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VISIT US

What awaits you? 

The nature center and campus have lots of charm. It is a humble yet cozy building and is often described as having "log cabin vibes." The building is a shared space that consists of areas for the public - including a restroom, two classrooms used for programming, and staff offices. If you stop by as a visitor, here is what you can expect: 

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IN THE BUILDING

  • An animal exhibit hall near the front lobby - friendly turtles, snakes, and more!

  • Backpacks, binoculars, and other equipment are available to check out with an ID

  • Maps and brochures are available in the lobby - ask a friendly naturalist for trail recommendations!

  • A large lodge area, complete with 

    • a library and seating area​

    • a kid's corner, with toys and activities

    • a Bug Zoo 

    • animal exhibits and artifact collection​

ON THE GROUNDS​

  • An aviary that houses our hawks, turkey vulture, owl, and friendly male turkey ​

  • A fire circle and several picnic tables 

  • Sitting gazebos

  • A sculpture garden 

  • An outdoor classroom with a mud kitchen for mudpie lovers!

ON THE TRAILS

There are many natural surface trails that lead from CMNC into the park. There is also a 15-mile multi-use trail. The park is over 1200 acres with several special spaces. There is a variety of plants, animals, and landscapes to enjoy, including:

  • Ridges and hills

  • A Sacred Magnolia Grove - gorgeous when in bloom! (usually early-mid April)

  • A stone labyrinth  

  • Winans Meadow - this is where the historic water wheel is located

  • Dead Run - full of crayfish in summer!

  • A small wetland area with a boardwalk - keep an eye out for skunk cabbage!

  • Rolling Forests - it can be 10 degrees cooler under the canopy. 

  • Several old historical foundations, including a home, root cellar, fort wall, and more. 

  • The Crimea Estate and Orianda House

FOR YOUR SAFETY WE ASK THAT YOU:

  • Be considerate of how you move through the forest. Leave footprints. Take memories. 

  • Beware of poison ivy. 

  • Check yourself for ticks after hiking. 

  • Dogs must be on a leash! Please clean up after your pet.

  • Our surface paths are not multi-use. Please refrain from biking or using motor bikes on these trails. 

  • ​Refrain from the use of drones

  • No hunting or trapping! 

  • Enjoy snacks/meals in the designated picnic areas, and please take your trash. 

  • Fires are only permitted in designated fire pits and grill areas

  • Do not smoke.

 

Carrie Murray Nature Center

1901 Ridgetop Road, Baltimore, MD 21207

Nature Center Hours
Monday - Saturday: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Monthly Second Sundays (May-Nov): 8:30am - 4:30p

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Carrie Murray Nature Center is operated by Baltimore City Recreation and Parks (BCRP)
 

©2025 by Carrie Murray Nature Center.

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