Maryland State Parks Announces More Reservation Requirements, Added QR Payment System

ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Nine Maryland state parks will now require reservations on weekends and holidays through Labor Day, according to a June 25 press release from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

In addition to the reservation system, Maryland DNR is implementing a QR code-based payment system at Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area, in which visitors scan a QR code on signage to pay their day-use fee online. An honor box will remain in place for those who need to pay cash. Fair Hill doesn’t require reservations.

The list has been refined after the Maryland Park Service launched a one-year pilot system in response to overcrowding at the parks that caused issues within the parks themselves as well as traffic backups in the surrounding areas. According to the press release, the Maryland Park Service experienced 166 capacity closures in 2024, and parks would turn guests away, sometimes after a long wait, because there was no more space. In 2025, there were no capacity closures.

Reservations can be made up to seven days in advance, and the system does accept same-day reservations depending on availability.

Residents and visitors can make reservations for the parks online.

Each park’s hours and rules may vary, so potential guests are encouraged to check each park’s website for up-to-date information and consult the Park Status Dashboard.

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