Disc Golf Challenge

The Patapsco Park Quest is to complete a nine-hole round of disc golf. Invented in the 1970’s, disc golf is similar to regular golf, but instead of a small white ball and an assortment of heavy, expensive clubs, you will use a few light inexpensive discs or Frisbees. The object is the same as regular golf, but instead of using a ball, you try to get your disc into the “hole” in the fewest number of throws as possible. Disc golf is a great outdoor activity that provides good exercise with a very low chance of injury. You will be given all you need for your Quest when you check in at the McKeldin Contact Station. To complete the front nine holes of the course, you will throw your discs over fields and through the woods as you go. The Quest will take about an hour and a half and require about a mile and a quarter of walking. On each hole there will be some letters. Write down and unscramble the letters to come up with an answer to the question that will be presented at the Contact Station upon returning the discs. Don’t forget to get your passport stamped before you leave. Anyone can play this fun game!

Quest Information

This Quest will take place in the McKeldin area of Patapsco Valley State Park. Park Quest Teams can check in and pick up their discs and instructions at the Contact Station. Discs (or Frisbees) will be given out on a first come, first served basis. Teams are welcome to bring their own. Teams may begin this Quest any day of the week from 9 am until 3 pm. All discs must be returned to the Contact Station before 5 pm.

Or, Park Quest Teams may choose to complete their Quest while participating in a free Disc Golf Clinic offered by our outfitters, Discover Outdoor Fitness. Clinic times can be found on our web site.

Reasonable accommodations can be made for the disabled by calling Park Headquarters at 410-461-5005 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in advance of your visit.

No pets are allowed on the disc golf course.

Directions to McKeldin Area of Patapsco Valley State Park:

The McKeldin Area of Patapsco Valley State Park is located in Carroll County.

• From I-695/I-70 West take I-70 to Marriottsville Road. (Exit 83). Go north on Marriottsville Road. for 4 miles to the park entrance on the right after you cross the railroad tracks.
• From I-70 East take Rt. 40 to Marriottsville Road. Turn left. Travel 5 miles on Marriottsville Road. Park entrance will be on the right after you cross the railroad tracks.
• From Rt. 26 take Rt. 26 to Marriottsville Road. Go South 4 miles, park entrance is on the left about a half mile after Wards Chapel Road.
• Make a reservation to stay at the park.

Park facts:

Patapsco Valley became the first Maryland State Park when it was established as a forest reserve in 1907 with only 43 acres of donated land. Soon after it was established many people visited the park to get away from urban congestion and spend time camping. Many people “lived” in the park during the summer, commuting to work on the train that stopped in the park. Development of the park infrastructure really accelerated in the 1930s with the establishment of the Civilian Conservation Corp or CCC. The CCC built the campground, picnic areas, and shelters, many of which are still used today. In 1972, Hurricane Agnes caused major flooding in the Patapsco River Valley, destroying park structures and many old mills and towns. Although tragic to the people living in the area and tragic to lose so many historic structures, the flood made the land inexpensive enough for the state to purchase. This new park land acquisition is today protecting the Patapsco River and the Chesapeake Bay. Today, Patapsco Valley State Park contains over 14,000 acres and provides very important habitat for a variety of Maryland’s wildlife. In addition, the park is a major recreation area for the Baltimore metropolitan area that provides for many city residents the wonderful outdoor experience we all need.