After back-to-back years of record-setting attendance, Maryland’s recreational attractions are ready to welcome visitors back to the parks this spring.

The state is celebrating the first official Maryland State Park Week from April 10-16. Announced by Lieutenant Governor Boyd K. Rutherford at the Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area in Owings Mills, the weeklong event will highlight our local outdoor recreational areas, which feature more than 900 miles of trails across the state.

With 75 state parks available to visit, it’s no surprise that Maryland welcomed nearly 15 million visitors in 2019, and increased to a record-shattering 21.5 million visitors in 2020. Last year’s 45 percent increase is partially attributed to residents seeking out affordable and socially-distanced activities during the pandemic.

Later this month, Maryland’s local destinations will also celebrate National Park Week. Held from April 17-25, the celebration provides support to the 18 National Park sites, and dozens of other historic landmarks and national trails, located across the state. According to the National Park Service, more than 6.8 million visitors traveled to Maryland’s NPS sites in fiscal year 2019, generating more than $312 million in tourism revenue.

Learn more about recreation, culture, and arts in Maryland

Photo courtesy of the Executive Office of the Governor