Published: April 18, 2009 11:38 pm      

DNR encourages families to sign up for Park Quest

CUMBERLAND — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites families to sign up for the second season of Park Quest, a Maryland Park Service adventure-based program designed to encourage families to spend more time playing together outdoors.

Park Quest is a free 11-week competition, beginning May 9 and continuing through July 26, which challenges families to complete designated outdoor activities and challenges at 14 specific state parks throughout Maryland. Participants who complete eight of the activities will qualify to compete in the Park Quest Finale on Aug. 8 at Tuckahoe State Park.

Up to 300 teams, made up of at least one team member 16 or younger and one adult, may visit 14 state parks and take part in a variety of activities. Upon completing assigned activities, such as paddling quiet streams, hiking trails in search of historic clues, finding items on a scavenger hunt, and even disc golf, the team will receive a stamp on its Park Quest passport.

At the conclusion of the 11-week period, teams that have at least eight completed Park Quests logged in their passport will be invited to attend the Park Quest Finale. At the finale, teams compete in games of chance, environmental knowledge and outdoor skills for the opportunity to win one of several family prize packages.

Register online at www.dnr.maryland.gov/parkquest or by contacting the Maryland Park Service at (800) 830-3974.