COCKEYSVILLE, MD—The Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks on Tuesday released the final Oregon Ridge Master Plan (ORMP), a long-term aspirational roadmap that outlines a community-driven vision to direct investment of existing and future resources at Oregon Ridge Park (ORP) in Northern Baltimore County.

Encompassing over 1,000 acres in the Cockeysville area, ORP offers an array of amenities, including an outdoor amphitheater, visitors’ lodge, nature center, accessible playground, pavilions and an extensive network of trails.

“Generations of families have enjoyed the incredible amenities and diverse recreational opportunities Oregon Ridge Park offers, and a strong, forward-thinking plan coupled with County capital commitments for its future is critical,” said Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski. “This robust plan – designed in partnership with community stakeholders and park enthusiasts – sets forth a vision for the future that all residents will enjoy and be proud of for years to come.”

The final Oregon Ridge Park Master Plan released on Tuesday outlines substantial enhancements designed to improve accessibility and better cater to the community’s needs, including:

• Preservation of natural resources management, safeguarding of forest land, rare plants, and water resources.
• Enhancements to accessibility to serve residents of all abilities.
• Establishment of a cultural hub for arts programming, encompassing activities, public art, and performances.
• Improvements in educational programming and facilities to enhance the Oregon Ridge Nature Center’s service to Baltimore County residents.
• Facility upgrades, including enhanced signage, parking access and updates to utilities, restrooms and buildings to enhance park users’ experiences.
• Adaptations to recreational activities and facilities to align with modern recreational needs.
• A focus on trail improvements to ensure safer and more efficient pathways for park visitors, fostering an enhanced outdoor experience.

“Oregon Ridge Park holds a special place in the hearts of the community,” said Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks Director Bob Smith. “These long-awaited updates highlight Baltimore County’s unwavering commitment to preserving its natural charm while enhancing facilities for all park visitors for generations to come.”

The ORMP is a comprehensive initiative aimed at elevating the visitor experience and ensuring that ORP remains a cherished destination for the community. This reflection establishes a planning framework that assures the Department of Recreation and Parks that the ORPMP recommendations are responsive to County policy and reflect extensive public engagement and research.

“The Oregon Ridge Nature Center Council is thrilled with the Master Plan. Lardner/Klein has written an inspiring proposal that is in line with the desires of the park community,” said Ralph Brown, President of Oregon Ridge Nature Center Council. “Our council is looking forward to working alongside the County in bringing it to fruition.”

“Oregon Ridge is a Baltimore County treasure and I’m confident that this master plan will stay true to the park’s original mission, and will ensure that this park continues to serve our communities for generations to come,” said Baltimore County Councilman Wade Kach. “I look forward to continuing to work together with County Executive Olszewski to invest in our parks and green space and protect our environment for all.”

Recreation and Parks Announces Selection of Trails Consultant to Begin Implementing Master Plan Improvements at Oregon Ridge

Department of Recreation and Parks on Tuesday also announced the selection of Lardner/Klein Landscape Architects as a proposed trails consultant who will be tasked with leading trail design efforts for Oregon Ridge Park. This pivotal milestone will ensure Baltimore County can quickly begin implementing the initial components of today’s newly-released Oregon Ridge Park Master Plan.

Following discussions with the Oregon Ridge Nature Council, temporary modifications to the Orange Trail are set to begin this month. This initiative will restore access to this beloved section of the trail. Additionally, future strategies for the Orange Trail will be incorporated into the comprehensive Trails Plan Project.

The final Oregon Ridge Master Plan report is available here.

Photo by Sebwite, Public Domain, Wikimedia Commons