Benjamin Banneker Park adventures

Benjamin Banneker Park Adventures

Benjamin Banneker Park offers a serene natural retreat in suburban Baltimore County, featuring peaceful woodlands, walking trails, and spaces honoring the legacy of the African American scientist and surveyor Benjamin Banneker.

138
Acres Protected
5
Miles of Trails
50,000 (estimate)
Annual Visitors
1977
Year Established

About Benjamin Banneker Park

 

Benjamin Banneker Park, located in Baltimore County, Maryland, encompasses a mix of forested landscapes, open meadows, and creek valleys. The park honors Benjamin Banneker, an 18th-century African American mathematician, astronomer, and surveyor who played a critical role in the early surveying of the District of Columbia. The park serves not only as a recreational area but also as a historical site that educates visitors about Banneker’s achievements and significance. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking on modestly challenging trails, birdwatching in diverse habitats, and picnicking at designated areas. The park’s well-maintained trails wind through hardwood forests and alongside Rocky Gorge, offering peaceful views and opportunities to connect with nature. As an urban-adjacent green space, it provides accessible outdoor experiences for families, school groups, and nature enthusiasts. Interpretive signs located throughout the park provide historical context and highlight the natural environment. The park also hosts occasional community events and educational programs centered around Banneker’s life and contributions to science and cartography. Its combination of natural beauty and educational value makes Benjamin Banneker Park an important cultural and recreational destination within the Maryland park system.

Highlights

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Rocky Gorge, a serene waterway lined by forested banks

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Interpretive displays detailing Benjamin Banneker’s scientific accomplishments

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Accessible multi-use trails suitable for walking, running, and casual hiking

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Picnic areas set in tranquil natural surroundings ideal for family visits

Notable Natural Features

Benjamin Banneker Historical Marker

An onsite monument providing background on the life and achievements of Benjamin Banneker.

Rocky Gorge Stream

A peaceful creek environment supporting diverse plant and wildlife species.

Forest Trail Network

A system of easy to moderate walking paths that explore forested hillsides and meadow edges.