Baltimore County is a treasure trove of outdoor destinations. 

For a quick, easy and inexpensive day trip, check out one of these nearby nature centers or parks. 

Oregon Ridge Nature Center

• 13555 Beaver Dam Rd., Cockeysville, MD 21030
• Tue-Sun, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Closed Mondays 
• From environmental education programs to extensive hiking grounds, this center is a must-see for families battling the lazy days of summer. Check out the website for frequent special events. 

Marshy Point Nature Center

• 7130 Marshy Point Rd., Middle River, MD 21220
• Center open daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., while the park is open 9 a.m. to dusk
• Water sports, campfires and even snake tutorials push this center above and beyond your average park. Sign up for a low-cost program or simply show up at the main building for a naturalistic adventure. 

Cromwell Valley Park

• 2002 Cromwell Bridge Rd., Baltimore, MD 21234
• Park open daily, dawn to dusk, gates close at sunset, park office is open Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and closed Saturdays and Sundays
• Towson and Parkville aren't exactly known for their pastures and meadows—unless you frequent this 380-acre park, located between both communities. Park guides are anxious to share a simpler way of life with locals through multiple family-friendly programs.

Lillian Holt Park and Center for the Arts

• Holt Center, 34 Elmont Ave., Baltimore, MD 21236
• Park open daily, dawn to dusk
• Stargazing, craft-making, history and trails—this park's multiple programs are mainly the efforts of the Overlea Fullerton Recreation Council. The area includes an outdoor amphitheater, gazebo, lily pond and labyrinth. 

Robert E. Lee Park

• 1000 Lakeside Dr., Baltimore, MD 21210
• Park open daily, dawn to dusk
• In addition to kayaking, canoeing and nature programs, this 415-acre park is one of the few in the county with a space designed especially for dogs—Paw Point dog park is a great source of summertime fun for the pooch, too.