Patapsco Valley State Park - Hollofield Area — Attraction in Ellicott City

All in all, we enjoyed our stay. We spent 3 nights at Hollofield Campground. They have pretty large campsites with lots of shade.

However, we were very disappointed in a couple of realities.

1. There is a single potable water spigot for the entire campground. Further, it often doesn't work. When it wasn't working and we needed water I approached one of the park rangers and asked if they knew the potable water wasn't working. She explained that spigot often gives them fits and they haven't been able to figure out what is wrong with it. So, the entire campground is often without potable water.

That is totally absurd and borderline negligent.

We felt very fortunate that it happened to be working on the morning we left and could fill our fresh water tank before we started a boondocking stint for 5 days.

2. The showers are atrocious. Ironically, we always found the toilets and sinks clean, but the showers were nasty as can be during our stay. Mold and slime on the walls and floors along with tons of spider webs and bugs. Looked like they hadn't been cleaned in ages, despite supposedly being cleaned daily.

There's really no excuse for the condition we found them in. A little soap and scrubbing with a brush would go a long way.

We live and travel full-time in our RV, so have lots of campground bathroom experience. These were probably the nastiest showers we've ever experienced. (My wife agrees with me regarding the women's as well, whose shower heads were also broken.)

We acknowledge the signage on the door telling that they were anxiously awaiting some "bathroom rehab" but that really doesn't excuse the lack of attention to making the effort to clean what they have.

This was our first experience with a State Park in Maryland. I sure hope others are managed better (more WORKING potable water spigots and truly...

A Thrilling Escape into Nature

As a tourist seeking a break from the urban jungle, Patapsco State Park and River in Maryland was a breath of fresh air (and the kind without car exhaust!). Spanning over 16,000 acres along the Patapsco River, this park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts like myself.

Hiking Trails for Every Level:

My adventure began with a hike on the Grist Mill Trail in the Avalon area. This moderate 3.5-mile loop hugged the riverbank, offering stunning views of the water cascading over rocks and lush greenery carpeting the hillsides.

Tips for Tourists:

The park is divided into seven sections, each with its own unique character and amenities. Choose the area that best suits your interests. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months. Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially near the water. Insect repellent is a must! Check the park website for closures and special events before your visit.

Overall Impression:

Patapsco State Park and River exceeded my expectations. It's a place where you can reconnect with nature, challenge yourself physically, and simply relax and soak in the beauty of the outdoors. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a nature newbie, Patapsco has something for everyone. I left feeling rejuvenated and with a newfound appreciation for the natural world. So, if you're looking for an escape from the city and a chance to create lasting memories, add Patapsco State Park and River to your travel list. You won't be disappointed!

Rating: 5...

Good for hiking. I know you're probably surprised because no one else has mentioned that there are hiking trails here that you and your friends and your family can hike. But it's truly true. Put on your hiking gear and drive down here and go for a hike. Out in nature where they have bushes and trees. Also rocks and leaves. These are all things you can see if you go to the park and walk around on the trails, which some people call hiking. It sure beats the mall! And it's good exercise plus you can bring your camera along and take pictures of yourself and your friends and family hiking together. You don't even need to lug around a big old-fashioned camera (unless you want to) -- you can just use your cellphone camera. That will probably take great pictures of your hiking crew. Then you will remember the time you went for a hike in the woods and had a good time. Even if it rains a little.

Well, what are you waiting for!?! (If it is currently night time then it is good for you to wait until the park opens in the morning, but in the meantime you could get ready by packing water and some snacks. Everyone loves snacks! When you bring out the snacks your hiking crew will give you a high-five or a big hug or an infinitesimally small nod of approval, depending on how emotionally demonstrative they are. But it will...