Park Quest 2020

Patapsco Valley State Park Avalon Quest
"History, Herstory, Yourstory

Orange Grove fire in Patapsco Valley State ParkPut yourself in your shoes. Your task is to go out to the location where five photographs were taken in the past. At each site, try to imagine what is happening in the photograph. First write their story. Then recreate it and write your own story. This quest is located within the Avalon Area of Patapsco Valley State Park and only available in September and October.

The Avalon area can be very popular on summer weekends. We suggest you arrive in the morning as parking becomes difficult later in the afternoon. Occasionally, we may need to close the Avalon area once it reaches capacity. Families are encouraged to complete this quest during the week.​

Click here for the History, Herstory, Yourstory Park Quest Work Sheet

Patapsco Valley State Park

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​Founded in 1907 as the Patapsco Forest Reserve, Patapsco Valley State Park​ is Maryland’s oldest state park. It is the site of some of Maryland’s earliest mills and factories, America’s first common-carrier railroad, and the world’s first underwater hydroelectric plant. The Avalon Area consists of the Thomas Viaduct and the William Offutt Visitor’s Center, plus sites of the Avalon Iron Works, the Avalon Water Works, Camp Tydings, and Lost Lake. Also found within this area are several shelters, trails, water access, and several historic sites.

Ranger Offutt Johnson

Click here for Avalon Area
Patapsco Valley State Park Trail Maps ​

Address:

Patapsco Valley State Park - Avalon Area
5120 South Street
Halethorpe MD 21227
410-461-5005
GPS N 39-13'11.0 W 076-42'18.3


Driving Directions:

  • From the Beltway (I-695): Take Rt. 1 (Exit 12A) toward Elkridge. Follow Rt. 1 south about 3 miles to South St. Turn right. Park Entrance on the left.
  • From I-95: Take I-195 east Toward BWI. From I-195 take Rt. 1 South (Exit 3) and turn right toward Elkridge. Turn right onto south Street. Park Entrance is on the left.
  • From Howard County: Follow Rt. 1 through Elkridge and into Baltimore County. Turn left onto South St. park entrance is on the left.
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