Anadromous Fish: Anadromous sh are species that live in marine environments WATER TRAILS IN CHARLES COUNTY, MD and migrate to freshwater to spawn. Many species, such as striped bass, yellow Butterflies and Dragons Religious Freedom National Scenic Byway Paddling and Boating Safety Tips perch, white perch, shad and river herring, have substantial economic bene t for For More Information commercial and recreational sheries. ere has been a decline in these species in Maryland is home to about 151 species America’s roots of “toleration” run throughout Southern Maryland, where the Although many Charles County streams and coves are suitable for beginners, there of butter ies. Of these, 129 species are areas of open water that are subject to tidal in uence, high winds and strong Charles County Parks Department The Wild Side of the Potomac River the Chesapeake Bay system due, in part, to changing environmental conditions and original English settlers – Protestant and Catholic – recognized the rights of 1001 Radio Station Road water quality that impact the early regularly occur in Maryland and 22 individuals to hold dissenting religious opinions. Now, such freedoms are celebrated currents. Be prepared! Review these guidelines before getting on the water. La Plata, MD 20646 others are either irregular vagrants, such ose new to the water can take part in group paddle trips o ered by the County and harles County is located in Southern Maryland approximately 18 miles life stages of the sh. at long established places of worship all over the region. phone: 301-932-3470 as the Gulf Fritillary, or were once a more experienced boaters can create their own adventures that can range from a few www.charlescountyparks.com south of Washington, D.C. Charles County features a wealth of natural, Natural Heritage Areas and part of our landscape, but have now e Scenic Byway route includes hours to all day. Be prepared before you get on the water and review these guidelines. cultural and historic treasures, diverse natural landscapes, and an expansive Endangered Species: vanished, such as the Regal Fritillary. several branches that reach Charles County Office of Tourism Cwaterfront which o ers numerous 200 Baltimore Street, P.O. Box 2150 toward the Potomac River and Wear a properly- tted, U.S. Coast Guard approved, lifejacket while on the water. There are several endangered La Plata, MD 20646 opportunities for recreation and Maryland’s butter ies range in size from incorporates many of the nation’s (See Maryland Boating Regulations below) species habitats throughout Roland Tom phone: 301-259-2500 or 301-369-5819 water-based activities such as the large, showy Giant Swallowtail to the County including: Long’s oldest churches, including the site Boat with others and e-mail: [email protected] boating, paddling, shing, and the tiny and easily overlooked Eastern A Monarch butterfly Bittercress (Cardamine longii) on of the rst Roman Catholic Mass carry a spare paddle. www.charlescountymd.gov
wildlife viewing. Service U.S. Fish & Wildlife Tailed-Blue. Some are relatively camou aged to blend into their surroundings, like the Federal endangered species held in English speaking America. Boating safety increases the Tawny Emperor, while others are brilliantly colored to warn potential predators Long's Bittercress (left) and Joint-Vetch (right) with numbers. Leave Maryland Department of Natural Resources list, and Sensitive Joint-Vetch Visit the Religious Freedom Historically, Charles County's of their poisonous taste, like the Monarch. a copy of your " oat Chesapeake and Coastal Service (Aeschynomene virginica), which is on Maryland's list of endangered plants. Scenic Byway web site at www. economy was based on agriculture – plan" with a land-based Public Access and Water Trails Planning Program e dragon y dates back at destinationsouthernmaryland.com its rural landscapes interspersed with Communities that contain one or more threatened or endangered species or wildlife Charles County 580 Taylor Avenue, Suite E-2, Annapolis, MD 21401 least 320 million years, long contact. small towns and farming villages. species in need of conservation are designated as Natural Heritage Areas (NHA). and click on Byways and Trails to The Religious Freedom Scenic Byway features historic DNR coordinates the creation of a statewide system of
Charles County before dinosaurs roamed the But in the last decade, the county ese areas contain a unique blend of geological, hydrological, climatological or learn more. churches and cemeteries. Know your route and public water access sites and water trails and provides A scenic view of the Potomac River Shoreline. earth. Today nearly 5,000 technical, planning and design assistance to local has seen tremendous suburban biological features, and are considered to be among the best statewide examples of any potential hazards Lisa Gutierrez types are known worldwide. along it. Review governments and other partners. For more information expansion. e population has grown steadily from 111,600 in 1995, to 150,000 in its kind. Charles County has four designated Natural Heritage Areas: Allen's Fresh, Paddle with others visit www.dnr.state.md.us/pawt.asp Maryland is home to 180 Leave No Trace maps, river levels, and 2014. In spite of its growth, the county still has areas with small town characteristics Chicamuxen Creek, Popes Creek, and Upper Nanjemoy Creek. species and 60 percent are weather conditions before launching. Be aware of obstacles such as fallen trees, and a diverse variety of agricultural lands, natural areas and protected open space. Please practice the following stewardship principles of Leave No Trace: In Case of Emergency considered rare or uncommon, debris, islands and rocks which you In case of emergency, contact the Sheri 's Dept. Dispatch including the treetop emerald, may encounter along the route. Check at (301) +911 and specify that you are in Charles County, Birding and Wildlife Viewing Charles County For more information on paddling Natural Resource Features and Conservation the jewel wing and the 1) Plan Ahead and Prepare stream ow conditions at the USGS Maryland or call the Maryland Natural Resource Police at 