The Enchanted Forest At Clark Elioak Farm

If you grew up in Maryland in the 70’s and 80’s, then surely you’ve heard about The Enchanted Forest. OMG! Just saying that name makes me think whimsical thoughts!​

For those of you who don’t know, The Enchanted Forest was one of the first theme parks on the east coast, originating in Howard County Maryland. It was a nursery rhyme themed park for kids with overactive imaginations. Some of the fairy-tale structures included Jack and Jill (who ran up the hill), Jack be nimble (who jumped over the candlestick), Peter Peter (pumpkin eater), Mary Mary (quite contrary), The Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe (and had so many kids she didn’t know what to do), and of course my personal favorite, Little Red Riding Hood.

When I was in sixth grade, my BFF,  Robin Alstatt, had a nanny named Janie who took us to The Enchanted Forest. Unlike Disney World, nothing moved or “came to life.” But these larger-than-life nursery rhyme objects appeared…well, enchanted. Oh the fond memories!

Unfortunately, The Enchanted Forest shut down, leaving many Marylanders heartbroken. (Seriously, when I heard it closed, it felt like a piece of my soul shut down too). I thought about the lost memories that would never come about for future generations, including my own children. So you can imagine how ecstatic I was when I heard the owner of Clark Elioak farm, located in Howard County Maryland, purchased most of the pieces from The Enchanted Forest and restored them back to their original condition.

So now I take my kids to Clark Elioak farm and reminisce about the good old days. And sometimes I wonder what ever happened to Robin and Janie.

If You Go: Address: 10500 Clarksville Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21042, Phone: (410) 730-4049, Open: April 1-November 5, 2017, Hours: 10AM-5PM, Petting Farm Admission: $6 per person (free for infants 12 months and under). This farm has lots of animals and even a pony ride. They usually have lots of adorable baby goats each summer too!

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