Patapsco State Park
16,000 Acres of River Valley Wilderness Minutes from Baltimore
Patapsco Valley State Park is one of the oldest and most heavily visited state parks in the United States — and for good reason. Stretching across 16,043 acres along 32 miles of the Patapsco River, this park offers an astonishing 200+ miles of trails, trout-stocked streams, cascading waterfalls, and historic ruins, all within a short drive of Baltimore and Washington, D.C. From the iconic swinging bridge at Orange Grove to the stunning Cascade Falls, Patapsco proves that world-class outdoor recreation doesn’t require a cross-country road trip.
Hiking: 200+ Miles of Trails Across Six Areas
The park is divided into several distinct recreational areas, each with its own character and trail networks. Over 70 miles are actively maintained, with an additional 130+ miles of informal paths and connectors.
Park Areas and Best Trails
| Area | Character | Top Trails | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avalon | Most popular, riverside | Cascade Falls Trail, Grist Mill Trail | Cascade Falls, historic mill ruins, Swinging Bridge access |
| Orange Grove | Scenic, historic | Swinging Bridge Trail | Iconic suspension bridge over river, scenic overlooks |
| Hilton | Family-oriented | Sawmill Branch Trail | Nature center, playgrounds, campground access |
| Hollofield | Wooded, quieter | Hollofield Loop | Ridge views, river access |
| McKeldin | Most remote | McKeldin Loop, River Road Trail | Riverside walks, rocks for scrambling |
| Daniels | Historic, rugged | Daniels Trail | Abandoned town ruins, dam area, fishing |
⚠️ Peak Weekend Warning: The Avalon, Hollofield, and Daniels Trailhead areas may close due to capacity on busy weekends. Arrive early (before 10 AM) or visit on weekdays for the best experience.
Fishing
The Patapsco River is stocked with rainbow and brown trout by the Maryland DNR, especially in the Avalon, Orange Grove, and Daniels sections. Smallmouth bass are also available year-round. A Maryland fishing license is required for anglers 16+.
Fishing Regulations
| Section | Species | Limit |
|---|---|---|
| General (Avalon, McKeldin) | Stocked trout, bass | 5 trout/day |
| Daniels Dam downstream | Trout, bass | 2 trout/day |
Important: If you catch a Northern Snakehead (invasive species), you are encouraged to remove and keep it. Do not release it back.
Camping
Patapsco offers camping at two areas — perfect for overnight stays close to Baltimore or D.C.
Campground Details
| Area | Location | Types | Notes (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hilton | Catonsville | Tent sites (non-electric), mini-cabins (electric) | Open — limited capacity |
| Hollofield | Ellicott City | Tent & RV sites, electric hookups | ⚠️ Closed for renovation through 2025; check for 2026 reopening |
2026 Update: Maryland Park Service is launching a new reservation system on February 24, 2026. Check the Maryland DNR website for booking availability.
Cascade Falls
One of the park’s most popular natural features, Cascade Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall accessible via an easy trail from the Avalon area. The falls are most impressive after spring rains or snowmelt. The trail passes historic stone ruins from 19th-century industry along the Patapsco River.
Visitor Information
Getting There
Patapsco Valley State Park spans multiple areas along the Patapsco River west of Baltimore. The main Avalon entrance is accessible from South Street, Elkridge, MD 21075. Multiple entrance points serve different areas of the park.
Hours and Fees
Park hours: 9 AM to sunset daily. Day-use fee: $3 per vehicle (Maryland residents) / $5 per vehicle (non-residents). Available at area-specific entrance stations.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May) for wildflowers, trout stocking, and waterfall flow. Fall for river valley foliage. Weekday mornings year-round to avoid capacity closures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the park close when it’s full?
Yes. On busy weekends, the Avalon, Hollofield, and Daniels areas may temporarily close when parking reaches capacity. Arrive before 10 AM on weekends, or visit on weekdays to avoid closures. McKeldin is usually the least crowded area.
Is the Hollofield campground open in 2026?
The Hollofield campground was closed for renovation through 2025 and was not accepting reservations. Check the Maryland DNR website for the latest 2026 status, as a new reservation system launches February 24, 2026. The Hilton area campground remains open year-round with limited capacity.
Where is the best fishing in the park?
The Daniels area offers the most productive fishing, with both above and below the Daniels Dam accessible. The Avalon and Orange Grove sections are also stocked with trout in spring. For bass, try the deeper pools in the Hollofield and McKeldin areas. An invasive species, the Northern Snakehead, should be caught and kept if encountered.