410-260-8888. Dragonflies are generally larger than Damsels and hold Know your route and the limitations of yourself and boating safety visit Charles County has many lakes, ponds and extensive wetlands. Virtually all forested their wings horizontal when perched. blackwater bluet. website waterdata.usgs.gov/md/nwis/rt. and your group. http://cgaux.org or Partnerships and Coordination Charles County's environmental assets include an extensive shoreline, broad estuarine areas in the county are second-growth, but some are quite old. e varied topography Dragon ies are actually two closely-related groups of insects: damsel ies and Carry the proper equipment and clothing. Dress appropriately for the weather, air www.dnr.state.md.us/boating/safety Project coordination, design and mapping for this publication were provided by the Maryland and proximity to water make Charles County a natural destination for wildlife. rivers, forested areas, vistas of the Potomac, Patuxent and Wicomico Rivers and rural true dragon ies. Dragons tend to be larger, more robust and stronger iers; they Notify someone of the time you intend to return. and water temperatures and always wear Department of Natural Resources, Chesapeake and Coastal Service in partnership with the Charles County Parks Department. landscapes. e County's Paddling Charles County’s water trails provides an opportunity to explore and learn typically extend their wings horizontally. Damsels are comparatively small, dainty protective footwear. rivers, streams, marshland, about diverse habitats, in appearance and weaker iers. eir wings are usually lifted vertically and folded 2) Stay in Designated Areas and view all kinds Keep to designated trails and public areas. Carry a supply of food and water adequate for the length of your trip. Stay e facilities and services of the Department of Natural forests and shoreline support together above the body. ey feed on a variety of mosquitoes, midges, and black and Resources are available to all without regard to race, color, Keep groups small and avoid trampling plants. hydrated and protected from the sun year-round to minimize the danger of a wide variety of plant of wildlife. Here is a deer ies. Dragon ies have excellent vision. eir compound eyes contain 28,000 religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin or physical Protect wildlife and your food - store rations securely. dehydraton and heat exhaustion. and wildlife communities. sampling of some of facets, whereas a house y has only 4,000. or mental disability. ese diverse environments the County’s most Leave recreation areas and picnic sites cleaner than you found them. Never paddle farther from shore than you are prepared to swim and stay at least contribute to the County's celebrated natural For more information on Maryland's butter ies and dragon ies see 100 yards away from all moving vessels, piers and other restricted areas. Call toll free in Maryland, 1-877-620-8DNR ext. 8780. 3) Dispose of Waste Properly TTY users call via the Maryland Relay. Accomodations for overall beauty, quality of residents. www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/Plants_Wildlife/mdbutter ies.asp and Clean sh at designated areas. Keep your weight centered and as low as possible at all times, especially when individuals with disabilities will be provided upon request. life, and rural character. e www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/Plants_Wildlife/dragon ies.asp. Seven days advance notice is requested. 1st edition - 2008 Pick up litter and dispose of all waste in proper recepticals or take it with you. entering and exiting a boat. If your boat ips over, remain calm. Hold onto your 2nd edition - 2014 County has: The Bald Eagle: paddle and the boat if possible. Try to reach a calm, shallow spot or the shoreline, Every year, more and Layout, design and maps by Lisa Gutierrez. Text by DNR and the Charles County Parks Department. Tom Roland Tom • e largest Blue Heron Charles County 4) Leave What You Find and Be Considerate of Other Visitors then empty the boat and re-enter. more residents and Other Points of Interest in the Area Respect our natural and cultural heritage - leave all items as you found them. Rookery on the East Coast, Charles County features a variety of habitat. Nesting Bald Eagles are common in Charles County. located in Nanjemoy; tourists to Charles Keep noise to a minimum - enjoy the music of nature. Be alert to weather changes. understorms can be common during the warm County are reporting the thrill of watching a Bald Eagle soar over the Potomac River The Indian Head Rail Trail (IHRT) Respect private property and the privacy of others. weather months and are usually accompanied by temperature drops, increased • e second largest Bald Eagle population in the State; shoreline and hearing its call. e Bald Eagle has made a full recovery throughout e IHRT is a Rails-to-Trails success story. Charles County converted the abandoned winds and dark clouds. Get o the water immediately if you see lightning. For more information on Leave No Trace ethics visit www.lnt.org, call • One of the highest populations of breeding Red-Headed Woodpeckers in the State; Maryland and there are a number of nest sites in Charles County especially along the railroad corridor into one of the most popular trails in the region. e trail is Potomac River Shoreline. 