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.

Help us keep the momentum growing 

Add your name to our official statement of support for House Bill 1358 that FOGFLP is submitting to the House Environment & Transportation Committee next week .

Sign here to show your support

• 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. 

How YOU can help turn the dream of a state-city park into a reality

Baltimore is one of only two jurisdictions in Maryland that doesn’t have a state park! Let our leaders know that the Department of Natural Resources needs to invest in Baltimore, just as it has in the rest of the state. Sample messages and email addresses for the relevant state and local officials can be found here

Help FOGFLP as we take our advocacy for the park from the trails to City Hall to the State House and beyond! Your tax-deductible gift makes everything we do possible. Donate now