Reedy Creek Nature Center & Preserve

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    Guide

    Where the Star-Spangled Banner was born: a compact fort with sweeping harbor views and living history. It’s an easy win—flat paths, open lawns, and a visitor film that sets the scene in under 15 minutes.

    Start at the visitor center for your map, then follow the ramp to the east wall for the best harbor vantage. Time your visit for a flag raising or lowering—the ranger talk turns the place into a story you’ll remember.

    For a slower visit, circle the star-shaped ramparts clockwise and watch ships move in and out of the Patapsco.

    FAQ

    What’s new? Updated today
    • Sunset flag lowering 6:30pm (Fri–Sun)
    • Temporary exhibit: War of 1812
    • Harbor shuttle every 20 minutes
    What are the hours? — 9:00–17:00 (daily)

    Hours may vary for holidays and special events; check the official site before you go.

    How much does it cost? — $15 adults · kids free

    Admission covers the fort and visitor center exhibits; special tours may be extra.

    Where do I park? — On-site lot + overflow

    Lots can fill on weekends by mid-day; arrive early or consider rideshare.

    Is it accessible? — Flat paths; accessible restrooms

    Most ramparts have graded access; some historic areas may have uneven surfaces.

    Tips

    • Arrive 30 min before sunset for the lowering ceremony and best light.
    • Wind picks up on the ramparts—bring a light jacket even in summer.
    • Stroller route: enter via visitor center, ramp to east wall loop.
    Add visit

    Reedy Creek Nature Center & Preserve offers a dynamic mix of recreation, history, and wildlife across 927 acres of protected forest and parkland. With over 10 miles of hiking trails winding through diverse ecosystems, visitors can explore wetlands, meadows, and woodlands teeming with local wildlife. The preserve is home to the historic John Robinson Rockhouse ruins, a Revolutionary-era homestead dating back to the 1780s, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

    At the heart of the preserve, the Reedy Creek Nature Center provides hands-on exhibits, live animal displays, and an interactive Habitat Garden certified by the National Wildlife Federation. Each year, it hosts the popular Hummingbird Festival, drawing thousands of visitors eager to witness the tiny birds up close. For younger adventurers, the Nature Explorer Zone—designed by North Carolina State University and the Arbor Day Foundation—features natural play elements like stump jumps, log balancing, and fort-building in a fully immersive woodland setting.

    Adjacent to the preserve, Reedy Creek Park spans 125 acres and offers a variety of recreational amenities, including a disc golf course, sports fields, a fishing pier, a dog park, and even a cricket pitch. Whether you’re hiking through history, spotting wildlife, or enjoying the vast outdoor playground, Reedy Creek is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

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