Cunningham Falls State park will be CLOSED May 17, 18 and 19 for G-8 Summit.

5/19: Canoe the Mattaponi - Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary and Visitor's Center
Join us far a guided paddle along the Mattaponi off of the Patuxent River. All experience levels welcome. This program has limited space. To register call 301-888-1377 or e-mail kjarboe@dnr.state.md.us If you regularly canoe or kayak and would like to bring your own gear you are more than welcome, otherwise canoes, safety gear, and paddles are available. Please call 301-888-1377 for more information. This event is FREE!
5/19: History Hike: the Patapsco River Valley - Patapsco Valley State Park
Hunting elk and buffalo in the valley? Gen. Robert E. Lee and John Wilkes Booth in the area? A Civil War steam gun confiscated here? The largest producing mills in the country here? The resident of a 13,000 acre estate influencing the change from tobacco farming to grain production? The first steam-powered boat in the U.S. operating here? Horses pulling train cars through the area? Two National Historical Monuments here? A 45-foot deep raging Patapsco River? Come and find out about these and much more of the fascinating history of the valley. Find out why some have called the Patapsco "the river that built America". A Volunteer Ranger will lead the hike and talk from the Visitors Center in Avalon to the Orange Grove Area and back covering 4 miles on flat, paved surfaces. Wear comfortable clothes, and bring water. For ages 10 and up; anyone under age 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Please call 410-750-0674 in advance to register or for more information. This event is Free! Donations welcome.
5/19: Wilderness Survival: Shoots and Ladders - Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area
Eating and sleeping are human essentials, especially out in the wild; would you know what to do in an emergency? Learn knot tying & rope skills, then take a hike to see and learn about native edible plants that can help when you're in a bind. Wear sturdy shoes and bring a water bottle. For ages 5 and up. Meet at Soldiers Delight Visitor Center. Please call 410-461-5005 to sign up or for more information. Cost: $3 per person.
5/19 & 20: Peony Garden Tour - Seneca Creek State Park
Enjoy a visit to the Historic Schwartz Peony Gardens. Take in the colorful sights and wonderful smells the gardens offer while a ranger talks of the fascinating history of the flowers and gives tips for tending your own Peonies. Call the park office (301-924-2127) to make a reservation. Cost is $3/person in state $5/person out of state.