Discover
Baltimore's

Hidden Gem

Located in South Baltimore, Masonville Cove is the nation's first Urban Wildlife Refuge Partnership, home to Captain Trash Wheel, a green nature center and beautiful waterfront trails. Come and explore a place where nature and community connect!

Plan Your Visit

Acres
of water

Acres
of restored wetlands
and nature trails

100%

Free
parking and
admission

90+

Species
of migratory birds

20+

Miles
of walking trails

Our Mission

We connect people with nature through hands-on experiences that
inspire care and stewardship of the environment.

Things to Do

Adventure waits around every bend

Whether you have an afternoon or a full week, there is something in Masonville Cove to get your heart beating and your lungs full of fresh air.

A blue heron perched on driftwood by the bay.

Bird Watching



Masonville Cove lies along the Atlantic Flyway — a critical stop for ospreys, great blue herons, egrets, and dozens of migratory shorebirds. Bring your binoculars.

Walking trails wind through the grass beside the bay.

Waterfront Trails



Stroll or jog 3 miles of scenic waterfront paths that wind through tidal marshes, meadows, and along the shores of the Patapsco River.

Fishing



Cast a line from the fishing pier into the Patapsco River. Striped bass, white perch, and catfish are common catches. Maryland fishing license required.

A kayaker silhouetted on the water at sunset.

Environmental Education



Join us for one of many free- family friendly environment education programs in our environmental education center.

Summer on the bay 2026

Osprey season is here.
The Bay is alive!

July brings the peak of osprey nesting season at Masonville Cove. Watch these magnificent fish hawks dive and hunt over the Patapsco — and look out for juvenile herons taking their first flights along the waterfront trail.