Maryland's Former Battlefield Near Baltimore Is Now A Scenic State Park With An Easy Trail And Historic Charm

There's no shortage of historic destinations in Maryland, given its roots as one of the original 13 colonies founded in the 1600s and its military past. This includes the crucial roles the state and its largest city, Baltimore, played in the War of 1812 between the United States and Great Britain. It was, after all, Baltimore's harbor and flag still standing over Fort McHenry that inspired Francis Scott Key to pen the Star-Spangled Banner. One historic destination is North Point State Battlefield. Part of that war, the battlefield is now a state-run park with historic charm and an easy trail. 

North Point State Battlefield is a nine-acre preserved site that opened in 2015 and is located 8 miles away from Baltimore in Dundalk. The site honors a September 12, 1814 face-off between 4,500 British soldiers and 3,200 U.S. forces in the Battle of North Point for American independence, a landmark moment in the defense of the city. It's the last undeveloped significant site relating to the war, and it includes a walking path that marks its historic past. It's considered a sister property to the larger, nearby North Point State Park, a bayside retreat with historic charm, wetland trails, and fishing. Both are managed by Maryland's Department of Natural Resources. 

Open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset, the former war zone has a 4.5-star rating across more than 100 reviews on Google Reviews, which note it's an unassuming, peaceful spot, leashed dog-friendly, with scenic grassy landscapes and wetlands. Dubbed "a commemorative landscape" on its website, the picturesque setting combined with its historical roots makes for a worthy stop for history buffs and nature lovers while traveling around the Charm City.  

The primary way to explore the site is along the North Point State Battlefield Park Loop, an easy 0.3- mile loop around the site. Portions of the pathway are gravel, while the boardwalk-style walkway allows visitors to wander across protected landscapes, including wetlands. The park's open wildflower garden is a "no-mow" area that protects native flowers and is home to nomadic birds and butterflies. The open space was purposely left that way in homage to what historically took place, including using the trees as cover from opposing forces. Interpretive panels retell the story of American Brigadier General Stricker, who successfully commanded the American forces. "It's a lovely trail that has plaques with interesting facts and historic maps along the entire path," shared one past visitor on Google Reviews. "It really makes you feel like you were a part of the memories that are shared in this park."

Adding to its historic character is Defenders Day, an annual event held in September when volunteers in period costumes participate in battle reenactments. It's part of a larger event taking place at Baltimore's Fort McHenry and is Baltimore's oldest holiday, having taken place since 1815. The multi-day celebration includes live demonstrations, ranger-led programming, music, and honors the writing of the poem that eventually became the national anthem of the United States.

While you're touring Baltimore, you might want to check out the nine secret spots in Baltimore that most tourists miss. For an additional look at historic spots in Maryland, head 76 miles east to Washington Monument State Park, home to an original presidential monument and scenic trail.