Anne Arundel
County Launch Sites
Amos Garrett Park
Location: Annapolis, Anne Arundel County ADC map 20 H11
Date: September 6, 2005
Phone: 410-263-7973 (harbormaster)
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take
highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Take exit 23, Parole. At the end of the ramp, turn left (east) onto West Street.
West Street will come to a circle. Stay on West Street by taking the second right.
Make the next right onto Amos Garrett Boulevard and follow to the end.
Notes: This is a public small boat landing. It is 33 minutes from Arbutus in light traffic. No restroom or water refill station. Garbage can present. Access to Spa Creek. You can paddle directly across Spa Creek to Truxton Heights Park and use the restroom there at the top of the hill. When returning from a trip, look for the "Cable Crossing" sign at the north end of the creek. There is no parking lot but you can park along the side of the road in the neighborhood. Launch early so you don't have to carry your boat too far in case there are others also intent on launching. Or, just launch from Truxton Heights Park. This is a good launch point for a night paddle since no hours are posted indicating that the park is ever closed. If returning via West Street, when you are in the circle, make the right after the cemetary.
Back Creek Nature Park
Location: Annapolis, Anne Arundel County ADC map 21 B13
Date: June 1, 1999
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take
highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Take exit 22 to Aris T Allen Boulevard (route 665) southeast.
Aris T Allen Boulevard eventually turns into Forest Drive. Forest
Drive merges with Bay Ridge Road.
At the Bay Forest Shopping Center, turn left onto Edgewood Road.
If you come to Arundel on the Bay Road, you’ve gone too far.
The park is on the left.
Notes: The park is a very small grassy area with room for about 4
cars. Restroom available. 35 minute drive from
Arbutus. Access to Back Creek. Beware of submerged boulders
near the 3 radio towers. On return trip, look for water tower to
find your way back. Back Creek is northwest of the water tower
while the launch site is just southwest of it. This launch site is the closest I know of to Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse, a mere 5.5 miles. There is a small beach and porta-john on the south side of Thomas Point Park, just 1.2 miles west of the lighthouse on the north side of the mouth of the South River. Good place to rest
Carrs Wharf
Location: Mayo, Anne Arundel County ADC map 25 E13
Date: July 3, 2005
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take
highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Take exit 22 to Aris Allen Boulevard (route 665) southeast. Stay
in the right lane.
Turn right (south) at Solomons Island Road (route 2).
At Mayo Road (route 253), turn left (southeast).
Turn left (southeast) on Central Avenue East (route 214).
At the Mayo Post Office (on the right), turn right (southwest) onto
Carrs Wharf Road.
Carrs Wharf Road will veer to the left. Head straight onto Cadle Creek Road. Follow to end.
Notes: Porta-john available. Parking can be scarce during prime time. About 40 minutes
from Arbutus. Access to Rhode River.
Downs Memorial Park
Location: 8311 John Downs Loop, Pasadena, Maryland 21122, Anne Arundel County ADC map 10 H11
Date: May 2, 2007
I've had some people tell me one can launch a kayak at the beach at this park but on May 2, 2007, I was told by the park superintendent that the launching of any vessel is not permitted.
Ferry Point Marina & Yacht Yard
Location: 700 Mill Creek Road, Arnold 21012-1128, Anne Arundel County
ADC map 15 G6
Phone: 410-544-6368, 410-647-9793
Date: July 24, 2002
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take
exit 2 south on the Arundel Expressway (route 10).
Turn left (southeast) onto Governor Ritchie Highway (route 2).
Turn left (east) at College Parkway.
Turn left at Jones Station Road. Note that this road is not the
same Jones Station Road that intersects Governor Ritchie Highway
further north.
Turn left at Mago Vista Road.
Turn left at River (Road?) and follow to end at Mill Creek Road
intersection.
Ferry Point Marina is straight ahead.
Notes: Office is open 0900-1700 daily. $15 launch fee. Do
not park for an extended period near the ramp. Insert money in
envelope and push through mail slot on office door. Envelopes and
pens are on office door. Facing the water, the restroom is just
right of the restaurant. Access to Magothy River.
Previously, one could launch at the small park next to the marina but
launching is no longer permitted.
Fort Smallwood Park
Location: 9500 Fort Smallwood Road, Pasadena, MD 21122, Anne Arundel County ADC map 10 A2
Date: May 31, 2007
Park staff told me that I could not launch my kayak from this park on May 31, 2007. This City of Baltimore Park should not be confused with Smallwood State Park which does have a launch site.
Galesville
Location: Galesville, Anne Arundel County ADC map 30 C8
Date: June 23, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take
highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Take exit 22 to Aris Allen Boulevard (route 665) southeast. Stay
in the right lane.
Turn right (south) at Solomons Island Road (route 2).
One mile after reaching the bridge, you'll come to Mayo Road (route 253). At Mayo Road, turn left (southeast). Follow for 1.2 miles.
Turn left (southeast) on Central Avenue East (route 214). Follow for 0.7 miles.
Turn right (southwest) at Muddy Creek Road (route 468). Follow for 4.7 miles.
Turn left at Galesville Road (route 255) and follow to end.
Turn left at Riverside Drive.
Park in the lot on the right.
Notes: The main parking lot near the Inn at Pirates Cove has room for about 14 vehicles. The lot fills up quickly on weekends. There is additional parking in a dirt lot just on the other side of Galesville Road. This lot holds 8 vehicles. Porta-john available. Short
carry to the small sand and mud beach. Several restaurants in the
area include Thursdays Steak and Crab House, the Inn at Pirates Cove, and Riverview Inn. Access to West River. There might be kayak storage space rental at the Inn at Pirates Cove. Grill and picnic table near the launch site. 7 miles to Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse. There is a small beach and porta-john on the south side of Thomas Point Park, just 1.2 miles west of the lighthouse on the north side of the mouth of the South River. Good place to rest. 50 minutes from Arbutus. 40 minutes from Hanover.
Geisler Point Marina
Location: 7831 Southwest Road, Pasadena 21122, Anne Arundel County ADC
map 10 G7
Phone: 410-255-0549, 410-956-5611
Date: May 30, 2004
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take
exit 2 south to the Arundel Expressway (route 10).
Take highway 100 southeast.
Turn left at Magothy Bridge Road (route 607) north. This will
turn into Hog Neck Road.
Turn right (northeast) at Fort Smallwood Road (route 173).
Turn right at Bayside Beach Road and follow to the end.
Turn right on Thackara Road and follow to end.
At Bodkin View Drive, turn right and follow to end.
Turn right on Southwest Road and follow to end.
Marina is on the left.
Notes: Launch fee is $15. Insert money in mailslot in form stone
building. 31 minute drive from Arbutus. Access to Bodkin
Creek.
Jonas Green Park
Location: Annapolis, Anne Arundel County ADC map 21 A7
Date: October 14, 2005
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take
highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Severn River Bridge then take exit 27 southeast to
Governor Ritchie Highway (route 450).
Before crossing over the U.S. Naval Academy Bridge, turn left onto
Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard (route 648).
Take the first right onto a road that leads under the bridge.
Notes: Porta-johns available. A restaurant called the Severn Inn stands
southeast (downstream) of the parking lot. On the northwest (upstream) side of the parking lot near the porta-johns, there is a sandy beach, ideal for launching. Be cautious of fishing lines near the pier. If paddling upstream or in Weems Creek, be sure to stay away from the midshipmen practicing their rowing. It is best to paddle near the shore in Weems Creek since their rowing shells move like torpedoes.
Marley Creek Marina (formerly Glen Burnie Boat Yard)
Location: Glen Burnie, Anne Arundel County ADC map 8 E2
Phone: ?
Date: July 27, 2002
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take
exit 2 to the Arundel Expressway (route 10) south.
Turn left (south) on Furnace Branch Road (route 270).
Turn left on Margate Drive.
Turn right on Leymar Road.
Turn left into the Marina.
Notes: Portable toilet available. Boat ramp fee is $5 Monday
through Thursday and $10 Friday through Sunday. 17 minutes from
Arbutus. Access to Marley Creek. Sells ice, has soda machine, and will supposedly be selling snacks later in 2008.
Patuxent Wetlands Park
Location: Upper Marlboro, Prince George’s County ADC map 27 H4
Date: August 1, 2002
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take
highway 97 south.
Take exit 7 to Crain Highway North (route 3) southwest. Route 3
will eventually turn into Crain Highway South (route 301).
Turn left (east) at Pennsylvania Avenue (route 4, south exit). Follow for 1.6 miles.
Turn left (east) on Waysons Corner Annapolis (route 408, Mount Zion
Marlboro Road). Follow signs for Patuxent Wetland Park.
Immediately after crossing over route 4, turn left before the Texaco
gas station. The road will bear to the left. Follow to end, about 0.4 miles.
The launch site is on the right.
Notes: Hand carried boats only. Paddle left 120 meters to get to
the Patuxent River. Once on the Patuxent River, go left to get to
Jug Bay or right to go upstream. Open sunrise to sunset.
The launch site is extremely shallow and narrow. Plan to launch
and return when the tide is high.
No restrooms. Access to Patuxent River and Jug Bay. 45
minutes to Arbutus.
Patuxent River, Queen Anne
Location: Queen Anne, Prince George’s County ADC map 22 D3
Date: March 22, 2003
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take
highway 97 south.
Take exit 7 to Crain Highway North (route 3) southwest. Route 3
will eventually turn into Crain Highway South (route 301).
Turn left (east) on Queen Anne Road. If you come to Trade Zone
Avenue (Prince George’s County Police Department), make a U-turn to go
north on route 301. The next right will be Queen Anne Road.
After about 2 miles, turn right on an unmarked dirt road after Kanode
Road but before Queen Anne Bridge Road. When this road splits, be
sure to stay on the left. Follow to end.
Notes: At the time of this writing, the dirt road leading to the launch
site has been closed due to its poor condition. The launch site
is about 6.2 miles (paddling distance) north of Pennsylvania Avenue
(route 4) and 1.8 miles south of Central Avenue (route 214) on the
Patuxent River. Paddling north on the Patuxent River is difficult
due to the number of trees and branches in the water. Restroom
available. This launch site is part of the Patuxent River
Park. Special use permit or reservation required for all
activities. No fishing. Area closes at dusk. For more
information, call 301-627-6074.
