wolf

The Montessori School’s Summer Fun program, located on the school’s campus at the corner of Falls and Greenspring Valley Roads, offers a nurturing, non-competitive learning environment in a farm-like setting.

Programs are for children ages 18 months to 12 years and include recreational sports, nature, music, arts, science, toddler preschool and Summer Montessori. Call for rates. June 22-Aug. 7.

Nature Camps

17433 Big Falls Rd.

Monkton, MD 21111

410-935-1545

For over 40 years, Nature Camps has offered a unique family-based program for both parents and children ages 4-16, with an emphasis on outdoor adventure and environmental education. Programs are set on 228 acres of woodland bordering the Gunpowder River in Monkton. Call for prices. Two- to eight-week sessions. June 15-August 8.

Open Door

518 Virginia Ave.

Towson, MD 21286

410-825-6300

Open Door, a licensed child-care provider, has summer-camp programs offering swimming, field trips, crafts, nature, and sports activities. Weekly themes have included Mardi Gras, American Idol, and Down the Ocean. Locations are in Baltimore County and Anne Arundel County. Call for dates and prices.

Summer at Friends

5114 North Charles St.

Baltimore, MD 21210

410-649-3218

Friends School of Baltimore offers kids ages 4-13 a variety of programs and day camps in technology, music, art, drama, and sports. Extended-day hours are available. Call for precise dates; camp sessions planned for June 15-August 1. Parents choose the length of sessions up to eight weeks. Fees vary.

Sandy Hill Camp

3380 Turkey Point Rd.

North East, MD 21901

410-287-5554

This camp offers sailing, water-skiing, a rope course, zip line, horseback riding, sports, art, crafts, and more on 211 acres on the Chesapeake Bay. One- and two-week sessions are available for boys and girls in grades 2-10. June 21-Aug. 21. One-week session/$975, two weeks/$2,250.

Summer Camp at the Zoo

The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore

1876 Mansion House Dr.

Baltimore, MD 21217

410-396-7102

Campers experience a unique, week-long day camp that allows them to explore the natural world of animals and their habitats. Each camp is conducted by zoo educators with each session limited to 20 campers. Students will learn how some of the animals are cared for, what they eat, and how their exhibits are maintained.

Different programs for kids in grades 2 through 8. Call for dates and rates. Zoo members receive discount.

Ultimate Watersports Summer Camps

Various state-park locations

Offices at: 7340 Greenbank Rd.

Baltimore, MD 21220

410-335-2340

Ultimate Watersports offers weekly sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, and environmental summer day camps for boys and girls ages 9-16. Offerings include watersports, rock climbing, and river kayaking. Call for more information and pricing.

YMCA Camp Letts

4003 Camp Letts Rd.

Edgewater, MD 21037

410-919-1410

The coed camp takes children ages 6-16 in day and residential programs. Its location on the Bay encourages campers to learn sailing, water-skiing, swimming, horseback riding, sports, paintball, and archery. June-Aug. Sessions range from one to three weeks. Prices vary.

Camp Tall Timbers

Winter office: 3735 Spicebush Dr.

Frederick, MD 21704

800-862-2678

Summer: Route 1, Box 472

High View, WV 26808

304-856-3722

Contact: Glenn Smith

Founded in 1970, Camp Tall Timbers in West Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains has offered co-ed campers in grades 1-10 aerobics, drama, athletics, horseback riding. Accredited by the American Camp Association. Prices vary.

Sports Camps

All Pro Lacrosse Camp

334 St Dunstans Rd

Baltimore, MD 21212

410 532 0189

Contact: Tom Marechek
tom@allprolaxcamps.com

Tom Marechek’s All Pro Lacrosse Camp is directed by Hall of Famer Tom Marechek, a former Syracuse University All American and now head coach at Friends School, and his All Pro Lacrosse staff. The camp, held at Goucher College for boys 7-17years of age, includes overnight, extended and day sessions, scrimmages, instructional sessions, individual and team competitions, and guest lecturers. Call for dates and prices.

Blue Chip Lacrosse Camp

Garrison Forest School

300 Garrison Forest Rd.

Owings Mills, MD 21117.

Mailing: 3200 Woodvalley Dr.

Baltimore, MD 21208

410-274-4129

The middle school Blue Chip Lacrosse Camp is the only lacrosse camp in the Baltimore area that specializes in teaching the game to the elite players of the game. Girls must have club experience in order to attend. The coaching staff includes some of Baltimore’s finest coaches such as Chris Robinson (McDonogh), Mary Gagnon (Mt. DeSales), and Lindsay Lewis (Garrison Forest). June 22-25. For elite players only. Limited to 200 campers.

Amazing Grace Equestrian Center

Summer Horseback Riding Program (Day Camp)

Amazing Grace Equestrian Center

2642 Mount Carmel Rd.

Parkton, MD 21120

443-528-7521

Amazing Grace Equestrian Center offers a Summer Riding Program (Day Camp) for ages 8 – 15. Participants will learn about the history of the horse, breeds, colors, markings, horse care, grooming, and riding (equitation, games and etiquette). Both English and Western disciplines are offered, beginner thru advanced. Camp is 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and before/after care is available. Call for dates and rates.

Black Bear Lacrosse Camps

P.O. Box 2348

Wilmington, DE 19899

Camp locations in various states

215-421-9170

This day lacrosse camp strives to provide instruction within a supportive and nurturing environment for boys and girls ages 4-15. Each camper receives a reversible tank top, as well as eligibility for scholarships. Counselor positions are filled by some of the best college, club, and professional players in the game who aim to inspire lacrosse players at all skill levels. Sessions June-Aug., check site for prices.