13-miles long and connects the 1-800-332-4100, or contact your local resource managers for additional guidance. • One of the most productive tributaries of the Potomac, Mattawoman Creek, which Town of Indian Head with Route Maryland Boating and Fishing Regulations has a high diversity of sh, and healthy stands of aquatic vegetation; and Colonial Water Bird Nesting Sites: 301 in White Plains. e rail Wildlife Viewing Ethics WATER TRAIL ese are sites where water birds, such • Zekiah Swamp, the largest hardwood swamp in the Maryland, which is recognized line was built in 1918 as a supply Personal Flotation Devices: Boats propelled by oars or paddles are required to by the State for its unique ecological importance and received the highest rating of as herons, egrets, terns and glossy route for the Navy's Indian Head carry one PFD of either Type I, II, III, or V, for each person on board, regardless of all natural areas in the Chesapeake Bay region by the Smithsonian Institution. ibis, congregate or colonize during Powder Factory. e trail passes 1) Act responsibly. length. All motorized craft 16 – 65 feet must carry a Type I, II, III, or V, for each Adventures in the nesting season. ese species through the scenic and relatively Stay clear of nests, dens and person on board, plus one extra Type IV. Anyone under the age of 13, in a boat less have declined dramatically due to undeveloped Mattawoman Creek rookeries. Do not touch or than 21 feet in length, while underway, must The Potomac River and Fisheries habitat loss and human disturbances, stream valley where trail users will feed wild animals. Do not wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket particularly during the nesting see mature forests, wetlands and allow pets to interfere with all times. (MD State Law). Charles County, Maryland e Potomac River is the season. e Great Blue Heron is the McFeelion farms. For more information visit wild animals. second largest tributary to only colonial water bird known to The Indian Head Rail Trail www.charlescountyparks.com Boat Registration: All boats, whether the Chesapeake Bay. With nest in Charles County. e largest 2) Avoid getting too close. commercial or recreational, must be registered Blue Heron rookery on the East Chicamuxen Wildlife Management Area View wild birds and in Maryland if it is: equipped with any kind more than 296 miles of other animals from an Potomac River shoreline, Coast, north of Florida, is located in is 381-acre property was the site of a Civil War encampment led by Union General of primary or auxiliary mechanical propulsion; Tom Roland Tom appropriate distance. Nanjemoy, and is managed by e Joseph Hooker. Today, it is a protected area with abundant waterfowl and forest Hollingsworth, U.S. FWS John and Karen and used in Maryland most in a calendar year. the Lower Potomac River is If animals change their an important resource for A Great Blue Heron. Nature Conservancy. interior birds. Bald eagles can often be seen and many hiking trails allow visitors to View wildlife responsibly. U.S. Coast Guard documented vessels using
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service U.S. Fish & Wildlife behavior, appear nervous, explore the property. For more information visit www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/ Maryland waters are NOT exempt from the Maryland's commercial and keep looking at you with head up and ears pointing toward you, or if the animal Yellow Perch (Perca flavescens) Historic Waterfowl Staging and Concentration Areas: southern/chicamuxen.asp. vessel excise tax. When used principally in recreational shing industries. doesn't resume its normal activity, then you are too close. e Potomac River provides vital spawning grounds for the 64 documented sh Waterfowl nest and rear their young in tidal waters, tributary streams, and tidal and Maryland, documented vessels must display non-tidal wetlands. Waterfowl also derive at least part of their food from aquatic Port Tobacco Historic District a documented use decal. Visit http://dnr. species found in the waters below Washington D.C. e Potomac has eight major 3) Make your observation brief, then move on. tributaries and varies in width from less than 1 mile near Indian Head to over 10 plants and animals gathered during migration and throughout the winter season. Port Tobacco is one of the oldest communities on the If you are looking at baby birds in a nest, sh in a pond, etc., remember that they maryland.gov/boating/registration/ for more miles at its con uence with the Chesapeake Bay. Examples of waterfowl found in Charles County are Common Goldeneye, Canvas East Coast. Prior to being colonized by the English can't leave and that you are interrupting normal behavior. information. Back, Lesser Scalp, Greater Scalp in 1634, the site was home to the Indian settlement, and Buehead ducks. “Potopaco.” During the late 1600s, Port Tobacco became Maryland's recreational Largemouth Bass: Considered the most popular sport sh in the United States, 4) Don't chase an animal. Fishing Licenses: State of Maryland a major seaport, and later the county seat. Visitors to the shing requirements and rules are divided into Largemouth Bass like large, slow moving rivers or streams with soft bottoms and State of Maryland Don't chase an animal trying to get a better glimpse or photo. Don't follow Wear a Coast Guard approved PFD Forest Interior Dwelling Birds: area can tour the reconstructed Port Tobacco Courthouse, Tidal (Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries) clear water. ey are found in all waters of Maryland from freshwater to brackish (a Port Tobacco marker animals or behave in any way that might be seen as "harassment." And don't mix of fresh and saltwater) ere are 19 species of forest the restored One Room Schoolhouse built in 1876, and allow your pets to do it either. and Non-Tidal. A Non-Tidal Fishing License is required for both residents and non- including the Potomac River interior dwelling birds that are the omas Stone National Historic Site - a plantation home that belonged to one of residents to sh in the Potomac and its tributaries. Annual licenses require a fee for and the shoreline of Charles a orded protection in Maryland the signers of the Declaration of Independence. 5) Move quietly and slowly. Maryland residents and non-residents, which allows shing from January 1 through County. Largemouth Bass -- many of them are neotropical At popular viewing sites limit your movement and noise level so you do not December 31. A 3-day or 5-day license can also be purchased for a reduced fee. For average 2 to 3 lbs. in Potomac migrants. To breed successfully, Historic Port Tobacco Court House is located o of Chapel Point Road near distract the wildlife. Loud noises, sudden movements or an unannounced more information visit www.dnr.state.md.us/service/ shing_license.asp many of these birds need large the intersection of Route 6. In 1685, it was a naval port of entry for the Crown. approach can startle and cause stress to animals.
