Maryland’s Newest State Parks And What To Expect At Each One

CALIFORNIA, Md. — Maryland has been on a run of adding new state parks. Between a historic Eastern Shore homestead, a mountain lodge retreat, a formerly enslaved family’s farmland and a long-inaccessible mountaintop overlook, the state has dedicated or opened access to several brand-new properties within roughly the past two years — and, as of this week, every county in Maryland finally has at least one state park of its own, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Whether you live in St. Mary’s, Calvert, Charles, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore or the Washington area, visiting one of these newer parks is a chance to see a different part of Maryland while supporting conservation and outdoor recreation. Below is a rundown of the state’s newest additions — how old each one is, what makes it worth a visit, and what to expect if you go.

Maryland’s Newest State Parks

Wetipquin Creek State Park — Wicomico County (dedicated July 21, 2026)

The newest of the bunch by a wide margin, Wetipquin Creek State Park was formally dedicated just two days ago, becoming Wicomico County’s first-ever state park, according to DNR. The 445-acre property sits along Wetipquin Creek near the Nanticoke River in Tyaskin and includes the historic Long Hill house, long associated with the Dashiell family of colonial Maryland, along with marsh and forest showcasing the Delmarva Peninsula’s natural features. The state approved the $3.3 million purchase in 2024 and completed it earlier this year, per DNR. With Wetipquin Creek’s dedication, every Maryland county now has at least one state park — Wicomico had been the only county without one, DNR said. The park is currently in the planning phase, so check DNR’s website before visiting for updates on public access.

Freedman’s State Park — Montgomery County (dedicated May 15, 2026)

Dedicated about two months ago, Freedman’s State Park preserves roughly 1,000 acres in northeastern Montgomery County connected to Enoch George Howard, who purchased his own freedom in 1851 and later bought the freedom of his wife, Harriet, and their children, eventually acquiring the very plantation property where his family had once been enslaved, according to DNR. The park includes the Howard Chapel Cemetery, the Howard Family Cemetery and the remaining ruins of the 1790s Locust Villa plantation home, along with the nearby Greenbury Howard house, built in 1870 and currently under restoration. DNR is developing the park in partnership with Preservation Maryland, the Sandy Spring Slave Museum and the Maryland Historical Trust, among others.

Savage Highlands State Park — Garrett County (acquired November 2024; opening expected late summer 2026)

Tucked into the mountains near Grantsville, Savage Highlands State Park is a roughly 40-acre former private retreat, Savage River Lodge, that the state purchased for about $8.7 million in November 2024, according to DNR. It’s surrounded on all sides by more than 700 acres of the existing Savage River State Forest. Once open, the park will offer 18 cabins and 8 yurts, each with private bathrooms and propane fireplaces, plus new backcountry campsites — a lodging setup that’s unusual for a Maryland state park. As of this summer, the property remains closed to the public while DNR completes renovations; the agency says it will reopen in phases beginning in late summer 2026, with initial access “controlled and event-based” before broader day-use and overnight access follow, per DNR’s park page.

Wills Mountain State Park — Allegany County (established 1998; opening to the public for the first time in 2026)

Wills Mountain State Park is technically Maryland’s oldest “newest” park. The 470-acre property overlooking the Cumberland Narrows was created in 1998, but it has remained essentially closed to the public for decades because the state lacked a legal access road, according to DNR. That changed after DNR purchased the adjacent former Artmor Plastics property in 2024 to create an access route, and the state has continued expanding the park’s footprint since, including a 195-acre expansion approved by the Maryland Board of Public Works in May 2026, according to DNR. Once open, visitors will be able to take in sweeping views stretching toward Pennsylvania and West Virginia, with future plans for hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing.

Also Worth Watching: Holly Beach Natural Resources Management Area — Anne Arundel County

Not technically a state park, but part of the same wave of new public land, Holly Beach is a 293-acre waterfront property on the Chesapeake Bay with views of the Bay Bridge. DNR has already opened it for hunting and is working to expand broader access, including a planned new pier for boaters and education groups, according to DNR.

What To Expect On Your First Visit

Because several of these parks are brand-new or still being developed, they may feel different from Maryland’s more established destinations.

Visitors to fully open parks may find well-maintained trails, parking areas and informational signs. At newly dedicated or still-developing properties like Wetipquin Creek, Savage Highlands and Wills Mountain, facilities are more limited while long-term improvements continue. Before heading out, check the specific park’s page on the Maryland DNR website for current hours, access restrictions and available amenities — some of the parks above are not yet open to unscheduled visits at all.

A quieter, less-developed park can still appeal to hikers, bird-watchers, photographers and anyone looking to spend time in nature without large crowds.

Plan Ahead Before You Go

A little preparation goes a long way, especially at a park that’s still being built out.

Before your visit, review the park’s rules, operating hours and available amenities. Confirm whether restrooms, picnic areas, drinking water or visitor services are available. If those services are limited, bring what you need for the day, including water, snacks and weather-appropriate clothing.

Maryland weather can change quickly throughout the year. Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent and rain gear can make a visit more enjoyable depending on the season.

If you plan to spend several hours outdoors, let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return, especially if you will be hiking less-traveled trails.

Respect Wildlife And Natural Habitats

Maryland’s parks protect important ecosystems that support a variety of wildlife.

Visitors should observe animals from a safe distance and avoid feeding them. Feeding wildlife can change natural behavior and create safety concerns for both animals and people.

Stay on designated trails whenever possible. Leaving established paths can damage vegetation, disturb sensitive habitats and contribute to erosion.

Packing out all trash helps preserve the landscape for future visitors. Even biodegradable items should be removed unless park guidance specifically says otherwise.

Know The Park Rules

Each Maryland state park has rules designed to protect visitors and natural resources.

Depending on the location, regulations may address pets, bicycles, fishing, boating, campfires or organized gatherings. Following posted signs and staff instructions helps create a safe experience for everyone. At Savage Highlands, for instance, DNR has said hunting will be prohibited within the park itself, even though hunting remains allowed in the surrounding Savage River State Forest.

Fishing and boating enthusiasts should also review any applicable licensing requirements and location-specific rules before arriving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Maryland’s newest state park? Wetipquin Creek State Park in Wicomico County, dedicated July 21, 2026, is currently the newest. Its opening also means every Maryland county now has at least one state park.

Are all of Maryland’s newest state parks open to the public? No. Wetipquin Creek, Savage Highlands and Wills Mountain are all still in various stages of planning, renovation or phased opening. Check the Maryland DNR website before visiting any of them.

Can I bring my dog to Maryland state parks? Many parks allow pets in certain areas, but rules vary by location. Savage Highlands, for example, plans to be pet-friendly in common areas and some cabins once open. Review each park’s guidelines before your visit.

When is the best time to visit Maryland state parks? Every season offers different experiences. Spring and fall are popular for comfortable temperatures, while summer and winter provide their own recreational opportunities depending on the park.

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