Maryland’s State Parks have always been places where everyone can bring their family to engage in a wide variety of outdoor recreational activities in beautiful surroundings. Increasingly, there is a desire for the family pet to be included in that experience. While the Maryland Park Service has historically created opportunities for visitors to recreate with their pets, certain areas have been off-limits. As part of a continuous effort to improve visitor experiences in Maryland State Parks, we have undertaken a comprehensive review of the existing pet policy and developed proposed changes. We would greatly appreciate hearing from you regarding these proposals before we finalize an implementation plan. Please tell us what you think of the changes by clicking here, which will take you directly to our on-line comments page. If you would prefer to send your comments by mail, please address them to: Pet Policy Comments, Maryland Park Service, 580 Taylor Avenue, E-3, Annapolis, MD 21401. Public comments will be accepted through close of business on November 30, 2009.
Code of Maryland Regulations (08.07.06.17). Pets (1) Except for guide service dogs, pets of any kind are not allowed in a picnic area, cabin area, camping area, or other restricted area of a state park. (2) The Service reserves the right to designate pet areas in a state park. In these areas pets shall be on a leash with a maximum length of 6 feet. B. Undeveloped Areas. Pets are permitted on a leash with a maximum length of 10 feet.
The pass offers: unlimited day-use entry for everyone in the vehicle (up to 10 people) to Maryland's state parks and Cedarville State Forest; unlimited boat launching at most facilities; and a 10 percent discount on state-operated concessions and boat rentals. For parks with honor box systems, the pass covers entry service charges. The 2010 Passport expires December 31, 2010. Modification or reproduction of the Maryland State Park Passport for personal or commercial use is strictly prohibited. Violators may be prosecuted.
Providing a Safe Environment for All Visitors
New Alcohol Policy
The Maryland Park Service provides outdoor recreational experiences for 11 million visitors annually. In order to maintain a safe, family-oriented outdoor recreation environment, the Maryland Park Service is further regulating the consumption of alcoholic beverages in State Parks as follows: Effective March 31, 2009
Effective November 1, 2009
The Maryland Park Advisory Commission was created by legislation to advise the Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources on state park matters. All nine members serve at the pleasure of the Governor of Maryland.
The Park Advisory Commission wants to hear your suggestions, criticisms and compliments on the management of Maryland's state parks. The Park Advisory Commission meets quarterly. Visit the Commission's webpage at www.dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pac.html
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The Maryland State Park Passport is a great value at $75 for Maryland residents or for $100 for
out-of-state residents. 
