Lake Roland Nature Center Now Open

BALTIMORE, MD — Baltimore County cut the ribbon recently at the Lake Roland Nature Center, a $1.4 million project that will allow for year-round nature programming at Lake Roland Park.

Encompassing 2,585 square feet, the nature center overlooks the Lake Roland Dam, with glass doors leading to a scenic deck. It can accommodate those with physical challenges and offers audio-visual capabilities.

Lake Roland Park, formerly known as Robert E. Lee Park, was run by Baltimore City until 2009.

Once it was put under Baltimore County's management, county officials say that the park's attendance has increased from 42,000 to 310,000 annual visitors.

The nature center was the latest in a series of improvements that have enhanced the park's appeal. The county strengthened the lake's shoreline, opened the Paw Point Dog Park, installed a nature-themed playground and pavilion and replaced the entry bridge.

“We took this historic gem of a park, which was truly a diamond in the rough, and restored its luster,” County Executive Kevin Kamenetz said in a statement. "And this new nature center greatly expands everyone’s ability to enjoy all four seasons at the park."

The nature center was funded by a variety of sources:

• $535,000 from Program Open Space
• $340,000 from nature council fundraising
• $325,000 in county funding
• $200,000 in capital grants from the state

Programming at Lake Roland is coordinated by volunteers, who lead scouts, Baltimore City youths, senior groups, astronomy enthusiasts and Mount Washington Pediatric Hospital patients, among others.

Before the nature center, programs at the park were limited to predominantly outdoor activities.

“Lake Roland is a magnificent park and this new nature center is a wonderful addition that offers the opportunity for year-round access and expanded nature programming,” Council Chair Vicki Almond said.

Photo Credit: Baltimore County Government.

See Also:

• Lake Roland Nature Center Breaks Ground
• Baltimore County Seeks to Rename Robert E. Lee Park
• City Takes Step Toward Robert E. Lee Park Name Change