Highlight • Rest Area
Kinder Farm Park
Road cycling
5.0
(1)
Kinder Farm Park is a sprawling 288-acre public park nestled in Millersville, Anne Arundel County, Maryland, offering a unique blend of natural recreation and rich agricultural history. Situated approximately 35 meters above sea level, this expansive green space serves as a vital open area amidst the residential neighborhoods of northern Anne Arundel County. It's a destination where visitors can connect with nature, explore historical exhibits, and experience a working farm environment.
What truly captivates visitors to Kinder Farm Park is its distinctive combination of educational and recreational opportunities. Many particularly appreciate the chance to observe farm animals, from cows and pigs to chickens and goats, providing a glimpse into Anne Arundel County's agricultural heritage. The large, farm-themed playground is a consistent highlight for families, ensuring children of all ages have an engaging and fun experience.
Before heading out, it's good to know that Kinder Farm Park is open year-round from 7:00 a.m. to dusk, with exceptions only for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. The park is easily accessible at 1001 Kinder Farm Park Road, Millersville, MD 21108, and offers ample parking. While exploring the working farm, remember that visitors are encouraged to observe the animals but not to pet or feed them, ensuring their well-being.
The park offers a wide array of activities suitable for all seasons, though spring is especially popular for seeing baby animals on the farm. Enthusiasts can enjoy walking, cycling, and bird watching along the 2.4-mile paved perimeter trail or venture onto several miles of natural trails. Other popular pursuits include disc golf, fishing, horse riding on designated trails, and picnicking at the numerous tables and grills available throughout the park.
Visitors often recount the joy of seeing the diverse farm animals, especially the new arrivals in springtime, which adds a lively dimension to the park experience. The meticulously restored Kinder family farmhouse, dating back to 1925, and the Visitor Center with its fascinating farming artifacts from the 1930s, offer a compelling journey into the past. Birdwatchers also find delight in spotting some of the over 195 species reported within the park's varied habitats.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll, an invigorating bike ride, or a family outing, Kinder Farm Park provides a wealth of options. You can discover various walking routes, cycling paths, and even trails suitable for trail running. To make the most of your visit and explore the diverse offerings, use komoot to plan your adventure and find the perfect route for your preferred activity.
Tips
May 24, 2025
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Kinder Farm Park
1
riders
35.2km
01:30
290m
290m
The Odenton to Kinder Farm Park via Odenton Road Bike Path offers a delightful road cycling experience, covering 21.9 miles (35.2 km) with an easy difficulty rating and just 953 feet (291 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this ride in about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The route takes you through varied landscapes, from the wooded areas surrounding Odenton to the open fields and ponds of Kinder Farm Park, where you might even spot farm animals. It's a smooth, well-paved journey perfect for a relaxed outing.
Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail is generally accessible and well-maintained. While specific parking at the Odenton start isn't detailed, Kinder Farm Park, your destination, provides plenty of parking and facilities. This route is suitable for cyclists of all fitness levels, with gentle inclines rather than challenging climbs. Consider visiting in spring or fall for the most pleasant weather conditions.
This trail is notable for its connectivity, utilizing the Odenton Road Bike Path to link larger regional trails like the Washington, Baltimore and Annapolis (WB&A) Trail. Kinder Farm Park itself is a sprawling 288-acre county park that preserves the agricultural legacy of the Kinder family farm, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical interest. It's a great option for a family-friendly ride or a leisurely exploration of Anne Arundel County's green spaces.
4.8
(9)
283
riders
82.4km
03:44
400m
400m
The Baltimore & Annapolis Trail – BWI Trail loop from Annapolis offers a unique road cycling experience, blending suburban charm with airport-side views. You'll pedal through serene wooded sections and past the educational Planet Walk on the B&A Trail, then transition to the BWI Trail where you can spot planes from observation areas and enjoy stretches of green space and even a horse farm. This moderate 49.4-mile (79.5 km) route, with 1226 feet (374 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 3 hours and 37 minutes, providing a good workout for cyclists who enjoy varied scenery.
To make the most of your ride, plan to start early, especially on weekends, as these trails can get quite busy. Parking is available in Annapolis, and the BWI Trail also offers public transport access via the BWI Rail Station. You'll find convenient amenities like restrooms and picnic areas at the Ranger Station in Severna Park and at Andover Park, with plenty of spots to refuel in towns along the way.
