The Friends of Maryland State Parks (FMSP) is a statewide non-profit, all volunteer, citizen’s 501©(3) organization (FED ID# 52-2049562) formed in 1997 to preserve, protect, enhance and advocate for our state parks — one of Maryland’s most precious treasures. We believe state parks are public lands that belong to “all citizens” and future generations.
The FMSP Foundation focuses on investments in our state parks that provide: economic value to local economies, nature programs for children, critical maintenance and capital improvements for our parks, and healthy lifestyles for park visitors.
Maryland State parks offer opportunities and programs that enhance the health and wellness of its users.
Your State parks offer hands-on outdoor learning opportunities for youth through programs such as the Junior Ranger, Conservation Jobs Corps and interpretive programs.
Maryland State Parks include many historical and cultural sites such as Fort Frederick, Harriet Tubman, and the Casselman River Bridge. Facilities like these will continue to degrade without your help!
Chuck Hecker, President – Retired Park Ranger Major
Sarah Witcher, Treasurer – Natural Resource Biologist
Tim Casey, Secretary – Retired Corporate Executive
Mel Poole, Vice President – Retired Superintendent Catoctin National Park
Stacy Schaefer, Executive Director Charles Co. Resilience Authority Fran Gower, Retired Lieutenant Maryland Natural Resources Police
Rusty Ruszin, Retired Park Ranger Colonel, Superintendent, MPS Wendell Jones, Retired Park Ranger Lieutenant Rick Decker, Retired Executive Department of the Army