Brick Bodies Summer Camps

Brick Bodies Padonia

2430 Broad Ave.

Timonium, MD 21093

410-252-5280

Located at the Brick Bodies Padonia 58,000-square-foot health club facility, Brick Bodies Summer Camps offer basketball camps focusing on fundamentals of the game, shooting, team play, contests, and competition for kids 6-12. $100-$175. Five-day sessions August 3-14. Discounts available for Brick Bodies/Lynne Brick’s members.

Downtown Sailing Center

1425 Key Hwy., Ste. 110

Baltimore, MD 21230

410-727-0722

Junior summer camp runs weekly from June through mid- Aug. for children ages 8-15, offering kids expert instruction on sailing and boating skills. Call for dates and rates.

Five-Star Baltimore Basketball Camp

P.O. BOX 155

Timonium, MD 21094

410-426-2230

Five-Star, a day camp in its 19
^th season, serves girls and boys from third grade up to tenth grade with one-week sessions held at Park and Roland Park Schools, June-Aug. Call for exact dates and rates.

G.G. Smith Basketball Camp

Loyola University Maryland Athletics

Attn: Basketball Office

4501 N. Charles St.

Baltimore, MD 21210

410-617-2767

Run by Loyola University Maryland Head Coach G.G. Smith, this camp is for boys and girls, ages 7-17, in the Greyhounds’ Reitz Arena. Campers will learn from Smith and the Loyola coaching staff in a day filled with fun, skill enhancement, and fundamentals. More information can be found at
loyolagreyhounds.com.

Impact Sports Baltimore

Summer Baseball and Softball Camps and Clinic

Baltimore and Towson

443-406-6665

Baseball and softball camps for ages 8-16, Impact’s Math+Baseball and Leadership+Baseball camps combine fun games and baseball training with a greater purpose. Summer Development Leagues provide a personalized summer baseball experience close to home. Speed and conditioning clinics catapult young athletes to the next level. Call for dates and prices.

Sports Camp

Notre Dame of Maryland University

215-487-1106

This interactive camp, now in its 12th year, gives campers aged 10 to 18 a taste of the broadcast world, guiding them as they create their own anchor tapes in the camp’s TV studio, host a radio talk show and practice play-by-plays of past Super Bowls and NBA finals. Offered one week at Notre Dame, the camp also has openings in eight other cities as well. June 22-26; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $595 day camp; $1,225 overnight.

Tennis & Aquatics Camps at the JCC

3506 Gwynnbrook Ave.

Owings Mills, MD 21117

410-559-3538

JCC Tennis Camps provides a daily blend of skill-building, competition, and recreational activities. Programs are available for ages 3-15 on a weekly basis. The JCC also offers aquatics camps for beginner, intermediate, and experienced swimmers who are looking to develop a competitive edge. Call for dates and rates.

Ripken Baseball Camps

1427 Clarkview Rd., Ste. 100

Baltimore, MD 21209

888-747-5361

Day and overnight camp sessions are available for boys and girls ages 7-18. This is your young player’s chance to learn baseball “The Ripken Way.” June-August. $350-1,695. Camps will be held at the Ripken Experience in Aberdeen.

Camp consultants

Tips on Trips and Camps

Contact: Eve Eifler

www.tipsontripsandcamps.com
866-222-TIPS

Source

Seven Outdoor Spots to Reclaim Your Mental Health

Sarah Bregel — Thu, 16 May 2019 16:38:00 +0000

When life’s stresses are weighing you down, you’ll probably feel like hitting up the bar where everybody knows your name. What might actually serve your soul in a genuine way is to go where no one does. Because when your brain is as buzzy as the city streets, you need a real reprieve.

Getting out in nature, whether it’s for a picnic or a walk in the woods, can help you reclaim your calm, find your center, or whatever zen mind trick you’re trying to pull. Luckily, you don’t have to go far to find a spot to embrace the outdoors, unplug, and recharge. Here are seven peaceful spots in Baltimore to unwind.

The Red Trail at Lake Roland: The park and nature center at Lake Roland are big hits, especially in the springtime. But off the beaten path, you’ll find tons of trails to wander. The red trail, which juts off the main part of the park (between the playground and the dog park) follows Falls Road north for two miles. On it, you’ll find streams, bridges, and art installations. Higher traffic times are in the morning and late afternoon, but around midday, only a few folks can be found snapping twigs under their heels. Whether you’re looking to have a walking meditation or a workout, this shady trail can’t be beat. 1000 Lakeside Drive

Sherwood Gardens: If you’d rather relax and snack than move and sweat, bring the blanket and the charcuterie over to Sherwood Gardens in Guilford. The six-acre park houses over 80,000 tulips which makes it the perfect place to breathe deep and let go of your troubles. The evening brings tons families to the park to play, so if you’re aiming to get your “om” on without having to worry about getting clocked in the jaw with a frisbee, an early afternoon picnic and siesta is your best bet. Yawn . . . it really does sound ideal. 4310 Underwood Rd.

Soldiers Delight: Over in Owings Mills, you’ll find another trail to cure what ails. What’s unique about the land here is that it’s a serpentine barren, meaning the rock that underlines the area is made mostly of serpentine, making it a sandy, stony, sparsely vegetated space with some rare flowers, insects, and plant species. There are about seven miles of marked trails and, because of the sensitive nature of the environment there, cyclists aren’t permitted on the trails. Wanderers, however, are more than welcome. 5100 Deer Park Rd.

