Downs Memorial Park

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Downs Memorial Park is a 236-acre park located in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The park is situated on the Chesapeake Bay and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. There are several good reasons to visit Downs Memorial Park, including its beautiful scenery, recreational activities, and historical significance.

One of the main points of interest at Downs Memorial Park is the Chesapeake Bay beach, which offers visitors the chance to swim, fish, and relax on the sandy beach. There is also a fishing pier, boat launching ramps, and picnic areas available for visitors to use. In addition, there are several miles of trails for hiking and biking, as well as a playground and a dog park.

One interesting fact about Downs Memorial Park is that it was originally founded as a memorial to those who lost their lives in World War II. The park was named after John W. Downs, a local resident who was killed in action during the war. Today, the park serves as a tribute to all veterans who have served their country.

The best time of year to visit Downs Memorial Park is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the Chesapeake Bay beach is open for swimming. However, the park is open year-round and offers activities for visitors during all seasons.

Overall, Downs Memorial Park is a beautiful and historic destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for outdoor recreation, historical significance, or simply a place to relax and enjoy the scenery, Downs Memorial Park is definitely worth a visit.

       

Weather Forecast

Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
View more

Featured Parks