Pier 7
Location: 48 South River Road, Edgewater, Anne Arundel County ADC map
24 K2
Phone: 410-956-2288
Date: August 18, 1999
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take
highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Take exit 22 to Aris Allen Boulevard (route 665) southeast. Stay
in the right lane.
Turn right (south) at Solomons Island Road (route 2).
After crossing the South River Bridge, take the first left onto South
River Road.
Notes: Access to South River. The Chesapeake Paddlers Association (CPA)
meets on Wednesday nights 1600-1800 at Pier 7. Kayak launching on
Wednesday nights is FREE. Otherwise, there is a fee. 7.5 miles to Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse. There is a small beach and porta-john on the south side of Thomas Point Park at the northern side of the mouth of the South River. Good place to rest.
Sandy Point State Park
Location: Anne Arundel County ADC map 22 D8
Date: 1999
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take
highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Take exit 30? or 32? to Sandy Point State Park.
Boat ramp is on the right.
Notes: About 45 minutes from Arbutus. Restrooms available.
The trip across the Chesapeake Bay to Kent Island is about 4 miles one
way. Extreme caution should be used while crossing the shipping
lanes. $5? entrance fee during the summer, $1 off season.
During the off season, the entrance may not be manned so be sure to
bring dollar bills or quarters for the automated gate. Note the
speed limit at the park. Watch out for speed traps during the
summer! Water can get very rough.
Smith’s Marina
Location: Crownsville 21032, Anne Arundel County ADC map 14 G11
Phone: 410-923-3444, 410-987-9370
Date: July 27, 2002
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take
highway 97 south.
Take exit 5 to Generals Highway (route 178) south.
At the Osprey gas station, turn left on Herald Harbor Road.
Follow to end then turn left on Old Herald Harbor Road/River Road.
Make the first right onto Ridgley Road.
Marina is on the right.
Notes: $15 boat ramp fee. Access to the Severn River.
Solleys Cove
Location: Anne Arundel County ADC map 3 H11
Date: July 4, 2005
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695)
meets highway 95, take highway 695 east (counterclockwise).
Take exit 1 to Quarantine Road.
Turn right on Quarantine Road.
Turn left (east) on Hawkins Point Road.
Keep going straight as it turns into Fort Smallwood Road (route 173).
Turn right (west) at Pittman Road.
Turn left (south) at Carbide Road.
Carbide Road ends at a dirt road.
Follow the dirt road to the American Legion Post 277 building.
Park on the grassy area south of the building near the water.
Notes: No restrooms. Access to Curtis Creek and Marley Creek. Sandy launch area is full of trash and smells bad. Bald eagles have been spotted on several occassions on the east side of Marley Creek. On the east side at the top of the power line platform is a large (eagle?) nest, spotted on July 4, 2005. At the south end of the creek, past the overpass, is a more natural area where I've spotted several muskrat and other wildlife.
Stoney Creek Bridge Marina
Location: 430 Greenland Beach Road, Anne Arundel County ADC map 9 E2
Phone: 410-255-5588
Date: April 11, 2008
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695)
meets highway 95, take highway 695 east (counterclockwise).
Take exit 1 to Quarantine Road.
Turn right on Quarantine Road.
Turn left (east) on Hawkins Point Road.
Keep going straight as it turns into Fort Smallwood Road (route 173).
Just before crossing the draw bridge, turn right onto Greenland Beach
Road. This will be on the west side of Stoney Creek. Note
that Greenland Beach Road connects to Fort Smallwood Road twice.
Either entrance will work.
Marina is on the east side.
Notes: Launch fee is $15 fee on weekdays and $25 on weekends.
Restrooms and soda machine available. Access to Stoney
Creek. 19 minutes from Arbutus. The side of Stoney Creek
that meets the Patapsco River can get very congested with boats on the
weekend.
Truxton Heights Park
Location: Annapolis, Anne Arundel County ADC map 20 J12
Date: October 30, 2004
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take
highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Take exit 22 to Aris T Allen Boulevard (route 665) southeast.
Aris T Allen Boulevard eventually turns into Forest Drive.
After Rosecrest Drive, turn left onto Tyler Avenue.
Turn left on Primrose Road. Keep left and the road will end at
the boat launch.
Notes: There is a small sandy beach to the left of the concrete
launch. Parking is uphill. Access to Spa Creek. Restroom available. When returning from a trip, look for the "Cable Crossing" sign at the south end of the creek.
Turkey Point Marina
Location: 1107 Turkey Point Road, Edgewater, Anne Arundel County ADC
map 25 H11
Phone: 410-798-1369
Date: July 31, 2002
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take
highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Take exit 22 to Aris Allen Boulevard (route 665) southeast. Stay
in the right lane.
Turn right (south) at Solomons Island Road (route 2).
At Mayo Road (route 253), turn left (southeast).
Turn left (southeast) on Central Avenue East (route 214).
Left (east) on Turkey Point Road.
Marina is on the right side of the road just after crossing the bridge.
Notes: $15 fee to launch on weekdays, $20 on weekends. Insert
money in slot next to boat ramp. Envelopes to insert money are
located next to the front door of the office. Launch
anytime. Restrooms available but controlled via cipher
lock. Soda, juice, and water machine available. 30 minutes
from Fort Meade. Access to mouth of the South River.
Baltimore
County Launch Sites
Baltimore Rowing and Water Resource Center/Aquatics Division
Location: 3301 Waterview Avenue, Cherry Hill, Baltimore
County ADC map 43 A6
Date: May 8, 2005
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 695 east (counterclockwise).
Take exit 7 to the Baltimore Washington Parkway (highway 295) north.
After passing the Harbor Tunnel Thruway (highway 895), take the
Waterview Avenue exit right (southeast).
Look for a building on the left with a sign that reads “Baltimore
Rowing and Water Resource Center/Aquatics Division.” A floating
pier for small boat launches may be found behind this building.
Getting back to highway 295 can be a bit tricky.
To return on 295 south, take Waterview Avenue west and turn left on
Annapolis Road (route 648). This is the first left after crossing
over highway 295.
Take the first left. There is no sign for this turn but it is the
on-ramp to highway 295 south.
Notes: Launch site is about 17 minutes from Fort Meade. Restrooms
next to building or slightly east near playground. Access to Middle Branch and the Patapsco
River. The area under highway 395 is very shallow. Gwynns
Falls is extremely polluted. Just southeast of the Harbor
Hospital, the (Little) Patapsco River flows through Patapsco State Park
and separates Baltimore and Anne Arundel County then enters into the
(Big) Patapsco River. If paddling up the (Little) Patapsco River,
beware of fishing lines and crab net lines that hang from Hanover
Street, Potee Street, and Patapsco Avenue. Also watch for fishing
lines from the shore. Paddling up the (Little) Patapsco River is
scenic and natural although paddling gets difficult once crossing under
highway 695 due to water depth (too shallow). I've paddled up as far as highway/route 195.
Beacon Light Marina
Location: 825 Bowleys Quarters Road, Middle River, Baltimore County ADC
map 38 E7
Phone: 410-335-6489
Date: Unexplored. Phone recon conducted August 2002.
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 695 counterclockwise (east) to exit 36,
Southeast Boulevard (route 702) east to Essex.
Turn left (northeast) onto Eastern Boulevard (route 150).
Turn right on Carroll Island Road.
Turn right onto Bowleys Quarters Road.
Marina is on the left, near the Bowleys Quarters Fire Department.
Notes: Open Monday through Saturday 0900-1700. Closed
Sunday. Launch fee $5 Monday through Friday, $8 on
Saturday. Access to Seneca Creek.
Boating Center of Baltimore
Location: 2015 Turkey Point Road, Essex, Baltimore County ADC map 38 B12
Phone: 410-687-2000
Date: August 10, 2002
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 695 counterclockwise to exit 36,
Southeast Boulevard (route 702) to Essex.
Stay on Southeast Boulevard heading southeast.
After passing Brehms Lane, turn left on Turkey Point Road. This
turn occurs before Southeast Boulevard merges with Back River Neck Road.
The Boating Center is on the right. Boat ramp is on the left end
of the marina.
Notes: Open 0900-1700, 7 days a week. $10 to use boat ramp.
Pay at office. Gates locked after hours. Soda machine
available. 35 minutes from Arbutus. Access to Sue Creek.
Bowerman’s Marina
Location: 11045 Bowerman Road, White Marsh, Baltimore County ADC map 30
E10
Phone: 410-335-8756
Date: July 26, 2002
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 95 northeast through the Fort McHenry
Tunnel.
Take exit 67A to White Marsh Boulevard (route 43) southeast.
Turn right (northeast) on Pulaski Highway (route 40).
Turn right (southeast) Allender Road. This will turn into Loreley
Beach Road.
At the split, take Bowerman Road left.
Turn right on a dirt road marked with a “Bowerman’s Marina” sign.
Follow to end.
Notes: According to Jean Bowerman (spoken to on July 29, 2002), if
nobody is in the office, place $3 in an envelope with “George Bowerman”
written on the outside. Should also write auto information, date,
time, and that the fee is for a kayak launch. Be sure to bring an
envelope and pen since these did not appear to be available in the
office. No boat ramp. Access to Bird River.
Broening Park
Location: Cherry Hill, Baltimore County ADC map 43 B6
Date: October 17, 1999
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 695 east (counterclockwise).
Take exit 7 to the Baltimore Washington Parkway (highway 295) north.
After passing the Harbor Tunnel Thruway (highway 895), take the
Waterview Avenue exit right (southeast). Follow to end.
Launch point is just beyond the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
To return on 295 south, take Waterview Avenue west and turn left on
Annapolis Road (route 648). This is the first left after crossing
over highway 295.
Take the first left. There is no sign for this turn but it is the
on-ramp to highway 295 south.
Notes: Broening Park is about 17 minutes from Fort Meade. No
restrooms. Closest public restroom is next to the Baltimore
Rowing and Water Resource Center/Aquatics Division at 3301 Waterview
Avenue. Access to Middle Branch and the Patapsco River. The
area under highway 395 is very shallow. Gwynns Falls is extremely
polluted. Just southeast of the Harbor Hospital, the (Little)
Patapsco River that flows through Patapsco State Park and separates
Baltimore and Anne Arundel County enters into the (Big) Patapsco
River. If paddling up the (Little) Patapsco River, beware of
fishing lines and crab net lines that hang from Hanover Street, Potee
Street, and Patapsco Avenue. Also watch for fishing lines from
the shore. Paddling up the (Little) Patapsco River is scenic and
natural although paddling gets difficult once crossing under highway
695 due to water depth (too shallow).
