23 Fantastic National Parks in Maryland to visit with Kids
Maryland is home to many beautiful parks, perfect for a day trip or a more extended visit. From the expansive forests of Patapsco Valley State Park to the rocky beaches of Assateague Island National Seashore, there’s something for everyone in Maryland’s parks system. Here are some of the best Maryland National parks to visit with your kids.
National parks in Maryland to visit with kids
Antietam National Battlefield
If you’re looking for a history lesson your kids will never forget, take them to Antietam national battlefield. Watch out, though; this historical monument in Maryland is the site of one of the bloodiest battles during the Civil War. It’s also home to some pretty fantastic scenery, so make sure to bring your camera!
There are plenty of things to see and do at Antietam national battlefield. First, be sure to walk the 1.5-mile tour route, which takes you past the most important landmarks. You can also visit the visitor center, the museum, and the theater. Kids will love the interactive exhibits!
There are also several hiking trails and picnic areas, making it the perfect place to spend a day out in nature.
Your kids can also become junior rangers at Antietam National battlefield.
Assateague Island National Seashore
If you’re looking for a beach getaway perfect for the whole family, look no further than Assateague island national seashore. This beautiful park is located on a barrier island off the coast of Maryland, and it boasts stunning beaches, salt marshes, and wildlife habitats. Kids will love exploring the park’s many miles of trails, and there’s plenty of opportunity for fishing, swimming, and kayaking. So pack your sunscreen and head to Assateague for some unforgettable coastal fun!
Appalachian National Scenic Trail
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is a great place to take your kids for a hike. The trail goes through the forests and mountains of Maryland, and there are plenty of places to stop and explore. The scenery is beautiful, and there are many things to see and do along the way. Kids will love getting out in nature and exploring the trails. Be sure to pack a lunch because there are plenty of great spots to eat outdoors. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is an excellent place for a family outing. If you are passionate about nature, you could consider joining the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, which was created to protect, manage, and advocate for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.
Catoctin Mountain Park
For nature lovers, If you’re looking for a great place to take the kids for a day of outdoor fun, Catoctin mountain park is the perfect spot. With more than 8,000 acres of forests, walking trails, and wildlife to explore, Catoctin has something for everyone. Kids will love learning about the park’s history and natural wonders, and there are plenty of opportunities for fun and adventure, from hiking and biking to fishing and swimming. Your kids can also explore Catoctin Mountain Park with their Junior Ranger Book, which is a 24-page activity guide that highlights the unique natural, historical, and cultural resources of Catoctin Mountain Park and is geared for all ages!
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
If you’re looking for a great place to take the kids, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is a must-visit! This park is located in Maryland and offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and learning. There’s something for everyone at this park, from hiking and biking trails to history lessons and river cruises.
Kids will love exploring the trails and learning about the history of the c&o canal, while parents can enjoy a peaceful hike or a relaxing river cruise. Plus, kids can learn about becoming junior rangers and enjoy many recreational activities. There are also plenty of fishing and horseback riding opportunities, so be sure to bring your gear! This is also an amazing place to see Fall Foliage in Maryland.
Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historical Trail
If you’re looking for a fun and educational family outing, a visit to the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail is a great option. This trail winds its way through Maryland, taking in several important historical sites related to the life and work of Captain John Smith. There’s plenty to see and do along the trail, so kids of all ages will have a great time. Like other national parks, kids can explore becoming junior rangers and earn badges.
Civil War Defenses of Washington
Civil War defenses of Washington in Maryland are a great way to learn about America’s history. These forts and fortifications were built in the early 1800s as a defense against British invasion, and they offer a unique glimpse into how people lived during this period. In addition, most of these sites are open to the public, making them an excellent destination for a family day trip.
Clara Barton National Historic Site (Currently closed)
If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity with your kids, visit the Clara Barton National Historic Site in Maryland. This site is dedicated to the life and work of Clara Barton, who was a nurse and educator during the Civil War. Kids will enjoy learning about Barton’s accomplishments and exploring the museum exhibits. There is also a nature trail on the property that provides a great opportunity for a nature hike.
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity with your kids, consider visiting Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine in Baltimore, Maryland. This attraction is home to the Star-Spangled Banner, the flag that flew over Fort McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore in 1814.
You can explore the fort’s exhibits, which tell the story of the Battle of Baltimore and Francis Scott Key’s famous poem. Kids will also enjoy playing in the interactive exhibits, such as the touch screens that show how the flag was made.
Outside of the fort, there are also several other attractions worth visiting. The Baltimore Visitor Center, for example, is home to many interactive exhibits about the city’s history. And the USS Constellation Museum is dedicated to the only all-wooden naval warship ever built in the United States.
So if you’re looking for a fun and educational day trip with your kids, consider Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. You won’t be disappointed!
The Fort Washington Park
Fort Washington Park is a great place to take your kids for a day of fun and learning. The park has a lot of history to teach kids and plenty of outdoor activities like fishing and bird watching to keep them busy.
