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Offices and Contacts Baltimore County Parks Park Pride Maryland State Forest and Park Service Baltimore County Golf Courses You Care So Be Aware - Child Safety Links FAQ's

Current Status:

For information regarding weather cancellation policies please see our inclement weather policies web page.

Robert J. Barrett 
Director
410-887-3871
Fax: 410-825-3305
TTY/Deaf 410-887-5319
E-mail: recparks@baltimorecountymd.gov 

About The Department

Established in 1949, the Department of Recreation and Parks is dedicated to providing quality recreational and leisure opportunities to the citizens of Baltimore County. Thousands of recreational programs, including individual and team sports, arts and crafts, social clubs and activities, and special events are provided through a cooperative effort with 45 volunteer Recreation and Parks Councils throughout the County.

Hundreds of Parks, Recreation Centers and Other Facilities

The Department is responsible for acquiring, developing, and maintaining a wide range of parklands and open spaces as well as recreation centers, nature centers and other specialized facilities.

A joint use agreement with the Baltimore County Board of Education and Baltimore County Public Schools also provides for the dual use of class public schools as community recreation centers.

The Board of Recreation and Parks

The function of the Board of Recreation and Parks is to formulate recreation and parks policies for Baltimore County, holding itself responsive to the requested needs of all the county citizens while evolving a fiscal balance of programs, facilities, and park land. The Baltimore County Board of Recreation and Parks meets the second Wednesday of each month, unless otherwise noted. 

Part-Time Job Opportunities

The Department of Recreation and Parks regularly accepts applications for employees to work on a part-time basis, in the local communities, to assist with recreation programs.

Park Pride

Park Pride is an initiative of the Department which emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the care and monitoring of County parks.  Baltimore County has been very fortunate over the years because neighborhoods have taken an active interest in their parks. Communities help the Department by assisting with certain maintenance, suggesting ideas for improvements, talking to children about the importance of parks and open space, and otherwise making sure our parks continue to be an attractive asset to the community.

Hot Weather Reminders

The combination of high temperatures, humidity and poor air quality constitute a threat, especially to certain groups of people: older adults, children, and people with respiratory or other health problems.  Below are some tips to help you and your family get relief from the heat and stay safe.

• Never leave a child or pet in an unattended car.
• Check on elderly or chronically ill family members, friends and neighbors to make sure they are okay.
• Visit a cooling center in Baltimore County or consider visiting family, friends or an air-conditioned public building.
• Stay hydrated with water or fruit juices.
• Keep your home cool by preparing foods that require minimal cooking.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing, a hat and sunglasses when outdoors.
• Use sunscreen and reapply often when spending time in the pool or sweating excessively.
• Limit outdoor activity when the temperatures and humidity are extremely high.
• Make sure you take care of your pets by providing plenty of water and appropriate shelter.
• Take time to prepare or reevaluate your emergency preparedness kit.  Make sure you have enough water to last you at least three days, a flashlight and a battery-powered radio.