List of National Parks in Maryland: A Guide for Tourists
Maryland has 9 National Parks:
- Antietam National Battlefield
- Assateague Island National Seashore
- Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
- Clara Barton National Historic Site
- Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
- Hampton National Historic Site
- Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
- Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park
- Monocacy National Battlefield
In this article I will write about these National Parks (infomation, things to do, weather). I also add Maryland National Parks map at the end of the article.
List of National Parks in Maryland
1. Antietam National Battlefield
Antietam National Battlefield, located in Sharpsburg, Maryland, is a site of significant historical importance. It commemorates the Battle of Antietam, fought on September 17, 1862, during the American Civil War. This battle is known as the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with around 23,000 soldiers killed, wounded, or missing.
- Address: 302 E Main St, Sharpsburg, MD 21782, United States
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/anti/index.htm
- Phone Number: +1 301-432-5124
- Rating: 4.8/5 (1207 votes on Google map)
2. Assateague Island National Seashore
Assateague Island National Seashore is a stunning barrier island located off the coasts of Maryland and Virginia. It’s famous for its pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and wild horses.
- Address: 7206 National Seashore Lane, Berlin, MD 21811, United States
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/asis/index.htm
- Phone Number: +1 410-641-1441
- Rating: 4.8/5 (9456 votes on Google map)
Here are some things to do and see at Assateague Island National Seashore:
1. Wildlife Viewing
- Wild Horses: The island is famous for its wild horses, often seen roaming the beaches and marshes.
- Bird Watching: The island is a haven for bird watchers, with species like herons, egrets, and ospreys.
- Other Wildlife: Look out for deer, foxes, and various marine life.
2. Beaches
- Swimming: Enjoy swimming in the Atlantic Ocean at one of the island’s sandy beaches.
- Sunbathing: Relax and sunbathe on the expansive, uncrowded beaches.
- Beachcombing: Explore the shoreline for shells and other treasures washed ashore.
3. Hiking and Biking
- Trails: Explore the island’s diverse habitats on trails like the Life of the Dunes Trail, Life of the Forest Trail, and Life of the Marsh Trail.
- Biking: Bring your bike or rent one and ride on designated trails and roads.
3. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park (C&O Canal) stretches over 184.5 miles from Georgetown in Washington, D.C. to Cumberland, Maryland. The park preserves the remains of the historic canal and offers numerous recreational opportunities.
- Address: 11710 Macarthur Blvd, Potomac, MD 20854, United States
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/choh/index.htm
- Phone Number: +1 301-582-0813
- Rating: 4.7/5 (2716 votes on Google map)
Here are some things to do and see at the C&O Canal National Historical Park:
Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center
- Exhibits and Displays: Learn about the canal’s history, the people who built and worked on it, and the engineering marvels of the time.
- Ranger Programs: Join ranger-led programs and guided tours.
Lockhouses
- Lockhouse Rentals: Stay overnight in a historic lockhouse through the Canal Quarters program, with each lockhouse furnished to reflect different historical periods.
Paw Paw Tunnel
- Tunnel Walk: Walk through the 3,118-foot-long Paw Paw Tunnel, an impressive engineering feat. Bring a flashlight for better visibility.
Harpers Ferry
- Historic Town: Visit Harpers Ferry, where the canal meets the Potomac River. Explore museums, historic buildings, and Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.
Cumberland Visitor Center
- History Exhibits: Learn about the canal’s western terminus and its impact on the region.
Wildlife Viewing
- Bird Watching: The park is ideal for bird watching, with opportunities to see waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds.
- Wildlife: Spot deer, turtles, beavers, and other wildlife along the canal and river.
Scenic Views
- Great Falls: Visit the Great Falls of the Potomac for stunning views of cascading waterfalls and rapids.
- River Views: Enjoy scenic vistas of the Potomac River along the towpath.
4. Clara Barton National Historic Site
The Clara Barton National Historic Site, located in Glen Echo, Maryland, offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and legacy of Clara Barton, the pioneering nurse and founder of the American Red Cross. This historic site, nestled in the charming suburb of Washington, D.C., is dedicated to preserving the home and headquarters of one of America’s most beloved humanitarian figures.
- Address: 5801 Oxford Rd, Glen Echo, MD 20812, United States
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/clba/index.htm
- Phone Number: +1 301-320-1410
- Rating: 4.4/5 (142 votes on Google map)
The Clara Barton National Historic Site also offers a variety of educational programs aimed at students, teachers, and history enthusiasts. These programs highlight Barton’s contributions to nursing, her role in the Civil War, and her efforts in establishing the American Red Cross. Special programs and events are often held to commemorate significant anniversaries and milestones in Barton’s life and work.
5. Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, nestled on the shores of Baltimore Harbor in Maryland, stands as a testament to American history and resilience. This historic site gained fame during the War of 1812 when it successfully defended Baltimore Harbor from British attack, inspiring Francis Scott Key to pen what would become the national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
- Address: 2400 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230, United States
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/fomc/index.htm
- Phone Number: +1 410-962-4290
- Rating: 4.8/5 (5903 votes on Google map)
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine stands as a proud symbol of American courage and resilience, inviting visitors to explore its rich history and reflect on the enduring spirit that defines the nation. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, patriot, or simply curious about America’s past, a visit to Fort McHenry promises an enlightening and inspiring experience.
6. Hampton National Historic Site
Hampton National Historic Site in Towson, Maryland, offers a captivating glimpse into American history through the lens of the influential Ridgely family and their grand estate from the late 18th to early 19th centuries.
- Address: 535 Hampton Ln, Towson, MD 21286, United States
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/hamp/index.htm
- Phone Number: +1 410-823-1309
- Rating: 4.6/5 (524 votes on Google map)
7. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, situated at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers in West Virginia, is a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure. Harpers Ferry played a crucial role in the Civil War, changing hands multiple times between Union and Confederate forces. Visit the Lower Town to explore museums, historic buildings, and exhibits that depict life during the war.
- Address: 171 Shoreline Dr, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425, United States
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/hafe/index.htm
- Phone Number: +1 304-535-6029
- Rating: 4.4/5 (3404 votes on Google map)
8. Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park
Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park commemorates the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman, a heroic figure in American history renowned for her efforts in leading enslaved individuals to freedom through the Underground Railroad.
- Address: 2055 Alcoa Hwy, Alcoa, TN 37701, United States
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/hafe/index.htm
- Phone Number: +1 865-342-3000
- Rating: 4.4/5 (11361 votes on Google map)
9. Monocacy National Battlefield
Monocacy National Battlefield, located near Frederick, Maryland, commemorates the pivotal Battle of Monocacy Junction during the American Civil War. This historic site offers visitors a blend of scenic landscapes and compelling historical narratives
- Address: 5201 Urbana Pike, Frederick, MD 21704, United States
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/mono/index.htm
- Phone Number: +1 301-662-3515
- Rating: 4.6/5 (1092 votes on Google map)
Maryland National Parks Map
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