Quarry Lake: If you’re in need of a nearby loop where you can walk off your lunch and still make it back to work on time, Quarry Lake is a solid midday stop. The manmade lake is one of the deepest in Maryland and makes for a beautiful reprieve for its community members and neighbors. At the quarry, you can sit and eat a bagel, have a peaceful walk, or people watch. 2700 Quarry Lake Drive

Loch Raven Reservoir: If the woods are calling, there’s no better place to find your way (or lose it) than Loch Raven Reservoir. There are lots of shady trails to hike through, though some are a bit tricky with steep inclines and bumpy terrain. Take a break for a snack or some quiet time on the rocks overlooking the water. And before you leave, make sure to feed the ducks some corn, lettuce, or duck pellets (no bread, though)! A word a to the wise: Watch out for the geese because those are huge, loud, and, uh, kind of scary. Morgan Mill Rd and Loch Raven Drive

Baltimore Waterfront Promenade: For those looking for the perfect waterfront walk, the 4.3-mile trail running from Canton Waterfront Park to Fells Point is just the one. It’s easy walking, and the water views make the time fly by. Of course, you’re bound to see some passersby here, because you’re not exactly lost in the woods. But taking a stroll while looking out over the water still makes a great getaway (if only in your head). The promenade is dog-friendly, too. Just make sure to pick after your pup and keep them on a leash. 3001 Boston St.

Patapsco Valley State Park: Whatever you’re in the mood to accomplish (or not accomplish), you can probably achieve it here. This Howard County park runs for miles along the Patapsco River and has eight developed recreation areas. Tame your mind with a hike or a bike ride along one of the many trails, or hop in a canoe and let your troubles drift away. The Cascade Falls Trail in the Orange Grove area of the park is popular spot for its waterfalls and swinging bridges. And if you’re just looking to post up in a pavilion for the day and watch the world go by, you can totally do that, too. At least until your boss calls. Or the school wonders why you haven’t picked your kids up, yet. Okay, get zen, but maybe check the time every now and then. 5120 South St.

Source

The Great Outdoors

Mike Smith — Mon, 08 May 2017 11:00:00 +0000

By Ron Cassie
Illustrations by Eleanor Grosch

Travel & Outdoors

The Great Outdoors

52 places to hike, bike, & paddle without leaving town!

By Ron Cassie. Illustrations by Eleanor Grosch

Trees are among the oldest living things in the world. They are more like us, it turns out, than we imagine. They suckle their young. They make good friends, moving their thickest, sun-blocking branches out of the way of their neighbors’ sunlight. Trees count the passing time and days, and collaborate by sending electrical signals across a fungal filament network that is sometimes referred to as the Wood Wide Web. While it’s not known why, they keep the stumps of fallen companions alive for hundreds of years by feeding them through grafted roots.

Trees, to put it plainly, are social beings. “Sometimes, pairs . . . are so interconnected at the roots that when one tree dies, the other dies, too,” Peter Wohlleben, a German forest ranger and author of The Hidden Life of Trees, told The New York Times. Some trees, of course, are also revered by human beings. In Maryland, the famous Wye Oak, which sprouted in the 1500s in the village of Wye Mills in Talbot County, was named the largest white oak in the country by American Forests magazine in 1940. Years earlier, in 1909, Maryland’s first state forester, Fred Besley, along with a descendant of one of the early Wye Oak property owners, had photographed and measured the great tree, which continued to attract visitors until its death nearly a century later. (It finally succumbed after a storm on June 6, 2002, by which time it had soared to nearly 100 feet in height, with a canopy that spread 119 feet. The main trunk of the mammoth beauty weighed more than 61,000 pounds.) Recognizing the importance of preserving other specimens, Besley started the Maryland Big Tree program in 1925—the first such effort of its kind in the U.S.—to highlight and preserve the state’s largest and oldest trees.

Associated with the state Department of Natural Resources today, the volunteer-led initiative documents more than 1,600 trees in its registry, including state and county champions culled from Maryland’s 250 native species. The formula used to measure trees includes their circumference, height, and average crown spread. “People send in applications for their trees to be listed nearly every day,” says program coordinator John Bennett, adding that beloved trees have come to feel like a part of the family through the years. “When we go to measure a tree, a lot of times the photo album comes out, too. There will be pictures when the kids were young next to the tree. Then, maybe a swing or picnic table underneath it a few years later. Wedding pictures. Photos of the dog and grandparents—all with the tree as part of the picture.” Baltimore City has almost 40 trees on the registry. They include publicly accessible trees at Druid Hill Park (check the English Oak state champ on the park’s west side), Cylburn Arboretum, and Leakin Park. Baltimore County has nearly 200 registered trees, including a former national champion 112-foot American Elm in Lutherville. (The Maryland Big Tree program website includes photos and directions to assist visitors.) One of Bennett’s favorite trees is the current state champion White Oak, which stands 96 feet tall on the property of the Calvert Brick Meeting House in Cecil County, not far from where he grew up. It’s said to be more than 400 years old. According to legend, William Penn climbed the tree in 1682 to survey property he claimed for Pennsylvania. The dispute over the land with a certain Lord Baltimore was later settled by a couple of guys named Mason and Dixon. “That’s the story, according to an old Cecil Whig reporter, who wrote about the tree years ago,” says Bennett. “He’d heard that story from his grandfather, I think. Naturally, that tree would’ve been a lot smaller back then,” he adds, with a chuckle. “I’m pretty sure there would’ve been some other trees around at that time that would’ve better suited Mr. Penn’s purposes.”

In the end, whether the William Penn story is a tall tale or not probably isn’t that important. Maybe what matters is that the yarn continues to be passed down from generation to generation. The bond that people form with their favorite trees is often not just familial, but spiritual.

“Sitting in the shade of a big tree, listening to its leaves rustle, it’s like sitting alongside a river running,” Bennett says. “It connects to something primordial in us. It quietly reminds us that we are part of something larger than ourselves in this world.”

Barrans-Baldwin Trail

Parkville

The 460-acre Cromwell Valley Park focuses on local history, farming, and natural history. White-tailed deer and red foxes are abundant here, as well as tons of songbirds, including the Baltimore oriole, eastern bluebird, bobolink, and indigo bunting. Great blue herons and belted kingfishers can also be spotted from time to time around Minebank Run. There are more than a dozen very short, easy hikes and walks in this stream valley, the longest of which is the Barrans-Baldwin Trail.