George Washington Memorial Parkway
Visiting George Washington memorial parkway in Maryland with kids is a great way to spend some time outdoors and learn about history. The parkway is a scenic road that runs from Mount Vernon, Virginia, to Cumberland, Maryland. Along the way, there are many places to stop and explore, including George Washington’s home at Mount Vernon, the Fort Washington Park, and the Antietam National Battlefield. There are also plenty of hiking trails and picnic areas to make a day of it. Kids will love learning about George Washington and seeing where he lived and fought in battle.
Glen Echo Park
Visiting Glen echo park in Maryland with kids is a great way to spend the day. There are many things for kids to do, including playing on the playground, going for a walk or a bike ride, and visiting the amusement park. There’s also a carousel, arcade, and gift shop. The park is beautiful, and there’s a lot to see and do, so it’s a great place to spend the day.
Greenbelt Park
Visiting Greenbelt park with kids is a great way to spend a day outdoors. The park has a playground, a nature center, and miles of trails for hiking and biking. There are also plenty of open areas where kids can run around and play and picnic areas. The park is located in Maryland, just outside Washington, D.C., so it’s easy to access.
Hampton National Historic Site (Tours of the mansion are closed for now)
Hampton National Historic Site is located in Towson, Maryland, and is a great place to visit with kids. The estate was once home to the Ridgely family, and there are plenty of things to see and do on the property. Tour the mansion, go for a walk in the gardens, and more.
And don’t forget your kids can become Junior Rangers! Youth of all ages can participate in the junior ranger program.
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
If you’re looking for a great place to take the kids on vacation, consider Harpers Ferry National Historical Park in Maryland. This park is located on the border of Maryland and Virginia. It offers plenty of activities for everyone in the family. You can explore the area’s history by visiting the various museums and historical sites or go for a hike on one of the many trails. There are also plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, including bicycling, cycling, hiking, fishing, kayaking, and rafting. And when you’re ready to relax, be sure to visit the park’s charming town of Harpers Ferry. You can also walk across the Potomac River on a pedestrian bridge to access the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park towpath.
If you love kayaking, here are some of the best places to go kayaking in Maryland!
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park
If there’s one thing that kids love, it’s learning about history – and what could be more interesting than visiting a national historical park? Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park is located in Maryland and celebrates the life of Harriet Tubman, a formerly enslaved person who became a conductor on the Underground Railroad. The park offers tours, exhibits, and educational programs, making it an excellent place for kids to learn about American history.
Monocracy National Battlefield
Visiting Monocracy national battlefield in Maryland with kids is a great way to learn about history and have fun. The park has many exhibits and activities that will keep everyone entertained, and there is plenty of open space for running around and exploring. The staff is amiable and happy to answer any questions you have about the park or the history of the battle. Be sure to visit the gift shop for some souvenirs and enjoy a picnic lunch in the park’s beautiful surroundings. Plus, as usual, they can participate in a junior ranger program.
Oxon Cove Park and Oxon Hill Farm
If you’re looking for an outdoor activity to do with your kids in Maryland, you should check out Oxon Cove Park and Oxon Hill Farm.
Oxon Cove Park is a great place to go for a hike or bike ride, and there’s also a playground and picnic area. Oxon Hill Farm is an animal farm with pigs, cows, horses, and more. Kids will love being able to pet the animals and learn about them. There’s also a miniature train ride and a restaurant on the farm. Through hands-on programs and other activities, your kids can experience farm life and how it has changed over time. They can also explore how the park has evolved from a plantation home to a hospital farm and now to the park you can visit today. Both Oxon Cove Park and Oxon Hill Farm are free to visit, so it’s a great budget-friendly option for a day out with your family.
Piscataway Park
If you’re looking for a fun day trip that the whole family can enjoy, look no further than Piscataway Park. This beautiful park is located in Maryland and is home to plenty of activities for kids of all ages.
There’s plenty to do at Piscataway Park, from fishing and hiking to biking and horseback riding. The park is also home to various animals, including deer, raccoons, and turtles, making it the perfect place for a nature lover’s getaway.
Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail
If you’re looking for a great way to spend a day with your kids, consider visiting the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail. This trail is located in Maryland and offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and learning through hiking, biking, and fishing. You’ll also find some beautiful scenery, so it’s worth visiting!
The Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail
The Star-spangled banner national historic trail is a great place to visit with your kids. The trail winds through Maryland, and there are plenty of things to see and do. The trail was established to commemorate the War of 1812, and there are several sites that you can visit along the way. For example, Fort McHenry is a great place to learn more about the history of the war. There are also several museums and parks that you can visit, and the trail is perfect for biking or hiking. So if you’re looking for a fun and educational experience, check out the Star-spangled banner national historic trail.
Thomas Stone National Historic Site
If you’re looking for a fun and educational day trip with your kids, look no further than Thomas stone national historic site in Maryland! This fascinating site is home to the house and gravesite of Thomas Stone, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Kids will love exploring the beautiful grounds and learning about American history. There’s plenty to see and do at Thomas stone, so plan a full-day visit!
Washington Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail
If you’re looking for a fun and educational adventure for your family, check out the Washington Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail. This historic trail runs through Maryland and is full of exciting sites and stories to keep your kids entertained for hours.
So if you’re looking for a fun and educational day out with your family, be sure to check out one of the beautiful national parks in Maryland. There’s something for everyone, and you’re sure to find the perfect park for your needs. So get out there and explore!