Canton Waterfront Park
Location: Inner Harbor, Baltimore County ADC map 43 J2
Date: June 2002
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 95 northeast.
Before reaching the For McHenry Tunnel tunnel, get in rightmost lane.
Immediate after crossing tunnel, take exit 56 to Keith Avenue right
(west).
Turn right (north) on Clinton Street.
Turn left (west) on Boston Street.
Turn left on S. East Avenue at the Korean War Veteran’s Memorial.
Notes: Boat ramp available. Restrooms near boat ramp but were
locked as of June 2002. I've NEVER seen them open. 20
minutes from Arbutus. Access to Inner Harbor and Fort McHenry.
Coxs Point Park
Location: Essex, Baltimore County ADC map 37 D13
Date: June 2002
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 695 counterclockwise (east) to exit 38.
Turn right (east) on Eastern Avenue (route 150).
Turn right (southeast) on Riverside Drive. This intersection
appears at Mace Avenue. Follow Riverside Drive to the end.
Notes: Boat ramp available. Launch from the west side of the
peninsula. Ramp opens at 0600 year round. Closes at 1730
November through March. Closes at 2000 April, May, September, and
October. Closes at 2030 June, July, and August. Public
restrooms available. About 30 minutes from Arbutus. Access
to Back River.
Dundee Creek Marina at Gunpowder Falls State Park
Location: Chase, Gunpowder Falls State Park, Baltimore County ADC map
38 K2
Phone: 410-335-9704
Date: August 1, 2006
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 95 northeast through the Fort McHenry
Tunnel.
Take exit 67A to White Marsh Boulevard (route 43) southeast.
Turn right (northeast) on Pulaski Highway (route 40).
Turn right (southeast) on Ebenezer Road. After crossing over the
railroad tracks, Ebenezer Road turns into Quarters Road. Follow
Quarters Road. Quarters Road then turns into Graces Quarters
Road. Follow Graces Quarters Road south.
Turn right at Dundee Creek Marina.
Notes: $10 launch fee but if you park on the right and launch on the
sandy/muddy area with the "car top boat launch" sign, you can avoid the fee. Restrooms
available. Open Monday through Thursday 0600 to sunset, Friday
through Sunday 0600 to 2200. 43 minute drive from Arbutus.
Access to Dundee Creek. See Aberdeen Proving Ground warning.
Fort Armistead Park
Location: Baltimore, Anne Arundel County ADC map 4 D7
Date: July 4, 2002
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 695 east (counterclockwise).
Take exit 1 to Hawkins Point Road left (east).
Take the right exit to Fort Armistead Road.
Follow Fort Armistead Road until it ends at Fort Armistead Park.
Notes: No restrooms. Stay at least 50 meters from the shore to
avoid lines from fishermen. 18 minutes from Arbutus. Access
to Patapsco River.
Gunpowder River
Location: Gunpowder Falls State Park, Hammerman Area, Baltimore County
ADC map 39 B4
Date: May 29, 2004
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 95 northeast through the Fort McHenry
Tunnel.
Take exit 67A to White Marsh Boulevard (route 43) east.
Turn right (northeast) on Pulaski Highway (route 40).
Turn right (southeast) on Ebenezer Road.
After crossing over the railroad tracks, Ebenezer Road turns into
Quarters Road. Turn left at Gunpowder Falls State Park, Hammerman
Area.
Turn right at road marked with boat ramp icon sign and sign that reads "cabin 2."
Notes: $3 per person entrance fee. Be careful driving down the road at the sign that reads "cabin 2" since it is only wide enough for one car but cars can drive either direction. As far as I know, you can park in the lot near the ramp but if you have a trailer, you should probably park in the lot uphill. From the boat ramp, there is a trail that begins with some scrap concrete on the north side of the parking lot. Follow this trail to the open grassy area with the picnic tables. Turn right (east) and walk about 150 meters to the restrooms. Access to Gunpowder River and Cunninghill Cove. About 30 minutes from Arbutus. The
Hammerman Area also has a place called Ultimate Watersports
that has kayak and windsurfing lessons/rentals. You have to drive to the far end of the park to get to Ultimate Watersports. This a very popular place in the summer. Might want to get there early if you plan to launch from here. It is about 250 meters from the parking lot to the water in this area. Launch from beach 4 or 5, maybe 3. Beach 1 and 2 are for swimming. The park is open 0800 to sunset. See Aberdeen Proving Ground warning.
Hart-Miller Island State Park
This island offers kayak camping. Deciding where to launch is the biggest concern. It can be accessed from Rocky Point Park, North Point State Park, or Rudy's Marina, all listed on this page. Not sure which offer overnight parking. Mailing address:
Hart-Miller Island State Park
c/o Gunpowder Falls State Park
2813 Jerusalem Rd.
P.O. Box 480
Kingsville, MD 21087
Phone: 410-592-2897.
As of May 2005,
Sites: 22 tent sites, each with a picnic table, latern post, and campfire grill.
Reservations: None. First come, first served.
Cost: $6.00
Restrooms: Yes
Drinking water: No
Mainland parking: No information, suggested I contact North Point State Park.
Open May 1 to September 30.
Hawthorne Park
Location: Middle River, Baltimore County ADC map 37 H7
Date: June 2002
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 695 counterclockwise (east) to exit 36,
Southeast Boulevard (route 702) east to Essex.
Turn left (northeast) onto Eastern Boulevard (route 150).
Turn right on Kingston Road (second right after crossing over water;
just before McDonald’s).
Turn right onto Midthorn Road.
This will end at Hawthorne Park.
There will be a fishing pier about 75 meters from the road.
Launch from side of pier.
Notes: No ramp but access to Middle River. 35 minute drive from
Arbutus. No restrooms. Closest one is at McDonald’s.
Boat ramps seen from water at Driftwood Inn,
Markey’s, and Sunset Harbor Marina. Not sure if
these places have are open to the public.
Inverness Waterfront Park (West Inverness Park)
Location: Dundalk, Baltimore County ADC map 44 K6
Date: August 18, 2002
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 695 east across Francis Scott Key
Memorial Bridge to exit 44, Broening Highway left (northwest).
When Broening Highway splits, stay on the right side, Belclare Road.
Turn left (northwest) at Dundalk Avenue.
Turn right onto Holabird Avenue. Holabird Avenue will eventually
turn into Wise Avenue. Pass Merritt Boulevard.
Just after passing CVS on the right, turn right on Lynch Road.
Take the first left on Kavanagh Road.
After about 0.6 miles, turn right on Jasmine Road. Sandy Plains
Elementary School will be on the left. Do not turn into Inverton
Road just yet.
Take the second right on Inverton Road and follow to end.
Notes: Restroom available. Ramp open 0600 year round.
Closes at 1730 November through March. Closes at 2000 April, May,
September, and October. Closes at 2030 June, July, and
August. 32 minutes from Arbutus. Access to Lynch Cove and
Bear Creek. Stouten's Marina on Bear Creek sells sodas, ice cream, and snowballs.
Maryland Marina
Location: 3501 Red Rose Farm Road, Middle River, Baltimore County ADC
map 38 D7
Phone: 410-335-8722
Date: Unexplored. Phone recon conducted August 2002.
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 695 counterclockwise (east) to exit 36,
Southeast Boulevard (route 702) east to Essex.
Turn left (northeast) onto Eastern Boulevard (route 150).
Turn right on Carroll Island Road.
Turn right onto Bowleys Quarters Road.
Turn right on Red Rose Farm Road at church.
Marina is on the right.
Notes: Open weekdays 0830-1700, Saturday 0900-1700, and Sunday
1000-1700. $8 launch fee. Access to Frog Mortar Creek.
Merritt Point Park
Location: Dundalk, Baltimore County ADC map 44 H7
Date: April 2005
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 695 east across Francis Scott Key
Memorial Bridge to exit 44, Broening Highway left (northwest).
When Broening Highway splits, stay on the right side, Belclare Road.
Turn left (northwest) at Dundalk Avenue.
Turn right on South Center Place. This street may not appear on maps.
At the end of South Center Place, turn right then make an immediate left onto Dunmanway. This will occur in a very short distance.
Follow Dunmanway to the end.
Notes: The park ramp is open at 0600 year round. It closes at
1730 November through March, 2000 in April, May, September, and
October, and 2030 in June, July, and August. No fee to enter
park. Portable toilet next to ramp. Park provides access to
Bullneck Creek and Bear Creek. Total driving time is about 30
minutes from Arbutus. Stouten's Marina on Bear Creek sells sodas, ice cream, and snowballs.
North Point State Park
Location: Near Edgemere. Baltimore County ADC map 46 K9
Phone: 410-477-0757 (office) or 410-592-2897 (headquarters)
Date: June 18, 2006.
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 counterclockwise (east) to exit 43 (Bethlehem Boulevard/Sparrows Point).
Turn left at Bethlehem Boulevard (route 158). This will be the first blinking light.
Follow Bethlehem Boulevard (route 158) east. Cross North Point Boulevard.
Veer right onto North Point Road (route 20).
Follow route 20 through Edgemere for 1.9 miles.
At the "North Point State Park" sign, turn left onto Bay Shore Road.
Enter the park and follow Bay Shore Road to the end.
The road ends at parking lot B. But instead of entering parking lot B, turn right and head towards the Takos Visitor Center. Ignore the signs that say "do not enter." The park staff I spoke to don't mind if you just go there to unload or load your boat. The road will end at the beach but as of June 18, 2006, you can only get to a gate at the visitor center. Unload your boat then park in parking lot B.
Notes: Three dollar entrance fee for Maryland residents. Open 0800 to sunset. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. 30 minutes from Arbutus. Porta-johns. No boat ramp. Many picnic tables. Just to the south of the beach is a long pier/penninsula. Stay well away from this since it is likely to have many fishermen with lines in the water.
Regular restrooms and drinking fountain at visitor center though they might be closed and turned off in the off-season. If this is the case, there is a water refill station near parking lot B. Look for the handicapped parking area. Near this there is a wheelchair ramp. Between the end of the ramp and the observation tower is a pinic table and a water refill station.
This is a great place to launch if you like lighthouses. There are 4 lighthouses, all looking very unlike the other. All of these can be seen in a single day if you are ambitious:
Lower Range Rear Light (Craighill Channel Range - Rear): To the northeast, about 1.75 miles away. On the southwest side of Pleasure Island.