Length: 1.67 miles (one way)
Difficulty: Easy
Access Point: 2002 Cromwell Bridge Road, Parkville

Grab a Bite: Named for the area’s old Ma & Pa Railroad, McFaul’s Ironhorse Tavern is a great place for brunch or a crab cake and beer after a long hike. There’s an outdoor deck, too.

Big Gunpowder Trail

Glen Arm

Established more than a half-century ago to preserve the Gunpowder River and Big and Little Gunpowder Falls, Gunpowder Falls State Park covers 18,000 acres, from wetlands to rugged slopes. Check in at the park’s headquarters to get a handle on everything here, including the 120 miles of multi-use trails. The heavily forested Big Gunpowder Trail is mostly flat, straddling the river and highlighted by tons of spring wildflowers.

Length: 8.8 miles (one way)
Difficulty: Moderate
Access Point: Take I-695 to Harford Road (Route 147) and head north for 3 miles. There’s parking on the right, just before the river.

Grab a Bite: The family-run Prigel Family Creamery offers handmade ice cream and yogurt, coffee, and other desserts. Leashed dogs are allowed and picnicking is encouraged.

Druid Hill Park is for hiking or biking; a great blue heron takes flight. —Jon Bilous; Kevin Grall

Black Marsh Trail

Edgemere

Situated inside North Point State Park, this well-maintained trail provides open looks at the local wildlife—muskrats, beavers, foxes, and otters—that makes its home beside the marshes here. North Point is also known as a haven for bird watching, so bring binoculars and keep an eye out for blue herons, bald eagles, hawks, and ospreys.

Length: 2-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Access Point: The trails at North Point State Park, off exit 42 of the Baltimore Beltway, are all clearly marked and easily found. Pick up a map at the visitor center.

Grab a Bite: Beanie’s Ice Cream & Candy Parlor, with its friendly service and black-and-white tiled floor, has the feel of a 1950s-style corner store. Nothing fancy, just 32 flavors of ice cream.

Buzzards Rock Trail

Catonsville

Part of the network of trails in the Hilton section of Patapsco Valley State Park, the short-but-steep Buzzards Rock Trail runs along the top of a ridge and offers scenic views of the railroad tracks down below. Link up to the Grist Mill Trail (2.3 miles) or Saw Mill Branch Trail (.9 miles)—or both—to stretch out the hike.

Length: 2.1-mile loop
Difficulty: Challenging
Access Point: Parking is at the Hilton area of Patapsco Valley State Park—1101 Hilton Ave., Catonsville.

Grab a Bite: Hit up Atwater’s bakery for its great bread, breakfast, and coffee. Open all day Saturday and Sunday for brunch, too.

{ Tap to expand. }

Cascade Falls Trail

Catonsville

Located in the Orange Grove section of Patapsco Valley State Park—Central Maryland’s outdoor jewel, which extends some 32 miles along the Patapsco River—the trail features close-ups of the best waterfall in the park. There are also a number of places to wade in the water here, so don’t forget to bring flip-flops and a swimsuit on summer days. The Cascade Trail also links easily to the Ridge Trail for a longer hike. Leashed dogs are allowed.

Length: 2.2-mile loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Access Point: Trailhead and parking are inside the park at Patapsco Valley State Park, 5120 South Street.

Grab a Bite: Check the local and family-friendly Peace A Pizza in Catonsville’s historic downtown. Vegetarian and gluten-free options available.

Cascade Falls at Patapsco Valley State Park. —Mukesh Patel

Choate Mine Trail

Owings Mills

The Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area is one of the best-kept secrets in the Baltimore metro region. Composed of 1,900 acres of unique, natural landscape—and home to nearly 40 rare, threatened, or endangered plant species as well as unusual rocks, minerals, and insects—there are 7 miles of marked hiking trails here. The largely flat Choate Mine Trail provides both a scenic overlook of Baltimore County—you’ll forget you’re in the suburbs—and a look at the entrance of the old mine from which the trail takes its name. Leashed dogs only.

Length: 1.1 mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Access Point: 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills.

Grab a Bite: For a healthy, authentic Mediterranean lunch, try one of Hummus Corner’s marinated kabobs or toasted pita wraps.

Ivy Hill Trail

Cockeysville

The yellow-blazed Ivy Hill Trail connects with the similarly yellow-blazed S. James Campbell Trail, adding up to the longest hike on the 1,043-acre grounds of Oregon Ridge Park. The other significant hike here is the 1.9-mile Loggers Trail loop—which like the Ivy Hill Trail is a popular route for fitness-oriented trail runners—but there are several smaller offshoots as well. Overall, Oregon Ridge serves as a terrific place to introduce kids to nature. There are wildlife programs for adults, too.

Length: 2.3-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Access Point: Park entrance is at 13555 Beaver Dam Road, Cockeysville.

Grab a Bite: It’s hard to beat the barbecue, ribs, and pit beef—some of Baltimore’s best—at nearby Jake’s Grill.

Lefty Kreh Fishing Trail

Parkton

Several years ago, the state of Maryland named this 7.2-mile catch and release section of the Gunpowder River after legendary Maryland fly-fishing pioneer, instructor, author, journalist, and conservationist Lefty Kreh. The tree-shaded, winding trail, formerly known as the Gunpowder South Trail, traces the river’s edge, and the area has been recognized as one of the finest trout streams in the country. Not to be missed.

Length: 7.2 miles (one way)
Difficulty: Moderate
Access Point: Hereford area of Gunpowder State Park. 17910 York Road, Parkton.

Grab a Bite: What’s better after a long hike than good pizza and BYOB beer or wine? Check Woodfire Kitchen, which works with local farmers to bring fresh ingredients to the table.

{ Tap to expand. }

Merryman Trail

Towson

One of the more diverse and challenging trails in the area, the Merryman Trail network is also one of the most beautiful hiking destinations in the Baltimore metro region. This is a fairly strenuous three-hour walkabout around—and up and down—the banks of the 10-mile Loch Raven Reservoir. Bring your camera and check out one of Baltimore County's largest waterways.

