Nestle deep within the bucolic reaches of Middle River, Maryland sits a lush, hidden gem that nature lovers of all ages can rightfully take to year-round. I’m talking about Marshy Point Nature Center and all of its surrounding land, situated along the upper Chesapeake’s Saltpeter and Dundee Creek tributaries to the Gunpowder River.
Despite having opened to the public more than two decades ago, Marshy Point Nature Center remains one of Baltimore County’s best-kept secrets. Its location is unique in that it is close enough to Essex, Dundalk, and other more urban locales, yet it’s situated off the beaten path, so to speak, in an almost secretive sanctuary-like natural oasis.
The 3,000 acres comprising Marshy Point Nature Center and its pristine pathways have a long and storied history of fishing and other wildlife pursuits throughout the region. The land was acquired by Baltimore County back in 1982 from the Weiskittel and Zielinski families who owned it previously. Groundbreaking on the center began in 1998, and by May 1, 2000, Marshy Point Nature Center made its official debut to the public.
Visitors to Marshy Point get to experience an impressive range of exhibits located both directly inside the center as well as all around the premises. The over 50 different live native wildlife exhibits displayed here are among the center’s most popular viewing pleasures. All of the ambassador animals are kept in captivity for specific reasons. Some were rescued and rehabilitated from injuries or illness and would otherwise not survive on their own if reintroduced back into the wild. Others are not permitted to be released due to federal rules and regulations. The lineup of featured creatures you can see here includes various snake species, birds, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, turtles and tortoises, and even a very special barred owl and live swimming duck display.
The Chesapeake Connections section of the center houses fish and other aquatic callouts, including an interactive map and a three-sectioned tank where you can see Maryland’s one and only state turtle—the Diamondback Terrapin.
There’s also a unique Insect Corner to get a bug’s perspective of life throughout the Chesapeake region. The Habitat Exploration area proudly displays an interactive wall showcasing animal and plant life throughout the surrounding woodlands and wetlands.
Other onsite areas to check out are the Reefs of the Chesapeake display, Sounds of the Marsh “talking tree” with buttons, Nature Library, Kid’s Corner, and more. The Bird Corner and Osprey Nest Cam section is another absolute must-do.
If you venture outside of the center, there are many other additional features to enjoy. This includes a couple of other outdoor exhibits, like the resident vulture, the Chesapeake Nature Discovery Play Space (featuring a 3/4 scale skipjack, man-made bald eagle nest, and Rock Fish replica), and eight miles of designated hiking trails with piers and viewing decks along the way.
There are also various paddle trails for kayaking and canoeing. Read more about hiking and paddling possibilities at Marshy Point here.
While anyone may experience what Marshy Point has to offer on their own, it’s worth noting that the center presents various ongoing programs and events throughout the year that cater to all ages and interests. These encompass everything from audiovisual presentations by natural resource professionals and naturalists to regularly occurring bird walks around the grounds, Monday Pre-K drop-ins to organized hikes and boating excursions. They also have various summer camp opportunities for children. Click here to read more about those.
In addition to providing ongoing programs, Marshy Point Nature Center also plays host to several noted annual celebrations. Yesterday, for instance, was a time of rejoicing with the return of their highly popular Spring Festival. Other seasonal special events that garner attention include their famed Fall Festival (every mid-Autumn), Holiday Party (every first Saturday in December), Maple Sugar Time (every February), and their end-of-summer MPNCC Members Fish Fry. Click here to access the programs and special events calendar link.
Marshy Point Nature Center is operated dually by the Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks and the Marshy Point Nature Center Council—a 501(c)(3) entirely volunteer nonprofit. They are committed to fostering an appreciation for nature, increasing public awareness about environmental issues, and inspiring individuals to be more proactive in preservation efforts that make for a healthier planet.
The Nature Center is open daily between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. (but closes for County-observed holidays) and the park grounds are open from dawn to dusk. While admission is always free, your generous support is always welcome. Click here to find out about the many ways that you can contribute.
Marshy Point Nature Center is located at 7130 Marshy Point Road, Middle River, MD 21220. Learn more by visiting their website at www.marshypoint.org.