Lower Range Front Light (Craighill Channel Range - Front): To the southeast, in the Chesapeake bay, about 2.5 miles away
Upper Range Front Light (Craighill Channel Upper Range - Front): To the southwest, about 2 miles away. Won't be visible until you get past Fort Howard Park
Upper Range Rear Light (Craighill Channel Upper Range - Rear): Northwest of Upper Range Front Light, about 4.5 miles away (from North Point State Park), in Old Road Bay
Note that these are just rough estimates.
If you prefer a more natural, calm water area, try paddling in Shallow Creek. Just don't do so at low tide. There's a reason it has that name. Supposedly, there is a canoe launch at the north end of Shallow Creek though I suspect this isn't open to the public.
Consider a combination kayak/bicycling/hiking day at North Point State Park. In addition to kayaking, bring a bicycle and bike to the various trails which connect to Bay Shore Road in the park. According to one source, there are about 4 miles of trails. There are trail maps though I was unable to find any in October. The visitors center probably has some but they were closed for the off-season. Couldn't find any on-line either.
After a long day, try out the Bay Shore Bar and Grille which is just outside the park, on the right as you leave. Let me know how you like it. Never been there myself but you can't beat the location after a hard day of paddling.
For emergencies, call the ranger at 1-800-825-PARK (24 hours a day). Mailing address:
North Point State Park
c/o Gunpowder Falls State Park
2813 Jerusalem Road
P.O. Box 480
Kingsville, Maryland 21087
or
North Point State Park
P.O. Box 176
Fort Howard, Maryland 21052
For more information, see Sherpa Guides and scroll down to "North Point State Park."
Pleasure Island
This island offers kayak camping. It is located just a short distance from Hart-Miller Island which also offers kayak camping. Deciding where to launch is the biggest concern. It can be accessed from Rocky Point Park, North Point State Park, or Rudy's Marina, all listed on this page. Not sure which offer overnight parking. As of May 2005, there are 4 tent sites. See Hart-Miller Island State Park on this page for more information.
Porter’s Seneca Park
Location: 918 Seneca Park Road, Middle River, Baltimore County ADC map
38 D6
Phone: 410-335-6563
Date: Unexplored. Phone recon conducted August 2002.
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 695 counterclockwise (east) to exit 36,
Southeast Boulevard (route 702) east to Essex.
Turn left (northeast) onto Eastern Boulevard (route 150).
Turn right on Carroll Island Road.
Turn right on Seneca Park Road before crossing railroad tracks.
Marina is on the right.
Notes: Open daily 0900-1700. $7 launch fee. Access to
Seneca Creek.
Rocky Point Park
Location: Baltimore County ADC map 46 C7
Date: May 2002.
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 695 counterclockwise to exit 36,
Southeast Boulevard (route 702) to Essex.
Stay on Southeast Boulevard heading southeast. This will merge
with Back River Neck Road.
Turn left on Barrison Point Road.
Turn right on Rocky Point Road. Stay on Rocky Point Road to its
end at Rocky Point Park.
Notes: The park ramp is open at 0600 year round. It closes at
1730 in November and March, 2000 in April, May, September, and October,
and 2030 in June, July, and August. $7 per person entrance
fee. Total driving time is about 40 minutes from Arbutus.
Access to Back River and Hawk Cove. Also access to Pleasure
Island and Hart Miller Island. The water can get rough in
this area.
Rudy's Marina
Location: 4309 Shore Road, Sparrows Point 21219, Baltimore County ADC
map 45 F5
Phone: 410-477-3276
Date: October 14, 2002
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 695 counterclockwise (east) to exit
43. This is the Bethlehem Boulevard (route 158) towards Peninsula
Expressway (route 157) Sparrows Point exit.
At the end of the offramp, make a left onto Bethlehem Boulevard (route
158). Note that this road may not be marked.
Turn left (north) onto North Point Boulevard (route 151).
Turn right (north) onto Morse Lane.
Turn right onto Wise Avenue. Look for “Rudy’s Marina” sign on
left. Follow Wise Avenue to end.
Turn left onto Shore Road. Rudy’s Marina is on the right.
Notes: Boat ramp. Restroom. Soda machines. $10 launch
fee. If nobody in office or at home, shove money under the
door. One might wish to put the money in an envelope with the
date and car license plate number written on the outside. Access
to Back River. 26 minutes from Arbutus.
Southwest Area Park
Location: Cherry Hill, Baltimore County ADC map 43 A9
Date: September 8, 2002
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take
exit 10 to Washington Boulevard (route 1, alternate) north.
Turn right (east) at Lansdowne Boulevard. This will eventually
turn into Daisy Avenue.
Turn right (south) onto Annapolis Road (route 648).
Turn left onto Georgia Avenue. Look for the Baltimore Highlands
Elementary School.
Follow Georgia Avenue past Baltimore Street into Southwest Area
Park. Cross over railroad tracks.
At the end of the road, turn left*, then make the first right.
Follow to end.
Notes: Boat ramp, built around 2001. Closest restroom is in
park. To get to restroom, follow directions above but instead of
making the first right (see *), continue straight. Restrooms are
on the right. Park is open 0900-1900 daily. Access to the
(Little) Patapsco River which flows through Patapsco State Park and
separates Baltimore and Anne Arundel County enters into the (Big)
Patapsco River. If paddling down the (Little) Patapsco River,
beware of fishing lines and crab net lines that hang from Hanover
Street, Potee Street, and Patapsco Avenue. Also watch for fishing
lines from the shore. Paddling up the (Little) Patapsco River is
scenic and natural although paddling gets difficult once crossing under
highway 695 due to water depth (too shallow).
Tradewinds Marina
Location: 412 Armstrong Road, Middle River, Baltimore County ADC map 38
D6
Phone: 410-335-7000
Date: Unexplored. Phone recon conducted August 2002.
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 695 counterclockwise (east) to exit 36,
Southeast Boulevard (route 702) east to Essex.
Turn left (northeast) onto Eastern Boulevard (route 150).
Turn right on Carroll Island Road.
Turn right onto Bowleys Quarters Road.
Turn right on Edwards Lane.
First left onto Armstrong Road.
Marina is on the left.
Notes: Open weekdays 0830-1700, Saturday 0900-1700, and Sunday
1000-1700. $8 parking fee. Access to Frog Mortar Creek.
Turners Station Park
Location: Dundalk, Baltimore County ADC map 44 H9
Date: May 2002
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 695 east across Francis Scott Key
Memorial Bridge to exit 44, Broening Highway left (northwest).
When Broening Highway splits, stay on the right side, Belclare Road.
Turn right (southeast) at Dundalk Avenue.
At the split, veer right onto Main Street.
Go left (east) onto Avon Beach Road.
Turn right onto Avondale.
Make the first left onto Rayme Drive and follow to end.
Notes: 25 minute drive from Arbutus. The park ramp is open at
0600 year round. It closes at 1730 November through March, 2000
in April, May, September, and October, and 2030 in June, July, and
August. No fee to enter park. Portable toilet
available. Park provides access to Peach Orchard Creek and Bear
Creek. Stouten's Marina on Bear Creek sells sodas, ice cream, and snowballs.
Watersedge Beach
Location: Dundalk, Baltimore County ADC map 44 K8
Date: April 18, 2004
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 695 east across Francis Scott Key
Memorial Bridge to exit 44, Broening Highway left (northwest).
When Broening Highway splits, stay on the right side, Belclare Road.
Turn right (southeast) at Dundalk Avenue. At the split, veer left
to remain on Dundalk Avenue.
Follow almost to the end, turning left onto Bullneck Road.
On the left, by the basketball court and at the Longpoint Road intersection, is a parking lot for Watersedge
Beach
Notes: Restroom and water fountain at park available but may not be
working. I've never seen the fountain work or the restrooms unlocked. No boat ramp. Small beach area to launch
kayak. Access to Bear Creek. To the best of my knowledge, one can launch here for a night paddle. There are no signs that indicate otherwise. Parking for about 12 either near the launch or near the basketball court parking. There is a place called "The Beach House" on the southeast side of the Wise Avenue bridge at Baltimore County ADC map 45 C5 on Waterview Road. It either either a bar or a restaurant. I could not find anything about it on-line. One can pull up kayaks under the bridge and walk to the place. Stouten's Marina on Bear Creek sells sodas, ice cream, and snowballs.
Aberdeen Proving Grounds Restricted Water Zones
Be sure to stay off Aberdeen Proving Ground lands. Much of this area has live unexploded munitions. In some areas, not only must you stay off the land, but you must stay well away from it at ALL times. Don't pass between the buoys with the danger markings and the land. Doing so may get you a $500 fine.
Many (but not all) of the waters on the Gunpowder River and Bush River along with waters near Pooles Island, Taylor Island, Carroll Island, and Spesuite Island are restricted. This means they are normally closed to the public from 0730 to 1700 during the week. When these waters are closed during weekends or holidays, notifications are made via telephone to various yacht clubs, boatyards, marinas, and interested organizations and agencies. Look for a pamphlet titled "Boater's Guide to Restricted Water Zone" by the Aberdeen Proving Ground. This contains a map showing the restricted and off limit areas.
Caroline
County Launch Sites
G. Daniel Crouse Memorial Park
Location: Denton, Caroline County ADC map 12 D9
Phone:
Date: July 2, 2006
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only.
Turn left (east) onto Queen Anne Highway (route 404). Queen Anne Highway will become Shore Highway.
Veer right onto Meeting House Road (route 404 business). Cross over the Choptank River into Denton. Immediately after crossing the bridge, there will be an area to make a U-turn that will enable you to head west on Gay Street.
Shortly after making the U-turn, turn right into the park.
Notes: Boat ramp. Restroom. Access to Choptank River. Parking for about 25 vehicles. Open dawn to dusk.
Ganeys Wharf Park
Location: Caroline County ADC map 14 C11
Phone:
Date: June 17, 2006
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only.
Turn left (east) onto Queen Anne Highway (route 404). Queen Anne Highway will become Shore Highway. Follow it through Denton. Route 404 and route 313 will merge and head south.
After crossing Watts Creek, turn right (southwest) on Harmony Road (route 16). Follow for about 5 miles.
Turn right (west) on Wilkens Branch Road. Follow for 0.9 miles to end.
Turn right (north) on Point Road. Follow for 0.2 miles.