tidal waters. Five pound sh Roland Tom forest tracts of 50 acres or more, or are not uncommon and every e town remained a major port through the end of the Revolutionary War. corridors connecting larger forested Colorful Cardinals are among the birds seen in Catslide House, Stagg Hall and the Courthouse (1819) are open for tours. For more 6) Do not use calls or whistles, or try to rouse animals in any way. Consider a Shuttle year a few 7 to 8 pounders Charles County's forested areas. is can interrupt breeding cycles, drive birds from their territories, or make Duane Raver, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service U.S. Fish & Wildlife Duane Raver, tracts. e greatest threat to forest are caught. e record for information on visiting these sites call 301-369-5819. animals "call shy" so they don't respond to the real thing. The Wild Side of the Potomac River Maryland tidal waters was Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides) interior dwelling birds is increased fragmentation of forests due to land development. To enhance your water trail experience along routes that have more than one access caught in the Potomac River and was just over 11 pounds. Largemouth Bass spawn Historic St. Ignatius Church was founded in 1641. It is one of the oldest Catholic 7) Divide large groups of people into small groups. point, make plans to shuttle your vessels ahead of time. e idea of a shuttle is Produced through a partnership between the For more information on birding in Charles County contact the Maryland Audubon Parishes in continuous service in the United States. e manor house and church Small groups of people are less disturbing, usually talk more quietly, and tend to to launch your vessel at the upstream point of access and have your vehicle at the as early as March or as late as June, depending on water temperatures. For more Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Society at 410-558-2473 or 301-375-8522, or see http://somdaudubon.org/articles/ have served as residence for priests at Chapel Point for more than 300 years. Today, act in a more responsible way than big groups do. downstream destination. is is easily done with two or more vehicles. Employ a information on recreational size and creel limits in Maryland visit the web site http:// SorzanoBrochure2010.pdf dnr.maryland.gov/ sheries/regulations/regindex.asp the church is located adjacent to Maryland State Park Property. friend or hire a professional shuttle service to take you to your starting point. the Charles County Parks Department
43325 MDNR side1.indd 1 6/3/14 10:14 AM
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Mallows Bay to Purse State Park Trail
Friendship Farm Park Trails
Mallows Bay and the Lower Potomac River 3 2 Nanjemoy Creek, Hilltop Fork
6
H R C C R O F U A k and Church Creek C H D 425 R h e
is trail is part of the larger Lower Potomac River Water Trail, which runs from B S T I u re D A P T I ATER RAILS IN HARLES OUNTY E r C ch
W T C C N
Mallows Bay Park A Washington, D.C., to Chesapeake Bay. Access points are few and far between here, T D S Mallows R O H k O ese trails provide options for for paddlers of I P r I B L o V but experienced paddlers and those who are willing to portage will be rewarded by the R A A N all skill levels that range from leisurely to more D F E C I N Bay G beautiful views and variety of habitats. Start your paddle by launching at Mallows Bay. D p R R P challenging paddling experiences. eC creeks in this A O O A D o S O t R l l I area feature open water and scenic marshes, abundant i D Mallows Bay features one H N Friendship E S P with wildlife, marsh plants and several species of W E Explore The Wild Side of the Potomac River of the largest "sunken
D C ! O I dragon ies. Please note that all of the paddle routes S H Farm Park
ship graveyards" in North T I N R N N N Q here are loop trails which start and end atO the boat O America, with vessels a O R U A I A H harles County has paddling routes that range from short 1 to 2 hour trips, Mattawoman Creek Trail S ramp and/or kayak launch. n P dating from the period of D E W I K N j to all day excursions with overnight camping options. Miles of undeveloped R I e 1 Mattingly Park, Sweden Point and the Potomac River C N the American Revolution. O G A R m shoreline o er unparalleled opportunities for shing, bird and wildlife Hilltop Fork and Church Creek: To paddle these O A J A e area is home to over F D o watching, and exploring the Lower Potomac and its tributaries. D routes, launch and take a left (heading northeast). A y ere are many ways to explore the Mattawoman Creek trail. Launch from Mattingly R 100 wooden ships from C M Follow the shoreline to your left to enter Church r Park and head north to the Mattawoman Natural Environment Area (NEA). e sheltered of the U.S. Shipping e CSome of the routes are in sheltered areas with moderate wind and current conditions L R I V O A D Creek. is route is a good choice for less experienced e E k creek is good for paddlers of all levels, and the riparian forest habitat is excellent for bird- R P O O L R O Board Emergency Fleet, P O I N T that provide ideal conditions for novices and families. Other routes, such as those along paddlers or those wanting a leisurely experience since A watching. Paddlers can also follow the creek south past the U.S. Naval Surface Warfare D intended to carry troops the mainstem of the Potomac River, are more exposed and o er more challenging the high banks provide a more sheltered area where Center to Smallwood State Park or continue on to the Potomac River. e distance from
and supplies to Europe Charles County P opportunities for experienced paddlers. Mattingly Park downstream to Smallwood State Park, is approximately 4.5 miles and from paddlers are protected from extreme winds and rough during World War I.
