​​​​​In addition to supporting and enhancing outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the state, we increase equitable access to outdoor recreation, implement the recommendations of the Maryland Outdoor Recreation Economic Commission (MOREC)​, assist current outdoor recreation businesses, work with local leaders to expand outdoor recreation, and increase revenue streams through outdoor recreation opportunities.

The outdoor recreation economy in Maryland already generates 109,000 direct jobs, $14 billion in consumer spending, $4.4 billion in wages and salaries, and $951 million in state and local tax revenue. Investment in outdoor recreation and nature and heritage tourism economies support many outdoor activities in Maryland.

​The Department of Natural Resources Activities and Events shares the many opportunities throughout the state in all four seasons.

Our Mission

The office of outdoor recreation strives to provide environmentally-awareness-bringing, educative, economically progressive, health-bringing, and accessible outdoor recreation to residents and visitors of Maryland in all four seasons.

Our Outdoor Recreation Pillars

We abide by these five pillars and depend on them to guide our actions.

1. Environmental Conservation & Stewardship
2. Education & Workforce Development
3. Economic Development
4. Exercise Health & Wellness​
   
5. Equity, Access & Inclusion​
   

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All Four Seasons

Maryland strives to create outdoor experiences that encourage residents and visitors to recreate during the entire year. There are a variety of unique and overlapping activities that can be completed in the Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall. We hope you explore Maryland during all four seasons- You’re Welcome!