Turn left (west) on Ivans Road. Follow for 0.8 miles to end.
Turn right on Ganeys Wharf Road. Follow for 0.8 miles to end.
Notes: Boat ramp, porta-john, and picnic area. Access to Choptank River. Parking for about 17 vehicles. Closed dusk to dawn.
Greensboro Boat Ramp
Location: Greensboro, Caroline County ADC map 8 J7
Phone:
Date: June 17, 2006
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only.
Turn left (east) onto Queen Anne Highway (route 404).
After crossing over Tuckahoe Creek, turn left (north) onto Ridgely
Road (route 480).
In Greensboro, turn right onto Sunset Avenue East (route 314).
Before crossing over the Choptank River, turn right (south) into the Greensboro Carnival Ground. No street sign name. Follow to end.
Notes: Boat ramp. Restroom near basketball court and porta-john near ramp. Access to Choptank River. Parking for about 18 vehicles. Big, grasy area great for throwing the frizbee.
Hillsboro
Location: Hillsboro, Queen Anne’s County ADC map 28 E13 or Caroline County ADC map 10 H4
Phone:
Date: June 17, 2006
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only.
Turn left (east) onto Queen Anne Highway (route 404).
After crossing over Tuckahoe Creek, turn right (south) onto Ridgely
Road (route 480).
Make the next right onto Main Street (may also be Hillsboro Road, route
404 alternate).
Before crossing back over Tuckahoe Creek, turn left into a small
parking lot at the "Civil War Trails" sign.
Notes: Boat ramp. No restroom. Access to Tuckahoe Creek. Parking for about 8 vehicles. If locking up boat or bicycle, consider securing to the "Frederick Douglass" sign.
Martinak State Park
Location: 137 Deep Shore Road, Denton, Maryland 21629, Caroline County ADC map 15 C1
Phone: 410-820-1668 (park office, Monday through Friday), 1-800-825-PARK (after hours for emergency). For campground reservations, call 1-888-432-2267
Date: June 17, 2006
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only.
Turn left (east) onto Queen Anne Highway (route 404). Queen Anne Highway will become Shore Highway. Follow it through Denton. Route 404 and route 313 will merge and head south.
After passing the Denton Plaza Shopping Center, turn right (west) onto Deep Shore Road.
The entrance to the park will be on the left (south side). Enter the park.
The boat ramp will be on the left (west side) near the end of the road.
Notes: Restroom, soda machine, and phone. Access to Watts Creek and Choptank River. Parking for about 50 vehicles.
Campground info: Camp loop A contains most of the non-electric tent sites. Campsites are shaded and sheltered don't expect any breezes. As of June 2006, non-electric sites are $20 per night, electric sites are $25 per night, and cabins are $50 per night. Canoes can be rented for $15 for a half day and $20 for a full day. See camp host at site #30 in the B loop for canoe rental. Showers. Self service firewood is available 1500-2100 on Fridays and Saturdays. The woodshed is in the B loop across from the sign at the beginning of the loop. One small crate of wood costs $3. Some short hiking trails exist in the park. Each campsite has a trash can. Unlike some other state parks, this campsite is not gated so you can show up at any time.
Area info: At Legion Road and route 404/313 is the Denton Plaza Shopping Center. The following restaurants exist as of June 2006: China House, Snappy's Bar and Grille, Collosseum Ristorante, and ice cream shop (closed Saturday), and Subway. Across from the shopping center is a Food Lion and Rite Aid.
Marshyhope Creek Greenway
Location: Federalsburg, Caroline County ADC map 26 D6
Phone: 410-754-8173
Date: July 3, 2006
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only.
In Easton, turn left (east) on Dover Road (route 331).
After the town of Preston, veer left (southeast) on Preston Road (route 318).
In Federalsburg, route 318 will veer right (south). Instead, continue straight on Bloomingdale Avenue (route 315). This will turn into Main Street (route 308).
Turn right (east) on Marina Road and follow to end. If you come to Federalsburg Highway (route 313), you've gone too far.
Notes: Two boat ramps. Porta-john. Access to Marshyhope Creek. Parking for about 25 vehicles. Picnic area, volleyball court, and soccer field.
Tuckahoe State Park
Location: Queen Anne’s County ADC map 28 E3
Phone: 410-820-1668
Date: December 28, 2005
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only.
Turn left (east) onto Queen Anne Highway (route 404).
After crossing over Tuckahoe Creek, turn left (north) onto Ridgely Road
(route 480).
Make the next left (north) onto Eveland Road.
At the end of Eveland Road, turn left (east) onto Crouse Mill Road.
Across from the lake (which is on the right), there will be an area to
park on the left just before crossing over Tuckahoe Creek. One
can carry a kayak to the creek from this lot and paddle south.
To access the boat ramp at the lake, continue driving and stay on the
right at the split in the road. The boat ramp area will be on the
right on the northwest side of the lake.
Notes: The first launch area provides access to Tuckahoe Creek south of
the lake. It is 5.4 miles from this launch site to the Hillsboro
boat ramp. One cannot paddle to the lake from here due to a
spillway. The second launch area provides access to the lake and
the part of Tuckahoe Creek north of the lake. Paddling on
Tuckahoe Creek can be difficult during drought. Neither launch
site has a restroom but there should be one on the east side of the
lake near the boat rental house.
Cecil County
Launch Sites
Note that the north end of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries is a good place to paddle late in the summer. Though the water may be brackish, the low salinity will result in few, if any jellyfish. In the winter, the low salt content is a problem for a different reason...the water will freeze up easily.
Rogues Harbor
Location: Elk Neck State Park, Cecil County ADC map 19 J8
Date: February 7, 2004
Phone:
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 95 northeast through the Fort McHenry
Tunnel.
At exit 100, take North East Road (route 272) south towards North
East. Route 272 will turn into Turkey Point Road. Drive
through the town of North East, then into Elk Neck State Park.
At the sign which reads “Rogues Harbor Boating Facility” turn left and
follow to end.
Notes: Multiple boat ramps. Restroom. $10 launch fee for Maryland residents, though this fee might be waived if you are camping at Elk Neck State Park. 75
minutes from Arbutus. Access to the Elk River on the east side of the Elk Neck State Park peninsula. If camping with a large group, request the group camp site on the Sassafras loop.
Northeast River Area
Location: Elk Neck State Park, Cecil County ADC map 19 J3
Date: September 25, 2005
Phone:
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and
highway 95 meet, take highway 95 northeast through the Fort McHenry
Tunnel.
At exit 100, take North East Road (route 272) south towards North
East. Route 272 will turn into Turkey Point Road. Drive
through the town of North East, then into Elk Neck State Park.
At the sign which reads "N.E. River Area" turn right and follow to end.
Notes: No boat ramp. Large parking lot for about 80 vehicles. Just to the left of the recycled tire playground is a blocked road which leads to a beach. 78 paces from the parking lot to the water via this blocked road so you may wish to bring a kayak cart. Three dollar entrance fee for Maryland residents unless you have are camping at Elk Neck State Park. Restroom. Soda machine. Snack bar open seasonally. 80 minutes from Arbutus. Access to the Chesapeake Bay and the west side of the Elk Neck State Park peninsula.
Calvert
County Launch Sites
Hall Creek Natural Resources Management Area
This launch site is the closest site I known of to Hall Creek, which is quite scenic and natural. I've been told this area also has quite a few trails but since it is primarily a hunting area and not a hiking area, I suspect these trails are not particularly interesting or scenic. It does appear, however, that one of these trails leads to a small public beach about 100 meters south of the launch site. This area began operating as a ferry in 1788. A Calvert County law guarantees public access.
Location: Dunkirk, Calvert County. See Prince George's County ADC map 35 A10.
Phone: 1-800-784-5380
Date: July 23, 2005
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south.
Take exit 7 to Crain Highway North (route 3) southwest. Route 3
will eventually turn into Crain Highway South (route 301).
Turn left (east) at Pennsylvania Avenue (route 4, south exit).
In the town of Dunkirk, turn right on Ferry Landing Road (route 525). Follow to the end.
Notes: One hour from Arbutus. No restrooms. The closest restroom is at the British Petroleum (BP) gas station on the left (east) side of route 4 just before Ferry Landing Road. This hunting area has a small parking area which connects to a dirt walking road. Be sure to wear insect repellent if wearing open toed shoes or shorts. I've caught a deer tick in this area. Walk on this road pulling your boat on a wheeled cart. Since the dirt road winds a bit from the entrance, it may be easiest to lift a heavy boat over the metal gate and have another person run to the other side of the gate, then pull the boat over. The road will branch to the right. Stay on the main part. A short distance ahead, it will again branch to the right. This branch will clearly head downhill. You should be able to see the water from the split in the road. Follow this branch downhill and launch at the bottom where it meets the Patuxent River. One quarter mile from the parking lot to the water. The dirt road may be bumpy. Paddle south (left) for a mile, then turn left (east) into Hall Creek Marsh which meanders east for at least 3 miles before fallen trees may make continuing difficult. There is a good chance you will see bald eagles in this area. Upon returning, look for the stumps in the water from where a pier used to be. Where you launched is just south of this.
Hallowing Point
Location: Calvert County ADC map 8 A4
Phone:
Date: May 29, 2006
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south.
Take exit 7 to Crain Highway North (route 3) southwest. Route 3 will eventually turn into Crain Highway South (route 301).
Option A: Generally faster and on a major road.
Route 301 will merge with route 5 and remain as one for about 2.25 miles.
Just after crossing over Mattawoman Creek, route 301 and route 5 (Mattawoman Beantown Road) will split. Veer left to follow route 5.
After 3 miles, you'll come to Beantown. Here, you'll need to turn left (southeast) to stay on route 5 which is now Leonardtown Road. Follow for 8.5 miles.
Turn left (east) on Prince Frederick Road (route 231). Cross the Patuxent River Bridge. Prince Frederick Road becomes Hallowing Point Road.
Make the first right onto Hallowing Lane.
Option B: Generally slower with some 30 mph speed limits through small towns. More scenic and easier to follow.
Turn left (southeast) on Brandywine Road (route 381). This will turn into Aquasco Road. Follow to the end.
Turn left (southeast) on Prince Frederick Road (route 231). Cross the Patuxent River Bridge. Prince Frederick Road becomes Hallowing Point Road.
Make the first right onto Hallowing Lane.