Length: 9.8 miles total
Difficulty: Challenging
Access Point: Pull-off parking on Dulaney Valley Road, heading north, after crossing Old Bosley Road and the reservoir bridge.

Grab a Bite: Friendly Farm restaurant has been serving family-style dinners for more than 57 years. Don’t miss the hand-dipped vanilla ice cream and take a stroll on the 200-acre farm.

Panther Branch Trail

Hereford

Located in Gunpowder Falls State Park, the Panther Branch Trail is more hilly than some other hikes, but the spring wildflowers are worth the effort. With several small stream crossings, this trail can get a little muddy, but you also might spy some beavers working on downed trees.

Length: 4.4 miles (one way)
Difficulty: Moderate
Access Point: From I-83, take exit 27 onto Mount Carmel Road heading east before turning north on York Road. Parking and trailhead are on York Road, just before the bridge that crosses the Gunpowder Falls.

Grab a Bite: Try the Teacher’s Pet at Graul’s Market—made with Graul’s turkey breast, sliced Granny Smith apple, pine nuts, leaf lettuce, and Russian dressing on a Kaiser Roll.

Serpentine Loop

Owings Mills

This is an easily accessible, year-round trail that loops behind the Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area visitor center. It’s a steep walk-hike, there’s also a minor stream crossing or two, and the trail can become fairly muddy after it rains. Otherwise, this is a good trail for all ages and abilities. The Serpentine Loop, named after the rare type of grasslands and geology here, is also a popular destination for fitness-minded trail runners. Leashed dogs are allowed.

Length: 2.3-mile loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Access Point: 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills.

Grab a Bite: The family-owned Kavkaz Kebab won’t disappoint with its Middle Eastern cuisine.

Stony Run Trail

Remington

The Stony Run Trail is sometimes forgotten by Baltimoreans who don’t live nearby, but it is a one-of-a-kind city trail that connects a number of North Baltimore neighborhoods, including Hampden, Remington, Charles Village, Roland Park, and Tuscany-Canterbury. It’s mixed-use and multiple-surface—asphalt, crushed stone, dirt, gravel, grass, and wood chips—and follows an old Maryland and Pennsylvania rail line, which once ran between Baltimore and York. It’s a popular destination for both dog walkers and Johns Hopkins’ cross country runners.

Length: 2.3-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Access Point: Southern section: Sisson Street and Wyman Park Drive. Northern section: Overhill Road and Linwood Road.

Grab a Bite: With its coffee, breakfast, and variety of vegan lunch options, Charmington’s is the perfect pre- or post-hike stop for the healthy-minded.

Wetland Trail

West Baltimore

Situated in Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park—the largest contiguous urban wilderness area east of the Mississippi at 1,216 acres—the Wetland Trail will have you quickly forgetting you’re inside Baltimore City. Deer, raccoons, and possums are all prevalent in the adjacent parks, as are owls, hawks, robins, and goldfinches. Overall, there are 16 miles of marked trails here—pick up a map at the Carrie Murray Nature Center.

Length: 1.5 miles (one way)
Difficulty: Moderate
Access Point: Leakin Park at Winans Meadow, 4500 N. Franklintown Road.

Grab a Bite: For an easy picnic, get a prosciutto panini from Trinacria Foods, a Baltimore institution for more than 100 years.

Beaver
(Castor canadensis)
North America’s largest rodent has reddish-brown fur, large orange teeth, and a paddle-shaped tail for swimming. Look for them building dams at North Point, Gunpowder Falls, and Patapsco Valley state parks.

Bald Eagle
(Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
In danger of extinction four decades ago, our soaring national symbol has made a dramatic return and can be readily found today at North Point State Park and Conowingo Dam.

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly
(Papilio glaucus)
The yellow and black tiger swallowtail flies from spring to fall, feeding on the nectar of numerous local flowers while producing two to three broods. Check for the female’s blue band of spots on its hind wings.

Eastern cottontail
(Sylvilagus floridanus)
Brown, short-eared, and named for its white-tufted tail (obviously), the cottontail is usually spotted near the edge of forests, farms, and orchards while nibbling on leaves, flowers, and herbs.

Ashland to Monkton

Cockeysville

The main line of the Northern Central Railway (NCR), built in 1832, once extended from the industrial docks of Canton to the shores of Lake Ontario in upstate New York. Today, the former NCR line, now known as the Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail, is one of the oldest—and best—rails-to-trails experiences in the country. A busy weekend and weeknight destination, this compacted dirt and stone-dust path is a true multi-purpose trail, serving walkers, joggers, and bicyclists alike. Check for hours, but don’t forget to stop by the restored 1898 Monkton Train Station, which serves as a local museum, gift shop, and turning around point. (Plus restrooms, too.)

Length: 7.2 miles (one way), stone-dust
Bkie: Hybrid or mountain
Access Point: York Road (Route 45) to Cockeysville (exit 18 off I-83), turning right (east) on Ashland Road. Bear left onto Paper Mill Road and look for the parking lot on the left.

Grab a Bite: Check the Pennsylvania Dutch Market in the Ashland Marketplace Shopping Center and try the pancakes or waffles at Linny’s Kitchen before you roll out.

Bikers can soon enjoy a planned 35-mile car-free loop that circles Charm City. —Rails to Trails Conservancy

Baltimore and Annapolis Trail

Glen Burnie

One of the best things about the Baltimore and Annapolis Trail is that it’s accessible by the Maryland Transit Administration’s bike-friendly light rail. Check the schedules, but the light rail trains stop at the Mount Royal station roughly on the half-hour, with a final stop at Glen Burnie’s Cromwell station that is just a short hop to the entrance to the B&A. This 8-foot-wide paved path is more of a suburban ride—albeit with lots of nature, including the Cattail Creek Natural Area, as it winds down to the state capital.