water. e Church Creek route is approximately 2 the Park to the mouth of the Potomac River is and additional 2.25 miles. Keep in mind The sunken ships in Mallows Bay serve as habitat for wildlife. Water trails in this area support the Potomac River Water Trail, which is a federally Over time, many of the miles round-trip. To reach Hilltop Fork continue that the section of the trail below Smallwood is open water which is subject to wind, tide designated National Recreation Trail that spans from western Maryland to the Chesapeake ships have become small
r northeast past Church Creek following the shoreline uctuations, and variable weather conditions and is suitable for experienced paddlers only. Bay. e water trail falls within the corridor of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail islands with their own mini-ecosystems and have converted the Bay into an area of natural oy C m re to your left. Hilltop Fork has several ngers which e e nj e and historic wonder. By law, the state owns any historic artifacts in tidal waters. State and a k (PHNST). To learn more about the PHNST visit www.nps.gov/pohe. 6 N end in shallow waters. e round-trip route is about 4
Mattingly Park Boat Ramp v
federal ocials are dedicated to preserving and protecting these resources. e loop trail miles long.
1 Mattawoman Creek Trail i GPS Location: 38°35'24.90"N 77°9'38.86"W around Mallows Bay is approximately 1.5 miles long.
Managed by: e Town of Indian Head (301) 743-5511 D
2 Mallows Bay to Purse State Park (Lower Potomac River) Nanjemoy Creek:B To explore the meandering
R
A
ose interested in an extended and more challenging paddle can head south on the
Amenities: Two lane boat ramp with boarding piers, portable toilet, picnic tables, shing e O
headwaters of Nanjemoy Creek, launch and take a N
3 Friendship Farm Park Trails / Nanjemoy Creek Douglas Pt. Recreation Area a
Potomac River from Mallows Bay to Purse State Park. is route is approximately 3 R
piers and trails. e large paved parking lot has spaces for cars and trailers. is access right (heading southwest). is is another route that is
v
miles long and requires paddling on open water that is subject to tides, wind and waves. 4 Port Tobacco River Trail point is located along deep water in Mattawoman Creek and is most often frequented by Nanjemoy NRMA e relatively sheltered. rIt winds through low marshes and Along the way, paddlers can explore the Douglas Point Recreation Area / Nanejemoy R d O C
bass boaters and other small boats. c
I forested areas. e wateraway is accessible for several Miles ese maps are meant to be used as a reference for existing public boating access sites Natural Resource Management Area (NRMA), which is managed by the Bureau of Land V m C
Hours and fee: $5 access fee (pay at ramp-side honor box) P E miles but there are no suppor t facilities or designatedA a R 0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 2 and facilities. It is strongly recommended that you consult a range of other detailed Management (BLM). BLM allows beach access and day-use along the shoreline which B
Directions: Follow Indian Head Highway/Rt. 210 south approximately 18 miles from the C 0
S rest areas so paddlers need to monitor their distance.
T I
maps, charts and supplemental information geared to your speci c needs when planning makes it an ideal resting spot for paddlers. Driftwood from the river often collects in this r D
Capital Beltway (I-95). Turn left onto Mattingly Avenue and follow to the end of road.
is is a loop trail so plan for yeour return to the
m
E
for or undertaking extended excursions. area so use caution when landing and exploring. Climb the blu near the beach to see e
launch site. ose seeking a morke challenging T paddle
R beautiful views of the river and Virginia shoreline. is 1900-acre site is contiguous to o land trails and wildlife observation decks.