Notes: Two boat ramps. Parking for about 20 vehicles. Porta-john. Launch kayak from beach area near ramp. Access to the Patuxent River. Facing the river, left (south) is downstream while right (north) is upstream. One hour and 20 minutes from Elkridge.
Consider the following kayak car shuttle trip done by Brian and me on May 29, 2006:
Drive to Hallowing Point with two vehicles, at least one capable of carrying two kayaks.
Leave one vehicle at the parking lot and load both boats on one vehicle. Be sure to pack personal floatation devices (PFDs), paddles, and drinking water.
Drive to Clyde Watson Boating Area (Magruders Ferry).
Directions: Cross back over the Patuxent River Bridge (west) on Prince Frederick Road (route 231).
Turn right (north) on Brandywine Road (route 381). This will turn into Aquasco Road.
Turn right (northeast) on to Croom Road (route 382).
Turn right (east) onto Magruders Ferry Road.
Turn right at the "Clyde Watson Boating Area" sign.
Paddle downstream. Consider exploring tributaries along the way.
Just after the Patuxent River Bridge, paddle to the boat ramps on the east. This is the take out point.
The entire trip without exploring tributaries is 10 miles.
Carroll County Launch Sites
Double Pipe Creek Park
Location: Town of Detour. Carroll County ADC map 8 F12 or Frederick County ADC map 9 G11
Date: June 24, 2007
Phone:
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 north (clockwise) to exit 16, highway 70 west. (to Frederick).
Take exit 62 heading north on Green Valley Road (route 75). Follow for 11.3 miles.
Veer left (northwest) onto Keymar Road. Follow for 2.5 miles.
Turn left (west) onto Good Intent Road. Follow for 0.9 miles to Ladiesburg.
Turn right (northeast) onto Woodsboro Pike (route 194). Follow for 0.2 miles.
Turn left (northwest) on Haughs Church Road. Follow for 2.3 miles to the end.
Turn right (east) on Rocky Ridge Road (route 77). Follow for 1.2 miles. Parking will be on the right after the bridge.
Notes: 70 minutes from Hanover. Extremely shallow. Only attempt to paddle after a very heavy rain. Even then, you're probably better off launching at Millers Bridge, just 1.2 miles away. Parking for 12 vehicles. Steps lead down to the water. Access to Double Pipe Creek. 1.2 miles downstream, the creek connects to the Monocacy River. No boat ramp or porta-john.
Charles County Launch Sites
Benedict
Location: Charles County ADC map 21 K9
Phone:
Date: May 29, 2006
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south.
Take exit 7 to Crain Highway North (route 3) southwest. Route 3 will eventually turn into Crain Highway South (route 301).
Option A: Generally faster and on a major road.
Route 301 will merge with route 5 and remain as one for about 2.25 miles.
Just after crossing over Mattawoman Creek, route 301 and route 5 (Mattawoman Beantown Road) will split. Veer left to follow route 5.
After 3 miles, you'll come to Beantown. Here, you'll need to turn left (southeast) to stay on route 5 which is now Leonardtown Road. Follow for 8.5 miles.
Turn left (east) on Prince Frederick Road (route 231).
Turn right (southeast) on Benedict Avenue. Ramp is located at the end of the road on the left.
Option B: Generally slower with some 30 mph speed limits through small towns. More scenic and easier to follow.
Turn left (southeast) on Brandywine Road (route 381). This will turn into Aquasco Road. Follow to the end.
Turn left (southeast) on Prince Frederick Road (route 231).
Turn right (southeast) on Benedict Avenue. Ramp is located at the end of the road on the left.
Notes: Paved double ramp. Parking for about 10 vehicles. Porta-john. Five dollar launch fee. Use drop box. This site is poorly maintained but suitable for a kayak launch. One hour and 15 minute drive from Elkridge. Access to the Patuxent River. Facing the river, right (south) is downstream while left (north) is upstream. To avoid the fee, drive about 5 minutes to launch at Hallowing Point.
Chapel Point State Park
Location: Charles County ADC map 25 G4
Phone:
Date: August 19, 2006
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south.
Take exit 7 to Crain Highway North (route 3) southwest. Route 3 will eventually turn into Crain Highway South (route 301).
In the town of La Plata, turn right (west) on Port Tobacco Road (route 6).
In the town of Port Tobacco, veer left (south) onto Chapel Point Road.
Turn right (west) on Pices Lane. Follow to end.
Notes: Porta-john. Long dirt road on Pices Lane. Parking for about 12 vehicles in two dirt lots. No paved ramp. May be hard to find if landing. Access to Port Tobacco River.
Friendship Landing
Location: Charles County ADC map 23 J24
Phone:
Date: August 19, 2006
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south.
Take exit 7 to Crain Highway North (route 3) southwest. Route 3 will eventually turn into Crain Highway South (route 301).
In the town of La Plata, turn right (west) on Port Tobacco Road (route 6).
After crossing the bridge over Ward Run, turn left (south) onto Durham Church Road. Continuing straight, this road will turn into Ironsides Road (route 425).
Turn left (southeast), onto Friendship Landing Road. Follow to end.
Notes: No restroom. Paved ramp. One can launch a kayak from an area to the right of the ramp. Parking for about 16 vehicles. A vehicle without a boat trailer can also park just up the hill on the north side of the road at the lot for Friendship Trail. Access to Nanjemoy Creek and Hill Top Fork. See my trip report on September 22, 2007.
Marshall Hall Boat Launch
Location: End of Marshall Hall Road in Piscataway Park 20607. Charles County ADC map 1 G4
Phone:
Date: May 5, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take the
Baltimore Washington Parkway (highway 295) south to the end at the 6 o'clock position of the Washington D.C. beltway (highway 495).
Head east (counterclockwise) on highway 495 just slightly, following signs for route 210.
Take Indian Head Highway (route 210) south for about 14 miles.
Turn right (north) at Marshall Hall Road (route 227). Follow for 4 miles, to the end. When the road splits, stay on the left (main) side.
Notes: Parking for at least 50 vehicles. Two boat ramps. No restroom. Area can get busy with fishing boat launches. Consider launching at Farmington Landing, which is nearby.
Mattingly Park/Slavins Launch
Location: Indian Head, Maryland 20640. Charles County ADC map 6 H8
Phone:
Date: September 24, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take the
Baltimore Washington Parkway (highway 295) south to the end at the 6 o'clock position of the Washington D.C. beltway (highway 495).
Head east (counterclockwise) on highway 495 just slightly, following signs for route 210.
Take Indian Head Highway (route 210) south. Continue into the town of Indian Head.
Just before entering the U.S. Naval Surface Warfare Center, turn left (south) on Mattingly Avenue and follow to the end.
Notes: One hour and 15 minutes in light traffic. Provides access to Mattawoman Creek. This creek is very scenic and natural as you paddle upstream. Porta-johns, picnic table, and boat ramp available. Parking for about 12 vehicles. See my trip report on September 21, 2007.
Patuxent River Bridge
Location: Charles County ADC map 21 J3
Phone:
Date: April 29, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south.
Take exit 7 to Crain Highway North (route 3) southwest. Route 3 will eventually turn into Crain Highway South (route 301).
Option A: Generally faster and on a major road.
Route 301 will merge with route 5 and remain as one for about 2.25 miles.
Just after crossing over Mattawoman Creek, route 301 and route 5 (Mattawoman Beantown Road) will split. Veer left to follow route 5.
After 3 miles, you'll come to Beantown. Here, you'll need to turn left (southeast) to stay on route 5 which is now Leonardtown Road. Follow for 8.5 miles.
Turn left (east) on Prince Frederick Road (route 231).
Just before coming to the Patuxent River Bridge, pull over on either side of the road.
Option B: Generally slower with some 30 mph speed limits through small towns. More scenic and easier to follow.
Turn left (southeast) on Brandywine Road (route 381). This will turn into Aquasco Road. Follow to the end.
Turn left (southeast) on Prince Frederick Road (route 231).
Just before coming to the Patuxent River Bridge, pull over on either side of the road.
Notes: Launch from beach on south side of bridge. Beware of fishing lines. Parking for about 14 vehicles on the sides of the road. One hour and 15 minute drive from Elkridge. Access to the Patuxent River. Facing the river, right (south) is downstream while left (north) is upstream. No restroom. If needing one, drive about 5 minutes to Hallowing Point.
Port Tobacco Road (route 6)
Location: Charles County ADC map 23 B13
Phone:
Date: September 22, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south.
Take exit 7 to Crain Highway North (route 3) southwest. Route 3 will eventually turn into Crain Highway South (route 301).
In the town of La Plata, turn right (west) on Port Tobacco Road (route 6).
After crossing the bridge over Ward Run, turn left (south) onto Durham Church Road. Continuing straight, this road will turn into Ironsides Road (route 425).
Follow Ironsides Road heading southwest to the end.
At Port Tobacco Road (route 6), turn left (south).
Follow for 1.4 miles to the bridge over Nanjemoy Creek. There is a grassy area on the southeast side of the bridge with room for about 2 vehicles.
Notes: This is just a place off the road, not a formal launch site. Best to launch on the southeast side of the bridge (downstream). Right under the bridge are some mud covered sandbags that are extremely slippery. Trust me, I fell on my ass there. Just a bit downstream of that is a path that leads to a more secure launch area. From here, you can't go very far upstream but you can paddle about 6 miles to Friendship Landing then continue further to explore the much wider section of Nanjemoy Creek. Launching from Port Tobacco Road and paddling downstream is extremely scenic. See my trip report on September 22, 2007.
Purse State Park
Location: Charles County ADC map 22 D11
Phone:
Date: September 23, 2007
From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take the
Baltimore Washington Parkway (highway 295) south to the end at the 6 o'clock position of the Washington D.C. beltway (highway 495).
Head east (counterclockwise) on highway 495 just slightly, following signs for route 210.
Take Indian Head Highway (route 210) south.
Just before reaching Indian Head, turn left (south) on route 225 in Glymont.
Almost immediately, this will end at Hawthorne Road (route 225). Veer left (east) on Hawthorne.
After 1.4 miles, turn right (west) on Chicamuxen Road (route 224).
Route 224 will turn into Riverside Road. Turn right (west) onto Riverside. Follow for 6.5 miles.