Length: 13.3 miles (one way), asphalt
Bike: Hybrid or road
Access Point: If you drive: Thomas A. Dixon Observation Area, 1 mile west of I-97, at 1911 Dorsey Road, Glen Burnie.

Grab a Bite: Give Pip’s Dock Street Dogs house specialty—an all beef hot dog with mustard and Pip’s homemade relish, made with mango and jalapeños—a shot. Outside seating, too.

{ Tap to expand. }

BWI Trail

Linthicum

Similar to the Baltimore and Annapolis Trail, the BWI Trail is accessible by the Maryland Transit Administration’s bike-friendly light rail. The closest stop here is the Linthicum station. But it is also reachable from Glen Burnie’s Cromwell station—essentially where these two trails connect—which is great for the serious cyclist who can ride to Annapolis and back on the B&A and then add another 11 miles with a loop around the similarly paved BWI Trail. Despite circling the airport, there are remarkably serene stretches here.

Length: 11-mile loop, asphalt
Bike: Hybrid or road
Access Point: If you drive: Thomas A. Dixon Observation Area, 1 mile west of I-97, at 1911 Dorsey Road, Glen Burnie.

Grab a Bite: Carb load with a sautéed spinach omelet (baby spinach, tomatoes, bacon, mushrooms, and Gorgonzola cheese) at The Grill at Quarterfield Station.

Druid Hill Park Loop

Baltimore

Whether for recreation or a serious workout, bicycling Baltimoreans shouldn’t forget about the paved trails at massive Druid Hill Park. Unfortunately, most of the 1.5-mile loop around the reservoir there will be closed for a while because of construction work. However, there are innumerable trail options throughout the 745-acre Baltimore jewel. Starting near The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, sticking to the outermost paths, and then circling back is an easy way to get in a solid 6-mile-plus jaunt.

Length: 6-mile loop, paved
Bike: Hybrid, road, or mountain
Access Point: 1 Safari Place.

Grab a Bite: If you haven’t been to the Dovecote Café in nearby Reservoir Hill, this ride is a good excuse to stop by. Start your morning here with banana bread or a corn muffin and coffee.

Glen Ellen Trail

Timonium

Mountain bikers worked to get permission to bike around Loch Raven Reservoir and the payoff is a wonderful venue—the terrain isn’t as challenging as some at Patapsco Valley State Park, but it’s still a fun ride for all abilities. Both world champion mountain biker Marla Streb and U.S. Olympian Georgia Gould have gotten in workouts here. This is a super scenic trail, too, running close to the banks of the reservoir. Check lochraventrails.com for a map.

Length: 9 miles (one way), dirt
Bike: Mountain
Access Point: Take Dulaney Valley Road north of I-695 and turn onto East Seminary Avenue. Look for parking and the trailhead immediately on the left.

Grab a Bite: It’s hard to top Cunningham’s Café & Bakery for house-baked bread, locally sourced eggs, top-notch sandwiches, and small-batch coffee.

Grist Mill Trail

Relay

Bicycling, walking, and inline skating are all popular activities on this paved, heavily wooded introduction to the Glen Artney Area of Patapsco Valley State Park. The gentle Grist Mill Trail (the mill burned down long ago) strides on the bank of the Patapsco River and is wheelchair accessible. Leashed dogs are allowed, too. It also passes by the Swinging Bridge and Bloede’s Dam. There are plenty of other nearby trail options to explore by foot or bike.

Length: 2.5 miles (one way), asphalt
Bike: Hybrid or mountain
Access Point: 410-539-8395.

Grab a Bite: Head to Sorrento of Arbutus for their pizza, made with homemade dough and signature house tomato sauce.

Gwynns Falls Trail

Baltimore

A major section of the not-to-be-missed annual Tour dem Parks, Hon! event, plus part of the Baltimore National Heritage Area, this ride is a must for Baltimore bicyclists as well as newbies and visitors, who get a unique look at Charm City’s diverse terrain. This surprisingly scenic urban trek follows the Gwynns Falls stream and the Middle Branch and Inner Harbor of the Patapsco River, and winds through Leakin, Leon Day, and Carroll parks, offering 10 miles of natural path in total.

Length: 15 miles (one way), paved
Bike: Hybrid, mountain, or road
Access Point: With nine trailheads, there are plenty of convenient starting options. Check gwynnsfallstrail.org.

Grab a Bite: One of the easiest trailheads is in South Baltimore, not far from the Cross Street Market. Tons of possibilities there, obviously, but it’s hard to beat a post-ride, overstuffed sandwich at Big Jim’s Deli.

Both Loch Raven Reservoir and Patapsco Valley State Park offer great local mountain biking; riding south on the BWI Trail. —Kevin Grall; PJ Duhig

Herring Run Trail

Baltimore

A great, Northeast Baltimore trail for walking, inline skating, and bicycling through Herring Run Park’s 375 acres of urban woodland that is home to ducks, foxes, great blue herons, and white egrets. Amenities at the park include the historic Halls Spring, the Herring Run stream, three playgrounds, soccer and baseball fields, a half-basketball court, and restrooms, plus picnic areas and birding and fishing opportunities.

Length: 2.5-mile loop, asphalt
Bike: Hybrid, road, or mountain
Access Point: Harford Road and Chesterfield Avenue.

Grab a Bite: Start your day with a breakfast burrito and cup of Zeke’s Coffee at the kid-friendly Red Canoe Café in Lauraville.

Jones Falls Trail

Baltimore

The Jones Falls Trail doesn’t have any super steep climbs, but it can be steep at times as it zigzags north from the Inner Harbor to Cylburn Arboretum. An easy place to start (and a landmark) is the Shot Tower on Fayette Street near the harbor, at which point the trail heads north on a protected cycle track alongside the city prison before crossing over to the mill neighborhood close to Hampden. As the Jones Falls Trail continuous north, cutting through Druid Hill Park, the ride takes in more nature as it reaches the grounds of the arboretum. Check jonesfallstrail.us for an online map.

