Upton Read Park

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upton Read Park is a charming destination nestled in the state of Maryland that offers visitors a variety of reasons to explore its natural beauty.


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Summary

Located in Cecil County, this park is known for its picturesque landscapes, recreational activities, and historical significance.

One of the key attractions of Upton Read Park is its serene and scenic surroundings. The park encompasses nearly 600 acres and features lush green meadows, dense forests, and beautiful bodies of water. This makes it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, bird watchers, and those seeking tranquility.

For history enthusiasts, Upton Read Park offers an intriguing glimpse into the past. The park is home to the historic Mount Harmon Plantation, which dates back to the late 17th century. Visitors can explore the plantation house, gardens, and other outbuildings, gaining insight into the life of early settlers and the region's agricultural heritage.

Moreover, Upton Read Park provides numerous recreational activities. There are well-maintained hiking trails that wind through the park, offering stunning vistas at different vantage points. Additionally, the park provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking in the nearby Bohemia River. Picnic areas and playgrounds are also available, making it a great spot for families and group gatherings.

Interesting facts about Upton Read Park include its status as a designated wildlife sanctuary. It is home to various species of animals, including deer, foxes, squirrels, and a wide array of bird species. The park's dedication to preserving and protecting the natural environment is evident through its educational programs and initiatives, such as nature walks and birdwatching events.

The best time of year to visit Upton Read Park is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild and pleasant. Springtime brings blooming wildflowers and vibrant foliage, while autumn showcases a stunning display of colorful leaves. However, each season offers its own unique charm, and the park is open year-round, allowing visitors to experience its splendor throughout the year.

To ensure the accuracy of the information provided, it is recommended to verify the details about Upton Read Park across multiple independent sources such as official park websites, local tourism boards, and reputable travel guides.

       

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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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