State parks bring recreational, educational, and economic benefits to their host communities. Baltimore has never had a state park within its borders. But it has the perfect place for one: Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park (GFLP).

Touching 18 neighborhoods and boasting 1,000 acres of forest, streams, trails, and recreation facilities, GFLP is one of the largest woodland parks in any Northeastern city. 

It offers the unique combination of a diverse ecosystem, splendid bicycle and walking trails, historic sites, and activities for all ages. But the park has fallen on hard times due to neglect of its physical infrastructure and the absence of dedicated staff to lead activities, provide security, and perform routine maintenance. As a state-city partnership park, GFLP can truly be the “Green Jewel of West Baltimore” – both a resource for underserved city communities and a regional destination for all of Central Maryland. With your help, we can make it happen.

Governor Moore signs HB 1358 into law 

As of June 1, 2024, the law has officially taken effect. Read our press release about what this means for our state-city partnership plan and the future of the park.

Why a state-city partnership is right for GFLP!

FOGFLP Executive Director gave a talk at the 2024 Baltimore Herb Fest about the history and future of the park. You can read a transcript of his speech here.

• West Baltimore needs a state park, and a partnership is the right way to do it - February 24, 2024 Baltimore Sun (PDF)
  

Leakin Park has been a Baltimore City park for decades. So why change things now? What will change? And how will we make this happen? We have the answers to your questions about the State-City partnership for Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park.