5 Vacation-Worthy Baltimore County Parks

Baltimore County is a treasure trove of outdoor destinations. 

For a quick, easy and inexpensive day trip, check out one of these nearby nature centers or parks. 

• 13555 Beaver Dam Rd., Cockeysville, MD 21030
• Tue-Sun, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Closed Mondays 
• From environmental education programs to extensive hiking grounds, this center is a must-see for families battling the lazy days of summer. Check out the website for frequent special events. 

• 7130 Marshy Point Rd., Middle River, MD 21220
• Center open daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., while the park is open 9 a.m. to dusk
• Water sports, campfires and even snake tutorials push this center above and beyond your average park. Sign up for a low-cost program or simply show up at the main building for a naturalistic adventure. 

• 2002 Cromwell Bridge Rd., Baltimore, MD 21234
• Park open daily, dawn to dusk, gates close at sunset, park office is open Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and closed Saturdays and Sundays
• Towson and Parkville aren't exactly known for their pastures and meadows—unless you frequent this 380-acre park, located between both communities. Park guides are anxious to share a simpler way of life with locals through multiple family-friendly programs.

Lillian Holt Park and Center for the Arts

• Holt Center, 34 Elmont Ave., Baltimore, MD 21236
• Park open daily, dawn to dusk
• Stargazing, craft-making, history and trails—this park's multiple programs are mainly the efforts of the Overlea Fullerton Recreation Council. The area includes an outdoor amphitheater, gazebo, lily pond and labyrinth. 

• 1000 Lakeside Dr., Baltimore, MD 21210
• Park open daily, dawn to dusk
• In addition to kayaking, canoeing and nature programs, this 415-acre park is one of the few in the county with a space designed especially for dogs—Paw Point dog park is a great source of summertime fun for the pooch, too.