Maryland State Parks have broken visitor records for the past two years, and 2021 is well on the way to meet or exceed those unprecedented numbers.
While the Maryland Department of Natural Resources is delighted to see more people immerse themselves in nature and discover our 75 beautiful state parks – many for the first time – this trend has presented some significant challenges. The sheer number of visitors, coupled with many newcomers who are new to resource-based outdoor recreation, has resulted in a significant increase in litter, road damage, parking problems, user conflicts and other resource pressures.
“It’s wonderful that so many visitors enjoy our state parks, but we also need to be vigilant to protect the resources that people enjoy,” said Maryland Park Service Superintendent Nita Settina. “That’s why we’re raising awareness of the simple but important ways visitors can keep their parks green and clean.”
Through a longstanding partnership with the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics Inc., the Maryland Park Service will educate visitors about several simple principles that will help them make responsible choices to better minimize their impact while maximizing their outdoor recreational experience .
The seven principles of Leave No Trace
1. Know before you go. Before you visit, plan ahead and be prepared for any special considerations or regulations that may limit your activities in a particular park or area. Visit the website of the park you are visiting for the latest information. Proper preparation is the most important first step in minimizing your impact.
2. Stick to Trails and Camp Overnight Right. Maryland’s public land has more than 1,000 miles of hiking trails. We ask all hikers, bikers and riders to stay on these designated paths for their own safety and to protect the plants along the way. Campers should only camp on existing or designated campsites to avoid damaging the vegetation and store their camping equipment on the provided camp pad.
3. Dispose of your trash. To reduce the amount of trash and unsightly bins, Maryland State Parks removed their trash bins more than 25 years ago, encouraging visitors to “pack and unpack” or take their trash with them. If you don’t see trash cans, take your trash with you.
4. Leave what you find. Maryland’s parks are full of beautiful natural wonders and significant historical resources. These natural and cultural resources should be protected so that everyone can see and appreciate them. Leave plants, stones and historical objects as you find them for others to enjoy. Treat living plants with respect. Carving, chopping, or peeling plants and trees can open them up to infection or kill them.
5. Be careful with fire. A campfire is a great part of any outdoor experience, but it’s also potentially the most dangerous. Use a camping stove for cooking. Ovens are easier to cook and have less impact than a fire. If you want to make a bonfire make sure that it is legal and safe to make a fire in the area you are visiting. Use only the fire rings that are in place to protect the floor from heat and keep your fire small.
6. Keep Wildlife Free. One of the greatest thrills of outdoor adventure is seeing a variety of wild animals that most people would not normally see near their home. However, remember that this is your home and we are only guests. Observe wildlife from a distance and never approach, feed, or follow them.
7. Be considerate of other visitors. As more and more people are looking for healthy outdoor activities, it becomes even more important that visitors respect each other and give each other the space to enjoy the resources in their own way. Make sure that no one is bothered by the fun you are having outdoors.
