Equestrian-themed Park Coming to the Area

It looks like Northern Frederick County will be getting another county park.

Frederick County Parks and Recreation has completed a Preliminary Master Plan for Kanode Farm Park, located along Stevens Road in Thurmont.

According to the Frederick County website, “The Richard W. Kanode Farm Park will provide future educational and recreational programming related to agricultural and equestrian pursuits. This park will include various upgrades and improvements to existing farm buildings, indoor and outdoor equestrian riding rings, and trails.”

Parks and Recreation recently hosted an open house to show off plans for the park and get public comment. An online version of the draft Master Plan is available on their website at www.recreater.com/874/Kanode-Farm-Park-Development. Public comments will also be accepted through an online survey at www.surveymonkey.com/r/KanodeMasterPlan until the end of the public comment period: May 31, 2023.

The Parks and Recreation Commission is expected to review the park Master Plan later this year with Phase 1 design beginning this fall.

Kanode Park will be a different type of park from the regional park that is planned near Emmitsburg on property Frederick County purchased from Mount St. Mary’s University.

The 152-acre park along U.S. 15 and straddling Motters Station Road will feature turf sports fields, courts for basketball, tennis and pickleball, walking trails, and a dog park.

More than 3 million people visit Frederick County each year, according to the county.

Preliminary Master Plan of Richard W. Kanode Farm Park, with Phase 1 design beginning this fall.

Map Courtesy of Frederick County Parks and Recreation