ATTN. GUNPOWDER FALLS STATE PARKS VISITORS: These activities will be happening at and around Gunpowder Falls State Park (the park will be open).

The Department of Natural Resources is seeking public comment on the 2025-2035 Maryland State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP). This wide-ranging document examines the state’s plants and animals, outlining ways to support species of greatest conservation need – species which are rare, declining, or at risk of declining in Maryland – along with the key wildlife habitats where they are found. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service requires that each state review and revise its SWAP every 10 years. Maryland’s SWAP was originally published in 2005 and last updated in 2015. DNR spent 18 months updating the plan, working with more than 100 partner organizations. Now, DNR is seeking public comment to incorporate into the 2025 update. A draft of the plan can be found at dnr.maryland.gov, along with an online form to submit a comment. The public comment period is open through 5 p.m. on April 10. form.jotform.com/26068533176… The 2025 update includes a State Assessment Priority list for the first time. This list compiles species whose statuses in the state are unknown due to a lack of data. The 2025 update also includes a list of plant species of greatest conservation need. While a list of plant species is not required, DNR opted to include one to underscore the importance of plants to wildlife and habitats. The SWAP is a non-regulatory document designed to serve as a blueprint for conservation agencies and organizations in the state. DNR has used the SWAP to prioritize conservation actions and implement projects for Maryland’s declining habitats and species, such as coordinating the Maryland Amphibian and Reptile Atlas and conducting status assessments for numerous species of native bees and other beneficial insects.

Whether it be a first day hike or weekend trip in the new year, you might be considering enjoying one of our many Maryland state parks. However; before you go, there are some Ranger Things we’d like you to consider. To protect our parks, our mission focuses on protecting and preserving our resources: the natural, cultural, recreational, and historical. By practicing Leave No Trace principles, you can do your part to keep our public lands looking right side up. This quick PSA features Ranger Kirby Brown of Assateague State Park with a quick reminder that while recreating in our parks, we should also be mindful of wildlife. When bringing food into the parks, make sure it is properly stored when not being enjoyed, and any leftovers or trash be placed in proper waste containers. The “pack it in, pack it out” practice is an easy way to remember to leave our parks as you found them and is a part of Leave No Trace ethics. To read about all the components of Leave No Trace, you can find more info at dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands…. #RangerThings #LeaveNoTrace #MarylandParks #StrangerThings #MarylandDNR #Assateague #EgoWaffles #Eleven

Whether it be a first day hike or weekend trip in the new year, you might be considering enjoying one of our many Maryland state parks. However; before you go, there are some Ranger Things we’d like you to consider. To protect our parks, our mission focuses on protecting and preserving our resources: the natural, cultural, recreational, and historical. By practicing Leave No Trace principles, you can do your part to keep our public lands looking right side up. This quick PSA features Ranger Cierra Maszkiewicz of the Southern Maryland Recreational Complex sharing about the significance of cultural resources within our parks. Specifically, Cedarville State Forest has an extensive history of cultural resources, which should both be enjoyed and cherished by visitors. Practicing Leave No Trace efforts and being mindful of these spaces goes a long way in keeping our natural areas and the stories they contain intact for generations to come. To read about all the components of Leave No Trace, you can find more info at dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands…. #RangerThings #LeaveNoTrace #MarylandParks #StrangerThings #MarylandDNR #CedarvilleStateForest #RunUpThatHill

Whether it be a first day hike or weekend trip in the new year, you might be considering enjoying one of our many Maryland state parks. However; before you go, there are some Ranger Things we’d like you to consider. To protect our parks, our mission focuses on protecting and preserving our resources: the natural, cultural, recreational, and historical. By practicing Leave No Trace principles, you can do your part to keep our public lands looking right side up. This quick PSA features Ranger Jamie Petrucci of Patapsco Valley State Park describing our “pack it in, pack it out” practice, which is a part of DNR’s Leave No Trace efforts (leave the parks as you find them). To read about all the components of Leave No Trace, you can find more info at dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands… #RangerThings #LeaveNoTrace #MarylandParks #StrangerThings #MarylandDNR

Did you know that Sandy Point State Park offers more than just beaches? It also features beautiful trails! And if you're looking to walk off your Thanksgiving turkey dinner, the Blue Crab Trail is the perfect post-feast adventure. On your next visit, try exploring this scenic 0.7-mile loop—it winds through peaceful wooded paths and opens up to stunning views along the Chesapeake Bay shoreline. It’s just the right length for a refreshing walk that helps you unwind, reset, and enjoy the crisp late-fall air.

