South Forestville Park

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Parks

Maryland

Nearby: Douglas Patterson Park Suitland Bog Conservation Area

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

South Forestville Park, located in the state of Maryland, offers visitors plenty of reasons to explore its natural beauty and recreational activities.

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Summary

Nestled in Prince George's County, this park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers.

One of the main reasons to visit South Forestville Park is its sprawling green space and diverse wildlife. With over 100 acres of land, this park provides ample opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and wildlife observation. Its serene atmosphere and well-maintained trails make it an ideal spot for a peaceful escape from the city.

Upon visiting South Forestville Park, visitors can explore various points of interest. The park features a large playground area, making it an excellent destination for families with children. Additionally, a lake located within the park allows for fishing and boating activities, perfect for those seeking a serene outdoor experience. The park also offers picnic areas equipped with grills, providing a great opportunity to enjoy a family outing or a gathering with friends.

Interesting facts about South Forestville Park include its history as the former site of the Forestville Amusement Park, which operated from 1955 to 1978. The amusement park was a popular attraction back in its heyday, offering roller coasters, a carousel, and live entertainment. Today, remnants of the amusement park can still be found within the park, adding a touch of nostalgia to the area.

The best time to visit South Forestville Park is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. The park's lush greenery and blooming flowers make these seasons particularly picturesque. It's worth noting that the park can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so visiting on weekdays may offer a more tranquil experience.

To ensure accuracy, it is always recommended to verify information across multiple independent sources. Local tourism websites, official park websites, and reputable travel guides can provide further details and updated information on South Forestville Park in Maryland.

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SOUTH FORESTVILLE PARK

Parks • Parks • Recreation

December 5, 2025

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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.

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