Elkridge in Howard County, Maryland — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Besley Demonstration Campsite
Photographed By F. Robby, July 1, 2008
1. Besley Demonstration Campsite Marker
Inscription.
Besley Demonstration Campsite. . Recreational camping on Maryland's public lands began near this spot about 1916. Maryland's first state forester, Fred W. Besley, encouraged the public to participate in outdoor recreation on state forest lands in an effort to foster an appreciation for forest conservation, and to gain public support for acquiring more forest and park lands. To set an example, Besley and his family camped at the Cascade Falls area of Patapsco State Forest Reserve during the summer months. This site proved an attractive venue for Baltimore City residents, launching the tradition of recreational camping on state forest and park lands.
Recreational camping on Maryland's public lands began near this spot about 1916. Maryland's first state forester, Fred W. Besley, encouraged the public to participate in outdoor recreation on state forest lands in an effort to foster an appreciation for forest conservation, and to gain public support for acquiring more forest and park lands. To set an example, Besley and his family camped at the Cascade Falls area of Patapsco State Forest Reserve during the summer months. This site proved an attractive venue for Baltimore City residents, launching the tradition of recreational camping on state forest and park lands.
Erected 2006 by Maryland Forestry and Parks Centennial.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Horticulture & Forestry. A significant historical year for this entry is 1916.
Location. 39° 14.458′ N, 76° 45.009′ W. Marker is in Elkridge, Maryland, in Howard County. Marker can be reached from the intersection of Washington Boulevard (U.S. 1) and South Street. Marker is within the Patapsco Valley State Park - Orange Grove area, on the southern side of the Patapsco River, about 3 miles from the park entrance, and across the road from the Swinging Bridge. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Elkridge MD 21075, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within
Not terribly impressive, but this is central Maryland! The falls near which Besley camped are just under a mile from the trail head. The trail is steep at first but then levels off for most of the walk.
Credits. This page was last revised on November 22, 2019. It was originally submitted on July 3, 2008, by F. Robby of Baltimore, Maryland. This page has been viewed 1,072 times since then and 6 times this year. Photos:1, 2, 3. submitted on July 3, 2008, by F. Robby of Baltimore, Maryland.
