Bordered by the Potomac River to the west and Patuxent River to the east with more than 20,000 acres of parkland and miles of trail to explore, Charles County, Md. is a hiker’s paradise.
Charles County has plenty of parks and outdoor recreation for you to enjoy. Experience the wonder of the marshes and coastal woodlands at Chapman State Park. This park offers a scenic vista of the Potomac, making it a great location to fish for largemouth bass, sunfish, or birdwatch in an Important Bird Area. Just down the river, Smallwood State Park offers a little bit of everything for visitors. The park has a marina, hiking trails, boat ramp, picnicking facilities, campsites, and rich history dating back to the Revolutionary War. Chapel Point State Park is another pristine park that offers more than 3,000 feet of shoreline to view the Port Tobacco River.
Experience the natural areas of Charles County on the Indian Head Rail Trail. Hikers, bikers, and nature lovers alike will enjoy passing through a variety of ecosystems on this 13-mile paved trail. Enjoy Thomas Stone National Historic Site to witness 109 species of birds within their natural habitat.
From open fields and beaches to wooded areas and steep terrain, Maxwell Hall Park has 14.2 miles of diverse trails on the Patuxent. The tranquil Port Tobacco River Park features an additional three miles of walking trails and several observation platforms to take in the local flora, fauna, and Bald Eagle’s Nest. Just down the road, take a scenic walk, and enjoy the quaint Friendship Farm Park along the Nanjemoy Creek.
Après Hike
For farm to table cuisine with a taste of southern Maryland, The Charles is the place to be with mouthwatering choices on-the-go or in their expansive terrace. Experience the rolling hills of the local Serenity Farm and buy fresh produce and meats. The farm offers a variety of fall activities, including hayrides, a petting zoo, face painting, hay bale maze, and a pumpkin patch.
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop from Landon’s Ices and Creams, serving up delicious homemade ice cream flavors like snickerdoodle and red velvet cream cheese. Or enjoy fall specialty cupcakes, including caramel apple, maple bacon, and chocolate peppermint, from Michelle’s Cakes. Then take a shopping break at the St. Charles Towne Center Mall.
Get outside and soak in the allure of Charles County, Md. with great outdoors and waterways.
Cover Photo: Bordered by the Potomac River to the west and Patuxent River to the east with more than 20,000 acres of parkland and miles of trail to explore, Charles County, Md. is a hiker’s paradise. All photos courtesy Charles County Government
