North Point State Park is a public recreation area located on Chesapeake Bay in Edgemere, Baltimore County, Maryland. The state park includes the site of the former Bay Shore Park, which was one of the state's premiere amusement parks during the first half of the 20th century. The park features restored remnants of the old amusement park as well as facilities for swimming, picnicking, bicycling, and hiking. Black Marsh, a 667acre state wildlands area, makes up half the park's area. The park is administered by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.HistoryThe park occupies the southeastern portion of Patapsco River Neck, a peninsula of historically agricultural use. Evidence suggests that the area was first occupied by humans 9000 years ago. During the War of 1812, it was on the route traveled by British troops intent on invading Baltimore from the southeast and several skirmishes were fought there. The site was used for farming for some three and a half centuries before becoming the site of Bay Shore Amusement Park, a popular destination for summer visitors from 1906 through 1947. Bay Shore ParkBay Shore Amusement Park (or Bay Shore Park) was built on 30 acres in 1906 by the United Railways and Electric Company of Baltimore using plans drawn up by architects Otto Simonson and Theodore Wells Pietsch. During its time, the park was a lively and attractive place offering a variety of recreations and relaxation along the Chesapeake Bay. Activities included a dance hall, bowling alley, restaurant, and pier. In addition to the trolley/streetcar from Baltimore, visitors could reach the park by steamboat from Baltimore to the park pier. Jimmy Doolittle won the Schneider Trophy seaplane race held at the park in 1925, an event attended by aviation pioneers Orville Wright and Glenn L. Martin.
"Park is open 8:00 am until Sunset, closed on Christmas DayVisitor Center Hours:Memorial Day to Labor DayMonday-Sunday9 a.m to 5 p.m.Hours of operation are subject to change. Call to confirmNorth Point is known to fill to capacity on summer weekends and especially holidays. All visitors will be turned away if the park fills to capacity. Visitors are encouraged to arrive at park opening and safely carpool if possible. No re-entry if park is full. Know before you go! Call 410-477-0757 to inquire about any park closures.Small concession items are available for sale at the Visitor Center during operational hours.Visit the park website for more information."
