Patapsco Valley State Park
ALERTS

Sediment Temporarily Impacts Fishing Below Bloede Dam

Ellicott City, Md. (March 30, 2012) - Since the removal of Simkins Dam, sediment has made its way down the Patapsco River and is now filling deeper holes and pools below Bloede Dam. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds recreational anglers that this is only temporary. The occurrence is an expected and natural process that was accounted for during initial planning.

• Read the DNR press release regarding temporary sediment impacts to fishing below Bloede Dam.
• Patapsco River Restoration Update

WARNING: Paddlers & Anglers

Recent storms have scoured out areas of the Patapsco River at the old Union Dam site leaving exposed concrete and rebar, creating hazardous conditions. Park staff has clearly marked the hazards and will work to remove them as soon as possible. The Patapsco River and river bank remain closed through this construction area until further notice.

Secure Your Valuables

Secure your vehicle before you hit the trails at Patapsco Valley State Park. Valuable items left in plain sight in your vehicle are an invitation for theft. Leave your valuables at home, secure them on your person, or in secure, non-visable areas of your vehicle, such as your trunk.

Rt. 40 Bridge crossing the Patapsco River under construction from
Spring 2011 to 2013

This construction affects traffic for the entrance to the Hollofield Area, including Day-Use, Campgrounds, Park Headquarters, and the Central Region Office. During this construction you may experience single lane traffic near the park entrance in both the eastbound and westbound directions. In addition park guests visiting the Hollofield area will not have access to the river area below the Bridge.

The river and river-bank are closed to all use from the CSX tunnel north of the Bridge to the deck at the end of the Union Dam trail which is south of the Bridge, due to potentially hazardous conditions. Paddlers traveling down stream should pull-out at Hollofield Station (Old Frederick Road crosses the Patapsco River at this point.) You will not be able to portage through the construction site.

Park visitors are cautioned to stay out of the construction area, as it is a No Trespassing site. For additional information on the status of the construction project you may visit: www.facebook.com/MDSHAUS40PATAPSCOBRIDGE or visit the project page at www.Roads.Maryland.Gov. You may also call 1-866-998-0367 for construction updates.

Special Events

Any groups requiring more than two facility rentals for one event (campsites, shelters, or any combination, thereof) must contact the park directly to make these arrangements. This will assure that park management will be able to assist you in making your event a success. Note: This service may be subject to a $25 Special Event Fee. Contact the Park Headquarters at 410-461-5005.

Inflatable Play Equipment Notice

Inflatable play equipment and trampolines are prohibited on site without a permit. This permit must be obtained in advance of your event. Guests wishing to obtain a permit should contact the park office.( 410-461-5005) Only Shelters areas with adequate space will be issued permits. Guests wishing to obtain a permit must also have a certificate of liability from their insurance company or the vendor’s insurance company which indemnifies the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Due to the need for water conservation portable swimming pools and dunk tanks are not allowed in the park.