Imagine standing where the Patapsco River meets the Chesapeake Bay. This is Fort Smallwood Park. It offers a blend of recreation and natural beauty.
Fort Smallwood Park spans 90 acres on a peninsula. This park has a rich history. It was once a military installation from 1890 to 1927. It defended Baltimore Harbor. After its military use, it became a public park in 1928. Baltimore City managed the park until 2006. Anne Arundel County then took over.
The park is named for Major General William Smallwood. He led the Maryland Line during the Revolutionary War. He later became Maryland’s fourth governor.
The park features Battery Hartshorne. It was named for Captain Benjamin M. Hartshorne Jr. He died in the Philippine-American War. Two six-inch disappearing carriage guns were mounted here from 1900 to 1927.
Today Fort Smallwood Park offers many activities. You can fish from the 380-foot Bill Burton Fishing Pier. Hurricane Isabel destroyed the previous pier in 2003. The current pier was dedicated in 2009. The pier provides a view of the Mittal Steel Company plant. It was formerly owned by Bethlehem Steel.
Birdwatchers will find much to enjoy. Fort Smallwood Park is an Important Bird Area. Over 270 bird species have been reported here. The park hosts a spring hawk watch each year. It starts March 1 and runs through early June. Volunteers staff the hawk watch.
In the winter look for Canvasbacks and Long-tailed Ducks. Spring brings warblers and terns. Summer offers egrets and herons. Year-round you might see Canada Geese. Rarities include Golden Eagles.
Fort Smallwood Park also has a playground for children. There are walking trails and a swimming beach. Picnic areas are available. You can launch canoes and kayaks. A snack stand is open for refreshments. The park hosts the Anne Arundel County Big Sit each October.
The park is open from 5:30 AM to dusk. There is a daily fee. Annual and senior citizen passes are available. Pets are allowed on a leash. However they are not allowed on the beaches.
Fort Smallwood Park is more than just a park. It’s a place where history and nature meet. A place where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of the Chesapeake Bay.