Notes: One hour and 35 minutes in light traffic. No restroom. Provides access to the Potomac River, 2.5 miles south of Mallows Bay, where a large ship graveyard resides. There really isn't a park entrance. It is just a dirt parking lot on the east side of the road with room for about 8 vehicles. From there, one can portage your boat a quarter mile on a dirt trail heading west to the river. I HIGHLY recommend you bring a kayak cart. It is then a downhill carry to the river. Not an easy launch by any means. For information about Mallows Bay, see my trip report on September 23, 2007.
Smallwood State Park
This 628 acre park has a marina, boat launching ramps, 2 miles of nature trails, and a campground. Canoes (and kayaks?) can be rented May through September, Wednesday through Sunday at the Sweden Point Marina Concession. Note that this park is not the same as Fort Smallwood Park which is operated by the City of Baltimore.
Location: 2750 Sweden Point Road, Marbury, Maryland 20658. Charles County ADC map 14 D3
Phone: 301-743-7613 (general), 1-888-432-2267 (camping reservations)
Date: September 10, 2004
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south.
Take exit 7 to Crain Highway North (route 3) southwest. Route 3 will eventually turn into Crain Highway South (route 301). Follow towards La Plata.
Turn west on route 225.
Turn left (south) on route 224. The park entrance is ~3 miles on the right.
-OR-
From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take the
Baltimore Washington Parkway (highway 295) south to the end at the 6 o'clock position of the Washington D.C. beltway (highway 495).
Head east (counterclockwise) on highway 495 just slightly, following signs for route 210.
Take Indian Head Highway (route 210) south.
Just before reaching Indian Head, turn left (south) on route 225 in Glymont.
Almost immediately, this will end at Hawthorne Road (route 225). Veer left (east) on Hawthorne.
After 1.4 miles, turn right (west) on Chicamuxen Road (route 224). Follow for 3.5 miles.
The park entrance is on the right.
Notes: One hour and 20 minutes in light traffic. Provides access to Mattawoman Creek. This creek is very scenic and natural as you paddle upstream. Porta-johns, several boat ramps, and parking for more vehicles than you can shake a stick at. Ten dollar launch fee as of September 2007. But no launch fee if you're camping. See my trip report on September 21, 2007.
Dorchester County Launch Sites
Special thanks to Susanita and Norma for helping find many of the launch sites in this county.
Asquith Island
Location: Dorchester County ADC map 42 E1
Date: Unexplored
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. Bridge (Choptank River Bridge). Follow route 50 (approximately 1.6 more miles) until you come to a traffic light just past the Dorchester Square Shopping Center (Center includes Wal Mart and Food City).
You will see a brown sign directing you to the refuge. Turn right at this light onto route 16 West (Gypsy Hill Road/Cambridge Beltway/Church Creek Road). Continue to the town of Church Creek.
Turn left (southeast) on Golden Hill Road (route 335). Continue to the end.
Turn left (east) to remain on Golden Hill Road (now route 336) which will become Lakesville Road then Crapo Road. Follow for 7.7 miles.
Turn right (south) on Asquith Island Road. Follow for 0.7 miles. According to the map, there should be a boat ramp near or on Cannon Road on the right.
Notes: I have yet to explore this area but if a public launch site exists, it will be quite a gem. An oasis that could give one fairly good access to the mouth of Worlds End Creek, 3.5 miles away. From what I've seen and read about this creek, it is quite nice and deserves to be explored by true nature lovers. About 2.5 hours from Hanover.
Beaver Dam Creek, Smithville Bridge
Location: Dorchester County ADC map 27 J5
Date: June 10, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. Bridge (Choptank River Bridge). Follow route 50 (approximately 1.6 more miles) until you come to a traffic light just past the Dorchester Square Shopping Center (Center includes Wal Mart and Food City).
You will see a brown sign directing you to the refuge. Turn right at this light onto route 16 West (Gypsy Hill Road/Cambridge Beltway/Church Creek Road). Follow for 14.5 miles.
Turn left (southeast) onto Smithville Road. If you cross over a big bridge, you've gone too far. Follow Smithville Road for 4.5 miles. Parking on the right just before Smithville Bridge over Beaverdam Creek.
Notes: One boat ramp, no porta-john. Holds about 10 vehicles. About 2.5 hours from Elkridge. For a trip report that involved landing at this site, see Taylors Island, June 2007.
Bestpitch
Location: Dorchester County ADC map 31 F7
Date: June 11, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. Bridge (Choptank River Bridge).
Follow route 50 (approximately 1.9 more miles) then turn right (south) on Bucktown Road. Follow for 6.5 miles.
Somewhere around the Bucktown United Methodist Church in Bucktown, the road turns left (south) and becomes Greenbrier Road. Follow for a half mile.
Turn left (southeast) onto Bestpitch Ferry Road. Follow for 0.4 miles.
Turn right (southwest) to remain on Bestpitch Ferry Road. Follow for 0.2 miles to the end.
At a church, turn left (south) to remain on Bestpitch Ferry Road. Follow for 3.4 miles to the Transquaking River.
Parking is on the southeast side of the one lane, shaky wooden bridge.
Notes: This launch site is a real gem and gives plenty of access to some narrow, winding rivers. Parking for about 35 vehicles, no porta-john, covered pavillion-like area. Access to the Transquaking River. The scenery in this area is pretty much all marshy grasslands without trees. About 2.25 hours from Hanover.
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
Location: Dorchester County ADC map 30 A3
Date: December 31, 2005
There is a restroom (sort of like a Porta-John) off the Wildlife Drive in the parking lot of the Marsh Edge Trail. One can pull a kayak into the area near the trail or the observation site (look for an information sign with a roof). The restroom is a little over a quarter mile northeast of the observation site. Not sure if boats are actually permitted to land but it is certainly better than polluting the wetlands with human waste.
Blackwater Refuge Paddling Trails
Crapo
Location: Dorchester County ADC map 36 E12
Date: June 10, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. Bridge (Choptank River Bridge). Follow route 50 (approximately 1.6 more miles) until you come to a traffic light just past the Dorchester Square Shopping Center (Center includes Wal Mart and Food City).
You will see a brown sign directing you to the refuge. Turn right at this light onto route 16 West (Gypsy Hill Road/Cambridge Beltway/Church Creek Road). Continue to the town of Church Creek.
Turn left (southeast) on Golden Hill Road (route 335). Continue to the end.
Turn left (east) to remain on Golden Hill Road (now route 336) which will become Lakesville Road then Crapo Road. Follow for 7.6 miles.
Turn right (south) on Parks Neck Road, a dirt road. Once can access Charles Creek just a short distance down on this road.
Notes: According to the map, there are two tributaries of Charles Creek that meet with Parks Neck Road. I only remember the first (northernmost) one which was totally unsuitable. No place to park and no place to really put in without getting filthy and possibly bitten by ticks. No trespassing signs around too. Unfortunately, I didn't venture to check out the second though I have no reason to believe that would be any better. I only mention this "site" if you call it that, because it is mentioned in Maryland and Delaware Canoe Trails by Edward Gertler on page 225. I expect the launch site at Asquith Island would be better though I didn't check this site out. About 2.5 hours from Hanover.
Elliott Island Road
Location: Dorchester County ADC map 39 E4
Date: June 11, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. Bridge (Choptank River Bridge). Follow for about another 12 miles.
Veer right to catch Ocean Gateway (route 731). Do not go left to remain on highway 50 (Vienna by-pass). Follow for one mile.
Veer right onto Race Street. Follow for 0.2 miles.
Turn right (southwest) onto Elliott Island Road. Follow for about 12 miles.
There will be a boat ramp on the left.
Notes: No porta-john. Parking for about 12 vehicles on the side of the road. Narrow stream that may have a strong current. Lots of marshy grasslands. Access to Island Creek. About 2.5 hours from Hanover.
Golden Hill Road (route 335) Bridge
Location: Dorchester County ADC map 29 C3
Date: December 31, 2005
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. Bridge (Choptank River Bridge). Follow route 50 (approximately 1.6 more miles) until you come to a traffic light just past the Dorchester Square Shopping Center (Center includes Wal Mart and Food City).
You will see a brown sign directing you to the refuge. Turn right at this light onto route 16 West (Gypsy Hill Road/Cambridge Beltway/Church Creek Road). Continue to the town of Church Creek.
Turn left (southeast) on Golden Hill Road (route 335). Follow for 4.5 miles. Enter Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge and pass Key Wallace Drive on the left. There will be a parking lot and launch site on the right just before crossing over the Blackwater River.
Notes: No restroom or ramp. Nearest restroom is at the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. Room for about 18 vehicles. Access to Blackwater River. About 2 hours from Hanover. For a trip report that involved launching and landing at this site, see Taylors Island, June 2007.
Great Marsh Creek
Location: Dorchester County ADC map 27 K11
Date: June 10, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. Bridge (Choptank River Bridge). Follow route 50 (approximately 1.6 more miles) until you come to a traffic light just past the Dorchester Square Shopping Center (Center includes Wal Mart and Food City).
You will see a brown sign directing you to the refuge. Turn right at this light onto route 16 West (Gypsy Hill Road/Cambridge Beltway/Church Creek Road). Continue to the town of Church Creek.
Turn left (southeast) on Golden Hill Road (route 335). Follow to the end.
Turn right (west) on Hoopers Island Road (route 335). Follow for 2 miles. Park on the shoulder of the road near the bridge over Great Marsh Creek.
Notes: No restroom or ramp. Nearest restroom is at the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. There are private property signs on the southwest side (the best place to launch) but none on the northwest side. The northwest side is rocky around the water and is a difficult and barely doable put-in. The east side appears less doable. I only mention this "site" if you call it that, because it is mentioned in Maryland and Delaware Canoe Trails by Edward Gertler on page 225. Access to Great Marsh Creek and the Honga River. Paddling an extra 3 miles to Taylors Cove or 5 miles to the launch site at Wallace Creek might be preferred. About 2.25 hours from Hanover.
Madison
Location: Madison, Dorchester County ADC map 20 B4
Date: June 10, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. Bridge (Choptank River Bridge). Follow route 50 (approximately 1.6 more miles) until you come to a traffic light just past the Dorchester Square Shopping Center (Center includes Wal Mart and Food City).
You will see a brown sign directing you to the refuge. Turn right at this light onto route 16 West (Gypsy Hill Road/Cambridge Beltway/Church Creek Road/Taylors Island Road). Follow for 10.3 miles to the town of Madison.
At Madison United Methodist Church, turn right onto Old Madison Road. Note that this road is a loop and you'll catch the second part of the loop.
