Once an amusement park frequented by visitors from Baltimore, Bay Shore Park, located on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay near the mouth of the Patapsco River, featured its Crystal Pier, a roller coaster, other rides called the Sea Swing, Thingamajig, and Whirl-A-Drome, a dance hall and music pavilion. The trolley line from Baltimore actually passed under the roller coaster before reaching the depot. The 208-foot long station is about all that is left of the amusement park, which closed in 1947.
According to the State Parks publication "Gunpowder Currents," the structure, which resembles a pavilion, is made from Georgia Pine timbers. During renovations, the rotting bases of the timbers were removed and replaced with new wood to maintain structural integrity. The building also received a new roof. Plans are to make the depot available for rental for weddings, family reunions, company picnics, etc.
The Bay Shore Park grounds were purchased by the Bethlehem Steel Company about 1948, which used the property as a hunting and fishing camp for its executives, among other uses. The state of Maryland acquired the property in 1987 and renamed it North Point State Park.
The Defenders Trail, see the park map, was used during the War of 1812, and passes through the park. North Point was also the site of the historical Bay Shore Amusement Park, a popular destination for summer visitors from 1906 until it closed in 1947. Visitors can see the original trolley shelter and fountain that have been restored. The trolley shelter is now a popular destination for special events and can be reserved by calling the visitor center. North Point is rich in natural beauty. Come see how Mother Nature reclaimed the land where the amusement park once stood. The park has scenic views overlooking the water, a wading beach, a fishing pier and hiking trails that lead you around the park and through protected wildlands.
c/o Gunpowder Falls State Park
2813 Jerusalem Road
P.O. Box 480
Kingsville, MD 21087