Susquehanna State Park (Maryland) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Susquehanna State Park |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Lua error in Module:Location_map at line 420: attempt to index field 'wikibase' (a nil value). | |
| Location | Cecil and Harford counties, Maryland,United States |
| Nearest city | Havre de Grace, Maryland |
| Area | 2,753 acres (1,114 ha) |
| Elevation | 26 ft (7.9 m) |
| Established | 1960 |
| Administered by | Maryland Department of Natural Resources |
| Designation | Maryland state park |
Susquehanna State Park is a super fun place for outdoor adventures! It's a public park located right next to the Susquehanna River in Maryland. You can find it north of the city of Havre de Grace, Maryland.
The park's main part is on the west side of the river. But it also includes land on the river islands and the east bank. This park is a great spot for fishing, boating, and camping. It also has many trails for hiking and even horseback riding. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources manages this park. It works together with Rocks State Park and Palmer State Park.
Park History
Susquehanna State Park started thanks to a generous gift. In 1958, J. Gilman D’Arcy Paul, who used to lead the Baltimore Museum of Art, offered to give 300 acres of land to the state.
The state of Maryland began buying more land for the park in 1960. This helped create the large park we enjoy today.
What to See at the Park
Susquehanna State Park is not just about nature. It also has a special area called the Rock Run Historical Area. Here, you can step back in time and see some really old buildings and structures.
Rock Run Historical Area
This part of the park shows what life was like long ago. It has several interesting historical spots to explore.
Rock Run Grist Mill
You can visit the Rock Run Grist Mill. A grist mill is a place where grain was ground into flour. It was a very important building for communities in the past.
Carter-Archer Mansion
The 1804 Carter-Archer Mansion is another cool spot. This old house was once the home of John Archer. He was the owner of the grist mill.
Susquehanna and Tidewater Canal
You can also see parts of the old Susquehanna and Tidewater Canal. Canals were like man-made rivers. They helped boats move goods and people a long time ago.
Jersey Toll House
The park has a restored Jersey Toll House. This is where people used to pay fees to cross the historic Port Deposit Bridge. It's like a very old toll booth!
Steppingstone Museum
Inside the park, you'll also find the privately run Steppingstone Museum. This museum is all about the old ways of life in Harford County. It shows how people made things and worked with their hands from the 1880s to the 1920s. You can see demonstrations of old crafts and arts.
Fun Things to Do
Susquehanna State Park offers many exciting activities for visitors. There are trails, water sports, and places to relax.
Hiking and Riding Trails
The park has about 15 miles of trails for you to explore. These trails are perfect for hiking or even horseback riding.
Susquehanna Ridge Trail
The Susquehanna Ridge Trail is about 3 miles long. It gives you amazing views of the river valley. It's a great way to see the park's beauty.
Other Trails
Other trails include the Land of Promise, which is about 1.6 miles long. There's also the Farm Road Trail, which stretches for 2 miles. Many other named trails are waiting for you to discover them.
Lower Susquehanna Greenways Trail
The Lower Susquehanna Greenways Trail starts right here at the park. It follows the river north all the way to the Conowingo Dam. This trail is also part of the Mason-Dixon Trail.
Boating and Fishing
The Susquehanna River is a great place for water activities. You can go boating on the river. It's also a popular spot for fishing.
Camping and Picnics
If you love spending time outdoors, the park has campgrounds. You can pitch a tent and sleep under the stars. There are also picnic areas. These are perfect for enjoying a meal with family and friends.
Images for kids
-
A beautiful waterfall in Susquehanna State Park.
