Development at Little Bennett should emphasize the Park's natural features, beauty and tranquil environment while at the same time providing Montgomery County residents with a variety of recreation experiences oriented to this unique outdoor setting.

Little Bennett Regional Park Master Plan, Jan. 2007
(restated from the Park's 1985 Master Plan)

Located near the northern border of Maryland's Montgomery County, Little Bennett Regional Park is both the largest County park (3700 acres) and the one with the best natural environment. Park visitors can experience a feeling of solitude in nature that approaches being 'lost in the woods' though they are less than 30 miles from the Washington Monument and downtown Washington DC.

The Park is quite hilly, heavily forested and six named streams empty into Little Bennett Creek within its boundaries. A total of 249 different native plant species are found in the Park and, together with the its extensive, hilly acreage and numerous creeks, this contributes to a good variety of birds, fish and other wildlife.

The natural resources of the Park area, together with its location along MD 355, have played an important part in its history. Natural resource extractive industries including logging, quarrying and farming have existed in the Park area and its nearby surroundings. In addition, early manufacturing facilities relied on water power from Little Bennett Creek to process locally extracted natural resources. There are 11 historic sites in the Park including the Montgomery Chapel Cemetery, Zeigler Log House, Hyattstown Mill and Kingsley Schoolhouse.

Over 20 miles of both hiker-only and multi-use natural surface trails enable visitors to safely experience the Park’s forests, creeks, plants, wildlife, historic sites and a 'get away from it all feeling.' Other Park facilities include a 91-site campground, 18 hole golf course and driving range. A Park gateway area is planned that would provide a visitor center, outdoor education area, adventure playground and other features that would introduce visitors to the many natural and historic aspects of the Park.

Among other activities, Park visitors enjoy hiking, cycling, birding, camping, fishing, horseback riding, plant walks, picnicking, interpretive programs and golf.