5 Best spots to hammock on campus
By Diego Riitano
November 6, 2020
With the temperature dropping and the leaves changing, the fall season is well upon us. Studying outside is a great way to change up your routine and get some fresh air while staying productive.
When it comes to outdoor set-ups, almost nothing beats a hammock. They’re totally portable, comfortable for reading or napping, and require just two trees to operate.
“I like hammocking because I love nature and being outside and it is just so relaxing to lie down in one,” said junior elementary education major Rachel Herman.
Here are five of the best hammock spots on UMD’s campus.
Mckeldin Mall
When it comes to outdoor set-ups, almost nothing beats a hammock. They’re totally portable, comfortable for reading or napping, and require just two trees to operate.
“I like hammocking because I love nature and being outside and it is just so relaxing to lie down in one,” said junior elementary education major Rachel Herman.
Here are five of the best hammock spots on UMD’s campus.
Mckeldin Mall
Image Credit: Diego Riitano for The Campus Trainer
It almost goes without saying, but McKeldin Mall is one of the best places to set up a hammock or just get outside. Trees surround the entire area, especially in the corners, so there is no shortage of hammock spots.
Another benefit of McKeldin Mall is its centralized location. It should be close to many people living on or close to campus.
The area is always abuzz with activity, whether it’s people passing through or groups playing Spikeball. If you enjoy some background activity while studying, then this is an excellent choice.
Hagerstown Hall
Another benefit of McKeldin Mall is its centralized location. It should be close to many people living on or close to campus.
The area is always abuzz with activity, whether it’s people passing through or groups playing Spikeball. If you enjoy some background activity while studying, then this is an excellent choice.
Hagerstown Hall
Image Credit: Diego Riitano for The Campus Trainer
On the North side of campus, just in front of Hagerstown Hall, there is a small wooded space with a few picnic benches strewn around.
Nestled squarely between multiple dorms, this is a quiet spot that is very accessible to underclassmen students. Just like McKeldin, there are plenty of spots to put a hammock, if you want to hang out with friends.
This area is peaceful and somewhat secluded, making it great for those struggling to concentrate.
Tawes Plaza
Nestled squarely between multiple dorms, this is a quiet spot that is very accessible to underclassmen students. Just like McKeldin, there are plenty of spots to put a hammock, if you want to hang out with friends.
This area is peaceful and somewhat secluded, making it great for those struggling to concentrate.
Tawes Plaza
Image Credit: Diego Riitano for The Campus Trainer
Directly in front of Tawes Hall is the Tawes Plaza Garden. This gorgeous plaza includes a garden, a fountain, and plenty of shaded seats and tables. There are a few trees as well, although not a huge number of hammock spots.
Tawes Plaza is located in a moderately trafficked area, although not nearly as busy as McKeldin. The fountain sounds make a relaxing backdrop for studying.
“This spot is very peaceful and serene. I love to work here because of the scenery and the minimal distractions,” said junior aerospace engineering major Benjamin Tebeest.
The Clarice Courtyard
Tawes Plaza is located in a moderately trafficked area, although not nearly as busy as McKeldin. The fountain sounds make a relaxing backdrop for studying.
“This spot is very peaceful and serene. I love to work here because of the scenery and the minimal distractions,” said junior aerospace engineering major Benjamin Tebeest.
The Clarice Courtyard
Image Credit: Diego Riitano for The Campus Trainer
Behind the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center is the Clarice Courtyard, a hidden grassy area with some seats available. Stretching past that is a series of small hills dotted with trees. This spot affords a decent view of the surrounding landscape.
For those that like to study in complete isolation, this spot is perfect. Almost no one comes through this area.
Garden of Reflection and Remembrance
For those that like to study in complete isolation, this spot is perfect. Almost no one comes through this area.
Garden of Reflection and Remembrance
Image Credit: Diego Riitano for The Campus Trainer
Next to the Memorial Chapel is the Garden of Reflection and Remembrance. This garden has plants and trees scattered throughout, with paths winding all around. There is a reflection pool as well as benches near the entrance.
This is another peaceful spot to study, though not quite as secluded. It is poised near the top of the hill, so some of the city of College Park can be seen below.
This is another peaceful spot to study, though not quite as secluded. It is poised near the top of the hill, so some of the city of College Park can be seen below.