All boat launch and access site fees listed here are subject to change. Sweden Point Marina and Smallwood State Park experience can head straight out from the launch into
O
Purse State Park and Maryland Route 224. It has been labeled one of the most ecologically t
P e parking lot is paved with space for Marshall Hall the open waters of Nanjemoy Creek and the Potomac River. It is 5 miles one-way from the
GPS Location: 38°33'30.76"N 77°11'19.62"W
and culturally signi cant landscapes in Maryland. Migratory waterfowl, wading birds and Piscataway approximately 14 vehicles and one ADA
Park o
VIRG INIA Managed by: Maryland Department of Natural Resources (301) 743-7613 launch site to the Potomac River. is distance should only be attempted by experienced PRINCE GEORG ES COUNTY Bald Eagles are common sights. R accessible space. e park is 382 acres.
Amenities: e marina has a six-lane boat ramp, restrooms, picnic and shing areas, O paddlers.
P
LEGEND A Hours and fee: Open year-round from dawn
! campsites, trails, a seasonal concession stand and small boat rentals. Transient docking and D Cedarville Mallows Bay Park Boat Ramp and Soft Launch e boat ramp and dock area are designated as "Free Fishing Zones," meaning that no to dusk. No fee. State Forest Ruth B. Swann Memorial Park WALDORF annual leases are available for slips that can accommodate boats up to 36 feet. e parking e r Federal land Directions: From La Plata, take MD Rt. i v GPS Location: 38°28'8.77"N 77°15'49.31"W P shing license is required in this area. e park also has opportunities for wildlife viewing R Mattawoman lot is large and paved with room for 140 cars and trailers. e 628-acre park borders Natural Environmental DNR/State land and over seven miles of recreational trails which feature interpretive signs, benches and 6 (Port Tobacco Road) west to Durham c INDIAN HEAD Area ST. CHARLES Managed by: Charles County Parks Deptartment (301) 932-3470 210 a Mattingly Mattawoman Creek less than a mile from its con uence with the Potomac River. e Wades Park Mattawoman Amenities: Boat ramp, soft launch, and portable toilet. e paved parking lot has space observation decks. Church Road. Turn left onto Durham m U.S. Naval Surface Natural County/local land o Warfare Center Environmental park is named after General William Smallwood, the fourth Governor of Maryland and a t (Indian Head) Area Purse o for 16 cars, 15 trailers, and 3 ADA accessible spaces. e park also has hiking trails, Bay Church Road. which becomes Rt. 425 Myrtle Grove Municipality N
Revolutionary War ocer. e plantation home is open on Sundays with limited hours. ez Wildlife P 1224 Management Friendship Farm Park Boat Ramp and Soft Launch (Ironsides Road.) Turn left onto Friendship Area interpretive signs, and picnic areas. Laurel Springs BRYANTOWN Smallwood Park For more information visit the Park website at State Park State Park Water Hours and fee: Open year-round from 5:30 a.m to Dusk Landing Road which will end at the boat Chicamuxen 225 LA PLATA GPS Location: 38°27'14.81" N 77°9'1.17" W WMA http://dnr2.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/southern/smallwood.aspx Thomas Stone ramp parking lot. Lisa Gutierr 344 National Historic Park Directions: From MD Rt. 210 head south on Rt. 225 to Rt. 224 (Chicamuxen Road). C HARLES C OUNTYwater trail Hours and fees: Smallwood State Park is open year-round (April through October) from Managed by: Charles County Parks Department (301) 932-3470 425 Address: 4750 Friendship Landing Road, PORT ! Continue south on Rt. 224 which becomes Riverside Road. Turn left onto Wilson Landing Doncaster TOBACCO Amenities: Boat ramp, shing pier, primitive campsite, portable toilet, picnic areas, Paddlers exploring Nanjemoy Creek. State soft launch 5 a.m. to sunset, and (November through March) from 7 a.m. to sunset. e daily boat Miles Forest Oak Ridge Park Y Road and follow it to the end. Nanjemoy, MD 20662 224 6 Gilbert Run T ramp fee is $10 or $60 for a seasonal pass. Day use service charges are $3 per person on Lake Park boat ramp 0 0.15 0.3 0.6 0.9 1.2 r 6 e Address: 1440 Wilson Landing Road, Nanjemoy, MD 20662 iv R N
weekends and holidays, April through October; $3 per vehicle weekdays and weekends Mallows Bay
Park o
Mallows c Chapel Point restrooms U
