Gunpowder Falls State Park Parking-Pawpaws - Kingsville, MD
Gunpowder Falls State Park Parking-Pawpaws in Kingsville, Maryland
Nestled in the scenic woods near Belair Rd, Gunpowder Falls State Park Parking-Pawpaws offers a spacious and pet-friendly destination for outdoor enthusiasts and dog lovers alike. The natural trails are open year-round and feature gentle terrain at first, with some more challenging, steeper sections later on—perfect for hiking, jogging, dog-friendly walks, or trail running. With its tranquil riverside views, seasonal beauty, and abundant wildlife such as deer, this park offers a peaceful escape just minutes from the bustle of Kingsville.
While there isn’t a dedicated fenced dog area, the park is well-suited for owners seeking pet-friendly trails and outdoor adventures. Dogs can enjoy the shallow water spots along the river, but caution is advised near deeper, rocky areas. Parking is available on Belair Rd, although it can fill up quickly during peak weekend hours. This park is ideal for families, avid hikers, and anyone looking for a dog-friendly day trip in Maryland’s lush outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is the best place to park? There is a parking area on Belair Rd, but it can become limited during busy hours. Arriving early or later in the day is recommended.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park offers a variety of hiking and walking trails suitable for both you and your dog.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? Dogs can access shallow areas of the river to swim, but deeper, rockier sections may not be suitable for all pets.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? The park tends to be less crowded, even on Saturdays, but parking can be limited during peak times.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, the trails are accessible and enjoyable in all seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter.
- Are there picnics or BBQs allowed? Many visitors set up picnics in clearings along the river and trails.
Reviews
The trails are pretty easy to walk or run on. The water is shallow and good for young kids. Parts of the water become deeper and may not be advisable for your dog, especially where it is very rocky. There is limited parking here, so you better go very early or later after 3 or 4. Many people set up picnics and outdoor day adventures in the clear spots between the trees along the water, so you may walk awhile before you find a little place to relax. It is so peaceful once you are inside the park. It is hard to believe mini strips, gas stations, and restaurants are five to 10 minutes away. It is a great place to walk, run or hike or just escape the city for awhile and unwind.
Other than people using the park trails as their animals toilet, it’s a great park with nice trails.
Did not know swimming could be done here. Nice hiking trails. Decent terrain to walk. Great for all family and workout.
We absolutely love this trail in spring, summer, fall and winter. We went with our friends to hike a 7.2 mile trail. It was beautiful out. We even saw deer on the trail. There were not a lot of people, especially for a Saturday. Highly recommend this trail for any nature lover and avid hiker.
Plenty of parking. Free entry. The trails are lovely. Not much elevation at first but there are short stints of steep creep in the latter half. The lost pond trail loops around but the return back is packed with vines and thorns so bring a jacket and some pants or a knife to cut them down. The view from the river is as tranquil as it gets especially when it’s empty. Lovely place to go jogging, hiking, or trail running.