This combined loop is notable for being part of the East Coast Greenway and the American Discovery Trail, highlighting its significance in national trail networks. The B&A Trail also features an "alphabet of history" with markers detailing local heritage, while the BWI Trail is unique for fully encircling an international airport. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a moderate road cycling challenge with interesting historical and modern features.
4.7
(7)
196
riders
The Baltimore & Annapolis Trail – Tom Dixon Observation Area loop from Saint Denis offers a diverse road cycling adventure, blending the smooth, paved surface of a former rail line with suburban stretches and unique viewpoints. You will pedal through quiet wooded areas and residential neighborhoods, eventually reaching the Tom Dixon Observation Area where you can watch planes at BWI Airport. This route provides a good mix of scenery, from natural settings to historical markers, making it more engaging than a simple out-and-back.
For planning your ride, you will find convenient parking at locations like the Earleigh Heights Ranger Station or directly at the Tom Dixon Observation Area, both equipped with restrooms and bike racks. This moderate 46.2-mile (74.3 km) loop, with 1178 feet (359 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 3 hours and 22 minutes. It is best suited for cyclists with good fitness who are comfortable with longer distances and some rolling terrain.
This trail is notable for its history as a rail-to-trail conversion, preserving a piece of the old Baltimore & Annapolis Railroad. It is also a significant part of both the East Coast Greenway and the American Discovery Trail, connecting you to a larger network of routes. Along the way, you can explore historical markers and even a "Planet Walk" near Harundale Mall, adding an educational twist to your ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation 40 m
Weather
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Today
Friday 12 June
37°C
22°C
89 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the operating hours for Kinder Farm Park, and are there any exceptions?
Kinder Farm Park is generally open year-round from 7:00 a.m. to dusk. However, it is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Are dogs allowed at Kinder Farm Park, and are there specific dog-friendly trails?
Yes, Kinder Farm Park is dog-friendly. Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.
What types of trails are available at Kinder Farm Park, and what is their difficulty?
The park features a 2.4-mile (or 2.8-mile according to some sources) paved perimeter trail, which is generally flat and suitable for walking, biking, and strollers. Additionally, there are several miles of natural trails that offer a more rustic experience. These natural trails are typically easy to moderate in difficulty, with minimal elevation changes, making them accessible for most hikers and trail runners.
What family-friendly activities are available beyond the playground and farm animals?
Beyond the popular farm-themed playground and observing farm animals, families can enjoy disc golf, fishing in the park's ponds, and picnicking at numerous tables and grills. The park also hosts a large community vegetable garden and offers historical exhibits in the Visitor Center and the restored Kinder family farmhouse, which is open on the second Saturday of each month.
How crowded does Kinder Farm Park get, especially on weekends or during peak seasons?
Kinder Farm Park can become quite popular, particularly on weekends, during pleasant weather, and in spring when baby animals are present. Parking tends to fill up quickly during these times, so arriving earlier in the day is often recommended for a more relaxed experience.
Are there any historical buildings or exhibits to explore at Kinder Farm Park?
Absolutely! The park preserves its agricultural heritage through several historical features. You can visit the restored Kinder family farmhouse, built in 1925, which is open on the second Saturday of each month. The Visitor Center also houses farming artifacts from the 1930s, including a tobacco press and vintage household items. There's also a replica tobacco barn and a sawmill that operates on Wednesdays.
What kind of wildlife can be observed at Kinder Farm Park?
Kinder Farm Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 195 species reported within its varied habitats. Beyond birds, visitors might spot common woodland creatures such as deer, foxes, and various small mammals, especially along the natural trails.
Are there options for food or accommodation near Kinder Farm Park?
While Kinder Farm Park itself does not have cafes or accommodation, it is situated in Millersville, Anne Arundel County, which offers various dining options and hotels within a short driving distance. You'll find a range of cafes, restaurants, and lodging choices in the surrounding communities.
Can I rent pavilions or other facilities for events at Kinder Farm Park?
Yes, Kinder Farm Park offers two large outdoor pavilions that are available for rent, making them suitable for family gatherings, parties, or other events. It's advisable to contact Anne Arundel County Recreation and Parks for booking information and availability.
Is Kinder Farm Park accessible for individuals with mobility challenges or strollers?
The park's 2.4-mile paved perimeter trail is generally flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for strollers and individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility aids. Access to some of the natural trails or certain historical buildings might be more challenging due to uneven terrain or steps.