Patapsco Valley State Park FAQ
Patapsco Valley State Park is a 16,043-acre Maryland state park along 32 miles of the Patapsco River near Ellicott City and Catonsville, run by Maryland DNR. It is open 9 a.m. to sunset, costs $2 per car on weekdays and $3 per person on weekends for Maryland residents from April to October, welcomes leashed dogs in most areas, and has camping at Hollofield and Hilton. The questions below link to the page with the full answer.
Planning
Start with Hours & Fees and Parking & Directions. Each area has its own entrance: Avalon for the Swinging Bridge and Cascade Falls, Hollofield for camping and the overlook, McKeldin for the rapids and disc golf, Hilton for cabins and the tire playground, and Daniels for quiet hikes and paddling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to go to Patapsco Valley State Park?
From April through October, Maryland residents pay $2 per car on weekdays and $3 per person on weekends and holidays; out-of-state visitors pay $4 per car or $5 per person. From November through March, an honor system charges $2 or $4 per car.
Do you have to pay for Patapsco Valley State Park?
Yes, in every area. Children in car seats, seniors with the Golden Age Pass, Universal Disability Pass holders and active-duty military with ID get in free.
What are Patapsco Valley State Park's hours?
9 a.m. to sunset, every day. Sunset times are posted at each entrance.
How do I get to the waterfall at Patapsco State Park?
Enter at the Avalon Area, 5120 South Street, Halethorpe, drive about 1.6 miles to the Orange Grove lot by the Swinging Bridge, and take the Cascade Trail to Cascade Falls.
Where is the Swinging Bridge?
At Orange Grove in the Avalon Area, right next to the Orange Grove parking lot, about 1.6 miles inside the South Street entrance.
Is it safe to swim in Patapsco?
Swimming is allowed at your own risk except where posted, but there are no lifeguards and DNR warns of strong currents. The McKeldin Rapids, the pool below them and the water within 300 feet of dams are closed.
Are dogs allowed at Patapsco Valley State Park?
Yes, on a leash, in Avalon, Orange Grove, Glen Artney, McKeldin, Daniels, Hollofield and Hilton's day-use area. Dogs are not allowed in the Pickall Area.
Can you camp at Patapsco?
Yes. Hollofield has 73 campsites, some with electric, and Hilton has 12 tent sites and six camper cabins. Reserve at parkreservations.maryland.gov or 1-888-432-2267.
Is Patapsco Maryland's oldest state park?
Yes. It began in 1907 as the Patapsco Forest Reserve.
How many miles of trails does Patapsco have?
More than 200 miles, with 70 miles maintained, according to Maryland DNR.
Which area of Patapsco is best?
It depends. Avalon and Orange Grove have the Swinging Bridge, Cascade Falls and the Grist Mill Trail; McKeldin has the rapids, disc golf and long trails; Hilton has the tire playground and cabins; Daniels is the quietest.
Does Patapsco fill up on weekends?
Yes. DNR closes Avalon, Hollofield and the Daniels Trailhead to new cars when they reach capacity. Arrive early and carpool.
Can you grill at Patapsco?
Only in designated picnic areas. Grills are not allowed at the Daniels Area.
Can you fish in Patapsco Valley State Park?
Yes, along most of the river with a Maryland license, except within 300 feet of a dam. McKeldin and Daniels are known for spring trout.
Can you go tubing at Patapsco?
Yes, in the Avalon area when the water is up in spring and fall or after summer storms. Bring your own gear.
What is the phone number for Patapsco Valley State Park?
Park headquarters is 410-461-5005. In an emergency, call 911. For 24-hour help or to report a violation, call the Natural Resources Police at 410-260-8888.