Trails, Nature Center Included In Oakington Peninsula Park System Plan

HARFORD COUNTY, MD — A preliminary plan has been unveiled by county officials for the Oakington Peninsula Park System located between Aberdeen and Havre de Grace.

The waterfront property includes county-owned parkland at Swan Harbor Farm, Belle Vue Farm and Eleanor and Millard Tydings Park, the Mullins property and the Carlson-Feltman Conservation Area.

“The Oakington Peninsula is rich in natural, historical and cultural resources and we look forward to an amazing park system that will become a crown jewel of the mid-Atlantic region,” Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly said.

At one time, Belle Vue Farm was slated for development, but now all 1,400 acres on the peninsula are owned by Harford County government. The purchase of Belle Vue in 2020 was completed in partnership with Harford Land Trust, Aberdeen Proving Ground and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

The Oakington Peninsula Park System will be developed with public involvement in phases over the next 15 years. Initial phases will include the development of the walking trail system throughout the park properties, leaders said.

A preliminary map of the entire Oakington park system plan can be found on the county website, showing the potential location of recreational opportunities and historical and environmental features including:

• Land and water trails that connect to the city of Havre de Grace
• Bird watching opportunities throughout the park system
• Agricultural, historical and conservation demonstration areas
• Future nature center
• Event space
• Playgrounds and picnic area