Notes: I didn't actually stop at this launch site but I saw it on a quick drive by. Access to Madison Bay. About 2 hours from Hanover.
New Bridge
Location: Dorchester County ADC map 25 C8
Date: June 11, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. Bridge (Choptank River Bridge). Follow for about another 12 miles.
Veer right to catch Ocean Gateway (route 731). Do not go left to remain on highway 50 (Vienna by-pass). Follow for one mile.
Veer right onto Race Street. Follow for 0.2 miles.
Turn right (southwest) onto Elliott Island Road. Follow for about 1 mile.
Veer right onto Steele Neck Road which will become New Bridge Road. Follow for 2.3 miles, crossing over a bridge at Chicamacomico River. Park in a lot on the southwest side of where the bridge crosses over the river.
Notes: Parking for about 20 vehicles. No porta-john. Several trees. Looks very scenic. About 2.25 hours from Hanover.
Pokata Creek
Location: Dorchester County ADC map 39 E7
Date: June 11, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. Bridge (Choptank River Bridge). Follow for about another 12 miles.
Veer right to catch Ocean Gateway (route 731). Do not go left to remain on highway 50 (Vienna by-pass). Follow for one mile.
Veer right onto Race Street. Follow for 0.2 miles.
Turn right (southwest) onto Elliott Island Road. Follow for about 12.8 miles.
Park on the southeast side of Pokata Creek Bridge.
Notes: Parking for about 20 vehicles. No porta-john. Small gravel ramp on southeast side of lot (not main creek side) provides access to very small tributary of Pokata Creek. Grassy marshlands. Current can be strong in this area. About 2.5 hours from Hanover.
Shorters Wharf
Location: Dorchester County ADC map 30 E13
Date: December 31, 2005
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. Bridge (Choptank River Bridge). Follow route 50 (approximately 1.6 more miles) until you come to a traffic light just past the Dorchester Square Shopping Center (Center includes Wal Mart and Food City).
You will see a brown sign directing you to the refuge. Turn right at this light onto route 16 West (Gypsy Hill Road/Cambridge Beltway/Church Creek Road). Follow for 2.2 miles.
Turn left (south) onto Maple Dam Road (route 341). Follow for 12 miles. Cross over the Blackwater River Bridge.
Turn right into the parking lot immediately after the bridge.
Notes: No restroom. Nearest restroom is at the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. Note that the ADC map may show the launch site on the left before the bridge. This is probably an old launch site. The one on the right after the bridge is much newer and nicer. Room for about 25 vehicles. Access to Blackwater River. About 2.5 hours from Elkridge.
Taylors Cove
Location: Dorchester County ADC map 35 A6
Date: June 10, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. Bridge (Choptank River Bridge). Follow route 50 (approximately 1.6 more miles) until you come to a traffic light just past the Dorchester Square Shopping Center (Center includes Wal Mart and Food City).
You will see a brown sign directing you to the refuge. Turn right at this light onto route 16 West (Gypsy Hill Road/Cambridge Beltway/Church Creek Road). Continue to the town of Church Creek.
Turn left (southeast) on Golden Hill Road (route 335). Follow to the end.
Turn right (west) on Hoopers Island Road (route 335). Follow for 6 miles.
Park on the northwest side of the bridge over Fishing Creek.
Notes: Porta-john, dumpsters and boat ramp. Parking for about 30 vehicles. About 2.75 hours from Hanover. This ideal spot provides access to several bodies of water and islands within a short distance. One can gain immediate access to Fishing Creek as well as access to Tar Bay and the Honga River. Barren Island lies to the west while Wroten Island is on the east.
Taylors Island Boat Ramp
Location: Dorchester County ADC map 18 K10
Date: June 10, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. Bridge (Choptank River Bridge). Follow route 50 (approximately 1.6 more miles) until you come to a traffic light just past the Dorchester Square Shopping Center (Center includes Wal Mart and Food City).
You will see a brown sign directing you to the refuge. Turn right at this light onto route 16 West (Gypsy Hill Road/Cambridge Beltway/Church Creek Road/Taylors Island Road). Follow for 15.7 miles, crossing over a large bridge over Slaughter Creek.
On the right you may see a sign for the County Dock. This is NOT where you want to be. Go just a bit further. There will be a restaurant called the Island Grill at Chapel Cove Marina just across the street from the post office. Parking for the ramp will be behind the restaurant and the fire department.
Notes: One boat ramp, dumpster, and porta-john. Holds about 40 vehicles. Access to Chapel Cove and Slaughter Creek. About 2.25 hours from Hanover. For a trip report that involved launching at this site, see Taylors Island, June 2007. Note that the Dorchester County ADC map shows a boat ramp called Taylors Landing nearby at map 19 B9. No such launch site exists.
Taylors Island Family Campground
There are numerous fine places to paddle in this area. Out by Taylors Island, the water remains fairly deep. Near Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, there are numerous bald eagles. Biking in this area is also nice. The problem is that for many of us, this is a long drive and there are no state campgrounds. I searched high and low and found one place for camping. It also has its own boat ramp.
Taylors Island Family Campground
4362 Bayshore Road
Taylors Island, Maryland 21669
Mailing address:
Taylors Island Family Campground
P.O. Box 156
Taylors Island, Maryland 21669
Phone: 410-397-3275
Click to send e-mail
On June 2007, I paid $14 per tent to stay there. They have their own boat ramp near the office which provides access to the Chesapeake Bay. They have hot showers, laundry machines, and a camp store. The tent site is very small and has room for only a few vehicles. The place is reasonably clean though it doesn't have a "campsite" feel or look and can use a little work. An overwhelming majority of the people staying there have trailers. The place caters to fishermen. Campsites aren't numbered and I don't think they get many people staying with tents. Not many picnic tables but there are fire rings (old rusty tire rims with the center cut out). The tent site is wooded and gets quite a few insects and little breeze. The nearest grocery store is in Cambridge which is about a 25 minute drive. The campsite doesn't seem to have a strict policy regarding check-in or check-out time. They don't sell firewood. Alcohol is permitted. It would do well for a small group (8 or less) but I don't think the campground could handle a large group with tents.
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. Bridge (Choptank River Bridge). Follow route 50 (approximately 1.6 more miles) until you come to a traffic light just past the Dorchester Square Shopping Center (Center includes Wal Mart and Food City).
You will see a brown sign directing you to the refuge. Turn right at this light onto route 16 West (Gypsy Hill Road/Cambridge Beltway/Church Creek Road/Taylors Island Road). Follow for about 16 miles, crossing over a large bridge over Slaughter Creek.
At the split in the road, veer right onto Hoopers Neck Road. Follow for 0.1 miles.
Turn left (south) on Bay Shore Road. Follow for 2.3 miles. The campsite will be on the left.
There are two restaurants on or near Taylors Island that I know of.
Island Grill at Chapel Cove Marina
See directions for Taylors Island Boat Ramp
Haven't eaten there
The other place is
Dockside Bar and Grille Floating Restaurant
Just on the east side of Slaughter Creek, north on Taylors Island Road (route 16)
Good food, great prices, but sometimes slow service if busy
On Hoopers Island one can eat at
Old Salty's Restaurant
2560 Hoopers Island Road
Fishing Creek, Maryland 21634
Phone: 410-397-3752
Trenton Street
Location: Cambridge, Dorchester County ADC map 12 D5
Date: July 4, 2006
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. Bridge (Choptank River Bridge).
0.2 miles after crossing over the bridge, turn right (west) on LeCompte Street. Follow for 0.25 miles.
Turn right (north) on Trenton Street. The ramp will be on the left at Shipslanding Lane.
Notes: No restroom. Parking for 13 near the ramp. More parking just a bit further though this might be only for condo residents. Access to the Choptank River. Water refill station and picnic tables available. After paddling, consider eating just up the street at
Portside Seafood Restaurant
201 Trenton Street
Phone: 410-228-9007
Vienna
Location: Vienna, Dorchester County ADC map 26 B8
Date: May 9, 2008
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50 (Ocean Gateway).
About 14 miles after Cambridge, route 50 will veer left (east) and call itself Vienna By-Pass. The right side will remain Ocean Gateway (sometimes called Old Ocean Gateway) and become route 731. Follow route 731 into Vienna. Follow for 1.4 miles.
Turn right (south) on Gay Street (route 331). Follow for 40 meters.
Turn left (southeast) on Race Street and follow to the end.
Notes: Boat ramp available. No restrooms. There are restrooms at the gas station on route 731 and Market Street. Drop off your boat then park at the community center at 104 Race Street. The ADC map shows two boat ramps but I never found the second one. This site gives access to the Nanticoke River. Chicone Creek is one mile north while the scenic Barren Creek is 1.2 miles south. One hour and 55 minute drive from Hanover in light traffic. Read my May 9-11, 2008 trip report for more information. Special thanks to Norma for helping scout this location.
Wallace Creek
Location: Dorchester County ADC map 28 E13
Date: December 31, 2005
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. Bridge (Choptank River Bridge). Follow route 50 (approximately 1.6 more miles) until you come to a traffic light just past the Dorchester Square Shopping Center (Center includes Wal Mart and Food City).
You will see a brown sign directing you to the refuge. Turn right at this light onto route 16 West (Gypsy Hill Road/Cambridge Beltway/Church Creek Road). Continue to the town of Church Creek.
Turn left (southeast) on Golden Hill Road (route 335). Continue to the end.
Turn right (west) on Hoopers Island Road (route 335).
Turn left after about an eighth of a mile into a parking lot.
Notes: Porta-john available. Parking for about 35 vehicles but it may be mostly filled with boat trailers, especially during bird hunting season. Access to Wallace Creek and Honga River. About 2.5 hours from Elkridge.
Worlds End Creek
Location: Dorchester County ADC map 36 A1
Date: June 10, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Pay $2.50 toll one way only. On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301. Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. Bridge (Choptank River Bridge). Follow route 50 (approximately 1.6 more miles) until you come to a traffic light just past the Dorchester Square Shopping Center (Center includes Wal Mart and Food City).
You will see a brown sign directing you to the refuge. Turn right at this light onto route 16 West (Gypsy Hill Road/Cambridge Beltway/Church Creek Road). Continue to the town of Church Creek.
Turn left (southeast) on Golden Hill Road (route 335). Continue to the end.
Turn left (east) to remain on Golden Hill Road (now route 336). Follow for 1.8 miles to where th
