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Community Corner

'Staycation' to Crofton's Local Parks

Exploring Local Parks In Your Backyard.

With spring in the air many families are looking to outdoor adventures.  But like April showers, the price of gas may dampen your spirits.  However, there are many local parks providing outdoor adventures that are not only free but also may be within walking or biking distance from your home. 

 

Tucked into the woods along Davidsonville Road is Crofton Park.  It has two play structures that are almost entirely shaded, great for kids and parents on hot days. 

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There are picnic tables and places to grill within view of the play areas.  Plus, restrooms within walking distance.  A special feature of Crofton Park is the one mile paved nature trail that winds through the woods and pond.  Also available for reservations is an amphitheater and pavilion area. 

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Three miles away on Davidsonville Road is the bustling Bell Branch Athletics Complex. Although many youth sports activities take place at the complex, there are other features. 

 

An interest to many locals is one of only five ‘dog parks’ in Anne Arundel County.  Dog parks have special areas set aside for off-leash dog activities.  Centrally located between the athletic fields are a large playground, picnic tables and a concession stand that is open seasonally.  There is also a pavilion that can reserved.   

 

Further down the road is Davidsonville Park.  The park includes many athletic fields, a playground and a concession stand that is open seasonally.  There are a number of hiking trails that vary in distance. 

 

For boating enthusiasts the park features a car top boat launch into the Patuxent River.  According the Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation and Parks, if you would like a copy of the Cartop Boat Launch Site Guide, Canoe & Kayak Launch Sites and Fishing Spots brochure or for additional information contact the Park Administration office at (410) 222-7317.

 

Odenton Park offers a wide variety of activities including hiking trails and an exercise course.  Located off Strawberry Lake Way, the park not only has athletic fields but tennis and baskets ball courts as well.  A playground, picnic area and a pavilion can be found at the park also.  Open seasonally is a concession stand.  It should be noted that it is important to park only in the designated facility parking lots. 

 

If you are looking for more activities around Crofton, the Spring Program Guide for the Anne Arundel County Recreation and Parks program is available now.  It includes activities for the spring months.  It offers recreation programs for all ages and listings of any special events at regional parks.  The guide can be downloaded from the county web site www.aacounty.org

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