The comment period for the Maryland Park Service’s Proposed Pet Policy has ended. We appreciate the very thoughtful comments and helpful suggestions we have received from our visitors. In just over a month, nearly 600 comments were posted by those in favor of, and opposed to, the proposed policy changes. All of those comments will factor significantly in the final decisions made regarding this issue which is obviously very important to those who visit and value their State Parks. We ask that all of those who provided their perspectives join with us in respecting the opinions of others as we craft a policy which strikes the proper balance in providing recreational opportunities for our visitors and helping us protect your State Parks. 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 undertook a comprehensive review of the existing pet policy and developed proposed changes. We then presented those proposed changes to our visitors and asked that they help us develop a policy that meets their needs. The proposed pet policy changes were developed with consideration for the opinions and perspectives of park staff and visitors who have contacted us about this specific issue over the years. We also reviewed pet policies employed by similar parks and recreational facilities in Maryland and in other states. In our proposed policy, we have tried to expand pet access, while minimizing potential visitor conflicts. We will now consider the additional comments received through our outreach to those who have an interest in helping us fine-tune the new policy. As we craft that final policy, park managers will retain the discretion to prohibit pets from certain facilities within areas where pets are allowed (e.g. visitor centers, playgrounds). Service animals will still be allowed in all areas open to their owners. Current regulations requiring that all pets be leashed and owners clean up after their pets will remain in effect. The attached information describes the proposed adjustments to the Maryland Park Service Pet Policy, organized by region of the state and then by individual park. So that you can clearly understand the proposed changes, the current policy information is provided for comparison and changes are noted in red. Although the official comment period has ended, we are always available to our visitors who have comments and suggestions about any aspect of the operation, safety and maintenance of their State Parks. Thank you for your interest in your state parks, and for having taken the time to share your thoughts on this very important topic. As we move forward together, we will make your State Parks the best places they can be…for everyone.
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. 
