Many of the local parks are used for recreational sports for the youth of Carroll County. However, there are several parks that provide a quiet, outdoor setting for picnicking and quiet reflection in an outdoor setting. The Community Pond, off of Rt. 140, attracts ducks and geese from far and wide. It also provides an accessible playground for youngsters. Piney Run Park and Hashawha Environmental Center both provide interesting nature centers.
A full list of all park facilities in Carroll County can be found at: http://ccgovernment.carr.org/ccg/recpark/default.asp.
Piney Run Park
ccgovernment.carr.org/ccg/recpark/pineyrun.asp
30 Martz Road
Sykesville, MD 21784
410-795-3274
Whether you like to boat, fish, hike, picnic, bird watch, play tennis, or just appreciate nature's beauty, Piney Run Park is yours to enjoy. Completed in 1974, this 300-acre lake is rich in environmental and recreational resources. Its clear waters are surrounded by 500 acres of beautiful woods, meadows and open space. The natural rural surroundings, combined with creative, informative programming for the public, make Piney Run Park an ideal place to discover and enjoy the out-of-doors. The Park is open April 1-October 31, 7 days a week, 6 a.m. to Sunset.
Piney Run Nature Center
ccgovernment.carr.org/ccg/recpark/pineyrun.asp
30 Martz Road
Sykesville, MD 21784
410-795-6043
The nature center provides approximately 300 programs each year to the general public. The center is open year-round: Tue-Fri 10-5, Sat and Sun 1-5 from April 1 to October 31; Tue-Fri 10-4 from November 1 to March 31. There are dozens of exhibits, including live reptiles, injured hawks, vultures, and owls. School programs are offered year-round. The naturalists are available to answer questions, lead hikes, and present programs.
Bear Branch Nature Center
ccgovernment.carr.org/ccg/recpark/hashawha/default.asp
300 John Owings Road
Westminster, MD 21158
410-848-2517
Bear Branch Nature Center is located in the rolling hills of northern Carroll County, next to Hashawha Environmental Center. Bear Branch Nature Center provides nature study and environmental education to all visitors. Programs for school groups, youth groups, and for all ages focus on native plant and animal life.
The Nature Center features a Library Resource Room, Bird Observation Room, Discovery Room, Exhibit Hall with insects, deer, Native Americans, and conservation exhibits, a 40-seat planetarium, and a Nature Gift Shop. Outside the Center you can enjoy the native plant landscaping, the "Bear Path"--a wheelchair accessible trail, and a large deck overlooking country vista.
Hashawha Environmental Center
ccgovernment.carr.org/ccg/recpark/hashawha/default.asp
300 John Owings Road
Westminster, MD 21157
410-848-9040
Hashawha Environmental Center's trails surround Bear Branch Nature Center. Be sure to pick up a trail map upon arrival if you plan on hiking. We ask that you familiarize yourself with the "rules of the trails" to ensure a pleasurable experience for all.