It was renowned American essayist and lecturer, Ralph Waldo Emerson, who said: “Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air.” With spring finally here, it is only a matter of time before people flock outdoors in search of some sunshine. Apart from helping to replenish your Vitamin D levels, spending time outdoors can also aid in shaking off the last of the winter blues. Here are a few outdoor destinations you can visit in Maryland that are bound to give your endorphin production a boost and leave you feeling happy and relaxed!

Soak Up the Sun at Sandy Point State Park

What better way to soak up some sun and just have fun than spending the day at one of Maryland’s most sought-after swimming destinations – Sandy Point State Park. The tranquil, mild waters are perfect for fishing, diving, and crabbing and also make for the ideal each-side frolic. If you don’t want to spend the entire day lazing around on the beach, take along your bike or hiking boots to explore the many trails of the Corcoran Woods. Apart from the multitude of chirpy birds you are bound to encounter, you will also be able to catch glimpses of the historical Sandy Point Farmhouse mansion in the distance.

Jog or Bike at Baker Park

If your idea of outdoor fun includes increasing your heart rate and breaking a sweat, you should definitely head on over to Baker Park in Frederick. Sporting just short of 60 acres of space, the park is home to multiple cycling and jogging paths, a pristine lake, various playgrounds where children of all ages can run, jump, and play to their heart’s content. The park has also played venue to some of Frederick’s most prestigious events of the past 75 years including music concerts, festivals, and an array of other recreational activities. A lot of effort goes into keeping the manicured landscapes of the park looking their best.  In addition to all of this, the park is also dog-friendly which means you can spend some time outdoors in close proximity to your very best friend.

Become a Paleontologist for the Day. If you really want to experience a rush of happy hormones, round up your family and head over to Chesapeake Bay. Here, science geeks of all ages will have an absolute ball digging for fossils that include the teeth of 23 million-year-old megalodon sharks. Other treasures you may stumble across include fragments of sharks vertebrae, ray teeth, and even fossilized shells. The best time to put your paleontology skills to good use is after a storm when fresh fossils are known to wash up on the beach. Some of the best spots to search for fossils include Purses Park, Flag Ponds National Park, and Calvert Cliffs State Park.

Maryland is home to many terrific outdoor destinations that promise to boost your mood and leave you feeling happy and fulfilled. Even if you are not a particularly active person you will undoubtedly still find pleasure by being in closer contact with Mother Nature.