Bay c State Park a
k b r
o BRENTLAND o year round (honor system in e ect when toll booth is not sta ed). Out-of-state residents
Friendship k 4 e F e T O
r C p s
425 Farm Park o es
T g r t
ll u
i B r Douglas Point Recreation Area / Nanjemoy NRMA 2 H Creek o picnic area C e NANJEMOY oos
G P Chapel Point State Park k 6 Douglas Point Recreation Area add $2 to all day use service charges. Headquarters Oce hours (November 1, 2012 -
Nanjemoy NRMA e
e k r C S ee R Cr A Port
y C IN o ’
m e camping Purse j H n March 31, 2013) are Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. I GPS Location: 38°26'58.76"N 77°15'45.65"W Wades State Park a G 3 y H Bay N W o A GPS Location: 38°28'14.58"N 77°1'53.37"W Y Y m Port Tobacco River Trail D Tobacco
e Blossom Point Zekiah Swamp A j O . Smith Field Test Facility R n Directions: Route 225 south from Indian Head to right on Route 224 (Chicamuxen Road) Natural Environment Managed by: U.S. Department of Interior, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lower R Point R parking
a Area Managed by: Maryland Department of Natural Resources at 301-743-7613 P O D N C c A C 6 Blossom 4 Port Tobacco Marina to Chapel Point and Goose Creek A Point i B
a at Mason Springs. e Park is on the right, 4 miles south of Mason Springs. Potomac Field Station (703) 339-8009 O V v M Amenities: Portable toilet, picnic area, shing, trails and a primitive paddle-in campsite T L m 40 224 e Wicomico La Plata . Amenities: Beach access, trails, picnic area and wildlife viewing. ere is a small gravel lot B Recreation Area o Mercy (available by permit only). Parking at the small gravel lot is limited. e 828-acre park T Lower Point t r Thomas T is trail is remote but very scenic. Start your trip at Port Tobacco Marina. is small, R Point o W Y O P i A for this site along Rt. 224. is site has 3 miles of land trails for hiking, horse riding, and P Y Gull 301 c S W Point o is located on the Port Tobacco River and is mostly natural areas with a rich diversity of Aqua-Land m H E . Nice G privately-operated marina is located in the quiet headwaters of the Port Tobacco River. ry W I Gov. Har H L i mountain biking, 548 acres of hardwood forest and marshes, picnic areas, and a universally Maryland MEMORIAL BRIDGE 257 Point c forest, eld, and tidal wetland habitats. Four permanent waterfowl blinds are available for R C
E A D I o H From the boat ramp head south along the river. Follow the shoreline and be aware of
I N D I A N S H H VIRG INIA accessible, historical interpretative walk and a hunting blind.
Lower Cedar observation or hunting use. e area has a small sand and gravel launch that is suitable for Point n I e S ax M A ow larger motorized boats that travel the main channel and can create waves in their wake. c 210 c Indian Head i P P M R Hours and fee: Open seven days a week year-round, from sunrise to sunset. No fee. E small boats, canoes and kayaks, and personal watercraft. Consult tide charts before visiting S i Chaptico Warf Cross the river to reach Fourth Point, which is the prominent outcropping that marks the L v Recreation Area Port Tobacco P Directions: From MD Rt. 210 head south on Rt. 225 to Rt. 224 (Chicamuxen Road) Cu L cko e ld this area since there is almost no beach at high tide. e waterfront o ers excellent shing.
C A Swan Point r r e Marina P e northwest corner of Chapel Point State Park. Follow the park shoreline south to reach the k Continue south on Rt. 224 which becomes Riverside Road. e parking area is on the N P Hours and fee: Open year-round from sunrise to sunset. No fee. D O eek Ch r Mattingly arle C earthen boat ramp. e distance from Port Tobacco Marina to the Chapel Point launch is I I ston Camp St. Charles right (west side of Route 224) approximately 1 mile past Liverpool Point Road. N N N Southern Bushwood Warf U.S. Naval Surface Park G Recreation Area Directions: Chapel Point is located 5 miles south of La Plata. From the MD Rt. 6 and Rt. T Park approximately 2.5 miles.
N Rock Point ea R
le S ou Warfare Center nd D
301 intersection, follow Rt. 301 south to Chapel Point Road. Follow Chapel Point Road
Cobb Island k ! R Indian Head Division n e e
a r Mattawoman Purse State Park O Cobb Point C west for approximately 2.3 miles to the park entrance, and follow signs to the ramp.
