Summer is a great time to get outside and enjoy all of the great things that living in Fulton has to offer. Whether you are an avid hiker, astute bird-watcher, dedicated fitness buff, or simply someone who enjoys a nice wooded path and natural beauty, this region has plenty of amenities that are also senior friendly.
So, if you are looking for a new place to enjoy some much-needed fresh air in the area, here is a list of some of the best parks in the Fulton area to add to your summer to-do list.
Lake Elkhorn Park
6800 Cradlerock Way
Columbia, MD 21046
Lake Elkhorn is a true gem, founded in 1974 with a 37-acre lake that is perfect for fishing, a relaxing boat ride, kayaking, or a scenic walk around its 2-mile-long trail, which encloses its watershed. For the kids, there is a great playground and shaded picnic tables. There are several parking lots around the lake that offer entry to other well-maintained trails, each with plenty of benches and some with exercise equipment along the way.
Riverfront Park
Avondale Street
Laurel, MD 20707
Running along the beautiful Patuxent River, Riverfront Park’s 30.2 acres is a must-see for those who are looking to enjoy beautiful scenery and a touch of history. The park has picnic pavilions, 1.5 miles of paved trails, a playground, picnic tables, and — for those interested in local history — access to the Laurel Museum and historic dam ruins. This park is also a must-see in the fall or just after a winter snowfall!
Hammond Park
10700 Glen Hannah Drive
Laurel, MD 20723
If you are looking for a great place for a picnic, a new tennis facility, or a streamlined trail, put Hammond Park on your list. Hammond Park also has a playground, a baseball field, and a picnic pavilion, as well as plenty of flora and fauna.
Downtown Columbia Lakefront
10221 Wincopin Circle
Columbia, MD 21044
Though the Downtown Columbia Lakefront isn’t technically a park, there is so much to enjoy outside that we could not leave it off our list. Known for its boardwalk, this gem has amazing views of the lake, as well as bridges, shaded benches, and several paths to enjoy depending on how long a walk you want to take. The path is also pet friendly, is close to local shops, and often plays host to special events, including arts festivals or outdoor concerts.
Robinson Nature Center
6692 Cedar Lane
Columbia, MD 21044
Robinson Nature Center is a great mix of outdoor and indoor space for nature lovers of all ages. Set on 18 acres of land near the Middle Patuxent Environmental Area, this Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified facility is known for its educational classes, well-groomed walking trails for all ages, a nice stream, a gift shop, and a variety of nature exhibits, as well as for having an on-site biologist.
Blandair Regional Park
5750 Oakland Mills Road
Columbia, MD 21045
You’re going to need more than one day to enjoy all that Blandair Regional Park has to offer. In fact, some even consider it to be more than a park — it is an entertainment complex combined with amazing sports facilities, all with nature beautifully incorporated into its design. All of the trails are paved for easy use and accessibility with plenty of benches, well-maintained restrooms, and sports fields. This park also has tennis courts, a covered pavilion, several playgrounds, and accessible parking.
Seniors living in the Fulton, Maryland, area certainly have no shortage of beautiful parks and recreation opportunities. With summer in full swing, these local parks, tree-lined trails, and scenic lakes are a great way to get outside, exercise, and spend time with friends and family while enjoying some of Mother Nature’s best work.