Length: 11 miles (one way), asphalt
Bike: Hybrid, mountain, or road
Access Point: Shot Tower, 801 E. Fayette St. Or the Cylburn Arboretum, 4915 Greenspring Ave.

Grab a Bite: Nothing says bicycling more than great coffee and French pastry. Get to Pâtisserie Poupon early because the best breads go quickly.

{ Tap to expand. }

Lake Montebello

Baltimore

Local long-distance runners know this venue as the reward after climbing the toughest stretch of the Baltimore marathon. The Lake Montebello loop is a popular weeknight and weekend spot for walkers, joggers, and bicyclists, and it can easily be combined with the Herring Run Trail for a longer pedal—the park sits adjacent on the lake’s north side. The Baltimore Department of Recreation and Parks has rented bicycles here in the past as part of its Laps Around the Lake program.

Length: 1.3-mile loop, asphalt
Bike: Hybrid, road, or mountain
Access Point: 33rd Street and Hillen Road.

Grab a Bite: The crab cakes at nearby Koco’s Pub are legendary and worth putting in a dozen laps around the lake.

Rockburn Skills Park

Elkridge

Created jointly by the Mid-Atlantic Off-Road Enthusiasts, the International Mountain Biking Association, and Howard County Recreation and Parks, the 450-acre park has been built with mountain bikers in mind. Free to the public, the park here consists of multiple trails of varying complexity, including a pump track and three downhill tracks—one each for beginners, intermediate, and advanced mountain bikers. Helmets are required. All ages are welcome.

Length: Not applicable
Bike: Mountain
Access Point: 5400 Landing Road, Elkridge.

Grab a Bite: R&R Taqueria is the local go-to for Mexican fare.

Short Line Trail

Catonsville

The old Short Line Railroad, a 3.5-mile line whose operations began in 1884, ran from St. Agnes Station to Catonsville, and today it is undergoing a rails-to-trails rebirth. Starting at the north end of the trail at Frederick Road in downtown Catonsville, the trail begins on several local roads and loops south by Spring Grove Hospital Center before heading back to Frederick Road and picking up the completed crushed stone section of the trail, which heads over Maiden Choice Lane.

Length: Not applicable
Bike: Hybrid, road, or mountain
Access Point: Visit catonsvillerailstotrails.com for an online map. Start next to Bill’s Music at 743 Frederick Road and head south on Mellor Avenue.

Grab a Bite: Try one of the varied burgers—like the kobe beef specialty—at Duesenberg’s American Café & Grill.

Canton Waterfront Park

Baltimore

A super convenient place to launch your kayak and go for an easy paddle while enjoying a unique perspective of the city. You might see some ospreys, and paddle far enough, you’ll see the U.S.S. Constellation, and lots of tourists at Harborplace. The water quality is improving—thanks Professor Trash Wheel—and the launch is across from Fort McHenry, which provides another great view. But it can get crowded: Keep an eye out for water taxis, paddle boats, and other crafts and vessels. This is also a great spot for a picnic or walk along the Baltimore Waterfront Promenade. Don’t miss the Second Annual Baltimore Flotilla on June 10, which launches from Canton Waterfront Park.

Access Point: 3001 Boston St.

Grab a Bite: After paddling, stay with a seafaring theme and stop by Mama’s On the Half Shell for their famous oysters.

Canton Waterfront Park; Lower Gunpowder River. —Jon Bilous; Vicki Dodson

Gunpowder Falls State Park

Middle River

Power boats are not allowed to launch from the shallow water in the Hammerman Area, which makes it ideal for canoes, kayaks, and rowboats. If you don’t have your own kayak, you’re in luck—Ultimate Watersports rents kayaks, wind surfboards, and stand-up paddleboards at the beach here. This is one of the most scenic paddling areas in the region and there’s a fair chance you’ll spot a bald eagle or two. Sitting on the banks of the Gunpowder River, the Hammerman Area also offers 1,500 feet of beach and open-water swimming. Lifeguards are on duty at the swimming area Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

Access Point: 7200 Graces Quarters Road, Middle River.

Grab a Bite: Don’t leave the park: The Riverside Grille, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, offers food, drinks, and other concessions. Think French fries and snow cones.

{ Tap to expand. }

Lake Roland

Baltimore

Owned by Baltimore City, but leased to Baltimore County, the 500-acre-plus park has more to offer than ever with the new Lake Roland Nature Center, which opened this past fall. Along with all the other amenities at the park—hiking, biking, birding, and pavilions—canoeing and kayaking are allowed on the lake. Be sure to check lakeroland.org for ranger-led paddles (and other nature programming) to learn about the local wildlife and Baltimore’s first public reservoir.

Access Point: 1000 Lakeside Dr.

Grab a Bite: The Haute Dog Carte’s famous franks, including their signature Black Angus dog with homemade bacon and onion marmalade, are a summer must. Check out the lightly smoked and grilled beef and pork sausages, too.

Kayaking on the Chesapeake Bay. —Vicki Dodson

Middle Branch Park

Baltimore

The 150-acre Middle Branch Park derives it name from its water body’s position as the “middle branch” of the Patapsco River. Middle Branch Park is conveniently accessible by bike via the nearby Gwynns Falls Trail and Middle Branch Trail, which intersect not far from the park. If you’re new to paddling, or simply don’t own a kayak, participating in the Baltimore City Recreation and Parks canoe and kayak programs—which offer affordable rentals—is an easy way to get started. Check bcrp.baltimorecity.gov for more information on those efforts. The park serves as home to the Baltimore Rowing Club—if you’ve ever been interested in sculling, here’s your chance—and paddling here provides a unique view of the city’s skyline from Baltimore’s “other waterfront.”

