ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Starting May 19, 2025, visitors to Greenbrier State Park and Sandy Point State Park must reserve day-use passes online for Memorial Day weekend and all subsequent weekends and holidays through Labor Day. The Maryland Park Service’s new reservation system, accessible at parkdayuse.maryland.gov, aims to reduce overcrowding, ease traffic at park entrances, minimize capacity closures, and ensure visitors have confirmed access before arriving. The system will expand to Point Lookout, Newtowne Neck, and North Point State Parks later this summer.
The reservation system mandates advance bookings for peak times, eliminating same-day drive-up access on weekends and holidays. Visitors can make reservations up to seven days in advance, with options to edit or cancel until 8 a.m. the day before their visit. Day-use fees are paid online at booking using credit, debit, or other digital payment methods. Those with Maryland Annual Park Passes, Golden Age Passes, or free entry eligibility—such as veterans or individuals with disabilities—will have their status verified at park entry. Staff may adjust fees based on the actual number of visitors.
The initiative addresses growing visitation pressures at Maryland’s state parks, which have seen increased traffic and closures during peak seasons. By requiring reservations, the Maryland Park Service seeks to streamline access and enhance visitor experience. Greenbrier and Sandy Point, popular for their recreational offerings, are the first to implement the system, with plans to include additional parks as the summer progresses.
Visitors can find detailed information, including boat launching procedures and frequently asked questions, on the Maryland State Parks website. The website clarifies processes for pass holders and outlines fee structures. For example, park staff may require additional payments if visitor numbers exceed what was reserved, ensuring fair cost distribution.
The reservation system reflects Maryland’s broader efforts to manage its natural resources responsibly. State parks, which attract millions annually, provide critical recreational spaces while supporting local economies. Greenbrier, known for its lake and hiking trails, and Sandy Point, a hub for boating and beach activities, are among the state’s most visited parks. The expansion to Point Lookout, Newtowne Neck, and North Point will further distribute the system’s benefits, addressing similar capacity issues at those locations.
Maryland’s state parks have historically balanced accessibility with conservation. The new system builds on past efforts to manage high-demand periods, such as limiting vehicle entries during peak holidays. By adopting advance reservations, the Maryland Park Service aims to prevent the overcrowding that has occasionally led to turned-away visitors. The online platform also offers flexibility, allowing visitors to plan trips with confidence.
The initiative aligns with trends in park management nationwide, where digital reservation systems have become standard for handling high visitation. Maryland’s approach prioritizes equitable access, with provisions for pass holders and exempt groups. As the system rolls out, the Maryland Park Service will monitor its impact and gather visitor feedback to refine operations, ensuring parks remain welcoming and sustainable for all.