m e quiet and secluded shoreline of Natural Environment A o
w Area D a 224 GPS Location: 38°25'57.54" N 77°15'24.13" W Chapel Point State Park is ideal for t t r a D M O A Goose Bay Marina and Campground e R Managed by: Maryland Department of Natural Resources (301) 743-7613 exploring in canoes and kayaks. Chapel 425 v E N i U X Amenities: Access to the water at this site requires a 1/4-mile portage along a wooded, Point has a paddle-in campsite that A M Managed by: Goose Bay Marina and Campground (301) 932-0885 r H I C Mattawoman R C natural surface trail. Visitors should check tides before visiting, as there is very little beach is available seasonally and by permit Natural Environment ez Amenities: Goose Bay is a large H e Area Respect Private Property - Do Not Trespass area at high tide. Parking is provided at the small gravel lot on Rt. 224, which has room only. Call 301-743-7613 for permit E v privately-operated marina and N i c S R for approximately 8 vehicles. Other activities at the park include beachcombing, shing, information. Short trips can be made by O a N Lisa Gutierr campground located on the e water access sites on this map welcome the public but be aware D land trails, hunting, and bird heading either north or south from the L A m Port Tobacco River near the A o O that there are extensive privately-owned lands along each of the Scenic view from Chapel Point State Park N c R o k D e watching. e park is a 90-acre boat ramp, making a loop in the coves, I c t e con uence with the Potomac N water trails. Please respect private property - don't trespass. r G C a T o reserve located on Wades Bay, o and returning. e northern loop is a distance of approximately 1.5 miles and the southern River. e marina has restrooms, R b N Sweden O Fourth Pt. I P 224 A M a t t a w ! Point the Potomac River and has high loop is approximately 2 miles. ose wanting a longer, more challenging paddling a three-lane concrete boat ramp D o O o m a n T P
P quality forest, marshlands and experience can launch from Chapel Point and head south, crossing the river at Deep Point,
ATTENTION BOATERS that can be accessed between L
pools surrounded by moss-covered to reach the western shore of the Port Tobacco River and continuing to Goose Bay Marina E 9 a.m. and 8 p.m., and a large P P Boats propelled by oars or paddles are required A Chapel Point
U.S. Naval Surface rock walls. is is an excellent and Campground. e distance from Chapel Point boat ramp to Goose Bay Marina and H parking area. e campground t
to carry one personal otation device (PFD) of Warfare Center Smallwood Deep Pt. C N place for wildlife viewing as eagles, Campground is approximately 2.25 miles. r State Park Stump Neck Annex State Park D has both RV and tent camping
A either Type I, II, III, or V, for each person on D o O ospreys and Great Blue Herons A R sites. Campers have access to O
R P board, regardless of length. All motorized craft Joel Kinneson B R E N T L A N D can be seen here. Forest interior Port Tobacco Marina G S M bathhouses, the picnic pavilion, Chapel Pt. A On the dock at Goose Bay Marina O 16-65 feet must carry a Type I, II, III, or V, for L L nesting birds such as acadian O
Chicamuxen N W Miles XE GPS Location: 38°29'49.29"N 77° 1'34.86"W playground and swimming pool. S
U O each person on board, plus one extra Type IV. Wildlife Management AM 0 0.35 0.7 1.4 2.1 2.8 ycatchers, wood thrushes, IC O E H R. Drayer III Managed by: Port Tobacco Marina (301) 870-3133 is facility is very busy on weekends during the boating season, so plan ahead. C D Area Persons under age 13 must wear a U.S. Coast B C northern parula warblers, H 224 Hours and fees: Seasonal hours are 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Winter hours are limited. ere A U Wades Bay at Purse State Park Amenities: is site has restrooms, a concrete boat ramp, vehicle and trailer parking is in Guard approved PFD at all times in any boat R Y C ovenbirds, hooded warblers, H is an $8 boat launching fee and a $3 parking fee if you wish to park an additional vehicle. a small grass lot (on the hill). is site can get very busy on weekends during the boating L under 21 feet. (MD State Law). R Goose Bay D A . scarlet tanagers and the uncommon worm-eating warbler have been seen in the park and at season so plan ahead and visit accordingly. Directions: Follow US 301 south to the Intersection of US 301 & Rt. 6 (La Plata, MD), . P Marina other nearby places along Rt. 224. Hours and fee: Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily during the boating season. Winter hours are turn right on Rt. 6 (West) continue on Rt. 6 approx. 5.5 miles, turning left on Blossom Hours and fee: Open year-round from sunrise to sunset. No fee. limited. ere is a $5 fee to launch from the boat ramp. All visitors must go to the oce to Point Road (Goose Bay sign on roadway). Follow Blossom Point Road 1.6 miles, turning N Recreating on the water involves risks so safety and planning is of utmost importance. Even if the water Directions: Follow Rt. 225 south from Indian Head and take a right onto Rt. 224 pay the launch fee and receive a receipt. left on Brentland Road. Continue on Brentland Road 1 mile, then turn right on Goose eek Before you get on the water be sure to check looks calm, conditions on waterways are subject to rapidly changing conditions due to tides, wind and se Cr (Chicamuxen Road) at Mason Springs. Continue for approximately 13.5 miles. e Directions: From the Town of La Plata, go west on MD Rt. 6 (Port Tobacco Road) to Bay Lane. Follow Goose Bay Lane to the store (on left). Be careful, there are speed bumps oo weather. Be sure to check river levels before launching. For more information call the National Weather G parking lot is on left (east side of Route 224), 1.8 miles south of Liverpool Point Road. Shirley Blvd. and follow the signs to the marina. on this road. For more information see www.goosebaymarina.com. Miles Weather, Tides and River Conditions Service at 703-996-2200. Address: 2750 Sweden Point Road, Maurbury, MD 20658 Address: 7610 Shirley Blvd., Port Tobacco, MD 20677 Address: Goose Bay Lane, Welcome, MD 20693 0 0.2 0.4 0.8 1.2 1.6
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