Get ready for an unforgettable ride at Wolf Den Run State Park in Oakland, where an expanding off-road vehicle trail network takes you into the wilderness. The park in Western Maryland features more than 50 miles of Jeep, dirtbike, and side-by-side trails waiting to be explored. Many routes are former mining or logging roads, offering wide, open paths that accommodate larger vehicles. Adventure seekers will love that Trail 2103 is part of the Jeep Badge of Honor trail program. Drivers who take on the challenge and complete the trail earn an exclusive badge they can proudly display on their vehicle. Trail 2103 winds through the Potomac River Area, following the north branch of the Potomac River into a rocky, forested landscape. The route features dramatic rock outcroppings, rugged mountain sides, open meadows, wetlands, and small tributaries. Depending on the season, drivers may encounter splashes and shallow water features along the way. Before you hit the dirt, riders can stop by the registration office or use the online reservations link. The office is located at 1699 Upperman Road, Oakland, MD 21550, and is open daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Park staff are happy to help and can be reached at 301-334-1272. Riders can help protect these amazing trails by recreating responsibly. Stay on designated routes, respect wildlife, and be courteous to other trail users. Good stewardship includes crossing streams at a 90 degree angle, using four wheel low and first gear for engine braking, going over rocks instead of around them to prevent erosion, and avoiding wet trails to protect sensitive terrain. Gear up, ride smart, and experience the wild side of Wolf Den Run State Park. #ORVMaryland #WolfDenRunStatePark #JeepBadgeOfHonorTrail #WesternMaryland

Win a Maryland State Park Pass! Maryland nature lovers, we need your help promoting Maryland’s most beautiful places. All we’re asking is that you comment on our video on our Facebook page and share your favorite natural place to visit in Maryland. facebook.com/MarylandDNR/vid… At the end of September, we’re going to take the names of everyone that shared their favorite natural areas in the Facebook comments, enter those names into a raffle, and five lucky winners will receive state park passes for a full year, full-size MAWS blue catfish posters, and brand new 2026 DNR Calendars featuring DNR photo contest winners once they’re completed later this year. The names of the winners will be announced on Sept. 30. Good luck and thank you for helping us to promote the wonderful wildlife and beautiful landscapes that make Maryland such a special place to live and visit!

Assateague State Park has issued double red flag conditions, meaning all ocean access is prohibited—this includes swimming, surfing, wading, and any other water activities. While the beach remains open at this time, it may close if conditions worsen and access becomes unsafe due to rising storm surge. Tropical Storm Erin, a large and powerful system, is bringing increasing wave activity, coastal flooding, and hazardous surf conditions. A Tropical Storm Watch is now in effect for coastal waters, and the risk of rip currents is high. Beach and dune erosion is expected, particularly from Wednesday evening through Thursday as the storm passes offshore. The campground remains open, and all campers have been advised to monitor updates, follow all safety restrictions, and secure any loose items.

End of Season Pool Hours: The pool at Dans Mountain State Park will be closed Aug. 25 through Aug. 29, due to a shortage of lifeguards as staff return to school. All scheduled pool parties will be honored. The pool will be open Aug. 30, Aug. 31, and Sept. 1, from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

The 2025 DNR Calendar, Celebrating Nature, highlights the diverse wildlife and unique habitats that define Maryland. Grab one for yourself, or give it as a thoughtful gift to family, friends, or colleagues! Order yours today. ow.ly/OQ3T50UiIIX

🚫🔥The Maryland statewide burn ban remains in effect due to ongoing dry conditions, high fuel levels, low humidity, and gusty winds. Despite recent rain, fire danger remains high. We are monitoring the situation and hope to lift the ban once conditions improve. #MDwx #FireDanger

🚫🔥 Frequently asked questions (FAQ's) about the Maryland statewide burn ban: ow.ly/uAHI50U2BtR

🚫🔥 Maryland Department of Natural Resources Enacts Statewide Burn Ban Dry, windy conditions have increased fire risk across the state and fueled ongoing wildfires Read more: ow.ly/EMiF50TYgN4

🚫 Maryland Department of Natural Resources Enacts Statewide Burn Ban Dry, windy conditions have increased fire risk across the state and fueled ongoing wildfires Read more: ow.ly/EMiF50TYgN4

VOTE: As part of our annual photo contest, we have chosen additional photos for YOU to select as the Fan Favorite photo! “Like” the picture that is your favorite by Oct. 22 at 5pm EST. The photo with the most likes will be in our 2025 calendar. Vote here: ow.ly/fJTg50TGWkP

Maryland Outdoor Recreation Summit 2024 Join us for the inaugural Maryland Outdoor Recreation Summit at Rocky Gap Resort on October 9-11! Register now to learn, grow and network with over 200 recreation enthusiasts in Allegany County. Register here: ow.ly/zBaF50TeMrj