Access Point: 3301 Waterview Ave.

Grab a Bite: The biscuits at Spoons Cafe were named the best in Maryland. Need we say more?

{ Tap to expand. }

Prettyboy Reservoir

Parkton

Permits are required to access the Prettyboy, Liberty, and Loch Raven reservoirs, but are well worth the cost for dedicated paddlers. The rocks and gnarled pines along the banks of Prettyboy give the impression of being in the Great North Woods of upstate New York and New England. It would take days to paddle the nearly 7,380-acre reservoir, but canoeists and kayakers report spotting mink, beavers, eagles, and, of course, deer. And there is a nice, easy launch from Spooks Hill Road after a quick trip up I-83. Visit the Baltimore City Department of Pubic Works website for permit information.

Access Point: Spooks Hill Road, Parkton.

Grab a Bite: Aptly named, The Filling Station coffee shop’s breakfast burritos and selection of coffee, espresso, chai, frappés, and shakes are worth a short detour off I-83.

Kayaking and paddle boarding,both available to rent locally, offer some of the best water views. —Vicki Dodson

Rocky Point Park

Essex

The smart canoeists and kayakers sneak away to Rocky Point during a weekday before the 375-acre park and waterfront gets crowded with motorboats during the summer. Situated at the mouth of the Back River, Rocky Point offers excellent boat launches and important amenities like bathrooms and ample parking. There is a fee here, but it allows for access to Hart-Miller Island State Park—approximately a mile away—which is well worth the trip, and a boat is the only way to get there. Once ashore, the 1,000-acre Hart-Miller Island offers camping, hiking trails, great beach access, rental bicycles, and excellent birding, too. The expansive views of the Chesapeake Bay and the Craighill Channel Lower Range Rear Lighthouse are not to be missed. Other eastern Baltimore County boat launches include the Marshy Point Nature Center, Cox’s Point Park in Essex, Wilson Point Park in Middle River, Inverness Park, Merritt Point Park, and Turner Station Park in Dundalk. Check baltimorecountymd.gov for more information on these locations, all of which are open all year. For more adventurous paddlers, North Point State Park serves as a potential launching point to Hart-Miller Island and Fort Howard. (The Hard Yacht Café on Bear Creek in Dundalk also has a boat launch available for members of the Canton Kayak Club.)

Access Point: 2200 Rocky Point Road, Essex.

Grab a Bite: What could possibly be more Chesapeake Bay than rental kayaks and a crab cake dinner for two at the Island View Waterfront Cafe?

Southwest Area Park

Baltimore

The Southwest Area Park is the only Baltimore County public boat ramp on the Patapsco River. It feeds into a shallow section of the river, perfect for kayak or canoe. The scenery here is a bit unusual. It’s a mixture of urban streetscapes plus tall stands of invasive phragmites—large perennial grasses typically found in wetlands throughout the world’s temperate and tropical regions. Plus, it’s fun to paddle under I-895. The 230-acre park also offers picnic and pavilion areas, nature trails, horseshoe pits, restrooms, and playgrounds.

Access Point: 3939 Klunk Dr., Brooklyn.

Grab a Bite: Work up a big appetite and try the smoked baby back ribs at Bon Fire Outdoor Charcoal Grill.

Source

Editor’s Corner: May 2017

Aaron Hope — Fri, 28 Apr 2017 08:30:00 +0000

Source

outdoors – Baltimore Magazine

Spring is in Full Swing in Baltimore County

The Great Cicada Invasion Returns to Maryland

An Updated Guide to Getting Outside During COVID-19

PARKS

CAMPING

BEACHES

BOATING

GOLF

Camp Guide 2015

It’s not quite time to bust out the bathing suits, but if you’re a parent, there’s one bit of summer prep you do need to tackle: finding the perfect summer camp for your kids.

Camp Options

Arts, Academia, & Skills Camps

Visual & Performing Arts Camps

Nature Camps

Religious Camps

Camp Airy

Camp Louise

Medical/Special Needs Camps

Traditional Summer Camps

Sports Camps

Camp consultants

Seven Outdoor Spots to Reclaim Your Mental Health

The Great Outdoors

Travel & Outdoors

The Great Outdoors

52 places to hike, bike, & paddle without leaving town!

Barrans-Baldwin Trail

Big Gunpowder Trail

Druid Hill Park is for hiking or biking; a great blue heron takes flight. —Jon Bilous; Kevin Grall

Black Marsh Trail

Buzzards Rock Trail

Cascade Falls Trail

Cascade Falls at Patapsco Valley State Park. —Mukesh Patel

Choate Mine Trail

Ivy Hill Trail

Lefty Kreh Fishing Trail

Merryman Trail

Panther Branch Trail

Serpentine Loop

Stony Run Trail

Wetland Trail

Ashland to Monkton

Bikers can soon enjoy a planned 35-mile car-free loop that circles Charm City. —Rails to Trails Conservancy

Baltimore and Annapolis Trail

BWI Trail

Druid Hill Park Loop

Glen Ellen Trail

Grist Mill Trail

Gwynns Falls Trail

Both Loch Raven Reservoir and Patapsco Valley State Park offer great local mountain biking; riding south on the BWI Trail. —Kevin Grall; PJ Duhig

Herring Run Trail

Jones Falls Trail

Lake Montebello

Rockburn Skills Park

Short Line Trail

Canton Waterfront Park

Canton Waterfront Park; Lower Gunpowder River. —Jon Bilous; Vicki Dodson

Gunpowder Falls State Park

Lake Roland

Kayaking on the Chesapeake Bay. —Vicki Dodson

Middle Branch Park

Prettyboy Reservoir

Kayaking and paddle boarding,both available to rent locally, offer some of the best water views. —Vicki Dodson

It’s not quite time to bust out the bathing suits,
but if you’re a parent, there’s one bit of summer prep you do need to tackle: finding the
perfect summer camp for your kids.