Jefferson Patterson Park features multiple trails spread over 560 scenic acres along the Patuxent River, with more than 65 identified architectural sites, and 9,000 years of documented human occupation. The one-mile Riverside Trail is a self-guided walk that takes you past several archaeological discoveries. The shorter (0.65 miles) Woodland Trail features plants and wildlife native to the region, walk under its beautiful canopy of beech, oak, and yellow pine trees. Or take the Village Trail, which takes you the through past, present, and future of the Eastern Woodland Indians – offering a window into the culture of its native people, who’ve called this land “home” for over 400 years. The onsite Maryland Archaeological Conservation Laboratory offers indoor tours, where you can see some of the 10 million preserved artifacts.
For longer, nature-based hikes, explore over 22 miles of trails within the 3,400-acre American Chestnut Land Trust preserve. Committed to preserving special, natural and cultural places for future generations; the American Chestnut Land Trust offers options for every age and hiking level. Create your own hike by crossing between trails, scale the inclines of the North-South Trail, or wander through the wood line to take in some creek views while hiking the Parkers Creek Trail. Make sure to explore Parkers Creek on the pulley-system-powered raft – fun for kids and adults alike!
If you enjoy taking your time and gazing up at the skies, check out the Calvert County Birding Trail. Calvert County has had over 330 reported bird species. Most of Calvert County is rural, with habitats that include; tidal wetlands, freshwater marshes, beaches, forests, meadows, bay and river shorelines and even a cypress swamp where you can spot some feathered friends!
A must-do while in Calvert County – Calvert Cliffs State Park boasts 1,460 wooded acres, as well as the world-famous, majestic Calvert Cliffs; which overlook the Chesapeake Bay. Formed over 15 million years ago, the cliffs contain more than 600 fossil species. This location is ideal for hiking, picnicking, fishing and fossil hunting. There’s also a stroller-friendly, two-mile walk to the beach past beautiful foliage, and a recycled tire playground for the kids!
Try your hand at “chicken-necking” to catch some Maryland blue crabs in our various parks and piers. This crabbing technique matches its name; all you need is a cotton string and a raw chicken neck, available in most grocery stores, tied at the end of the string. Drop the string into the Patuxent River or the Chesapeake Bay and cross your fingers! According to Maryland Department of Natural Resources Blue Crab Regulations; you do not need a crabbing license for “chicken-necking”, but you are still limited to no more than 24 male hard crabs and no more than 12 soft crabs, depending on the season.
Explore the majestic waters of the Chesapeake Bay by kayak, canoe or paddleboard at public water access launches; located at Flag Ponds Nature Park or in the Town of Chesapeake Beach. Then check out the beautiful Patuxent River from riverside launches, which include Hallowing Point Boat Ramp, Kings Landing Park, Wharf and Nans Cove.
If fishing is more up your alley, Calvert County is where it’s at! Calvert has been deemed the “Fishing Charter Boat Capital of Maryland.” Book a charter boat for a full or half day on the Chesapeake Bay for the perfect way to clear your mind and have fun! Charter boat crews provide everything you need; equipment, licenses, ice, bait, tackle and a great water view. They prepare the boat and equipment, rig the bait and even navigate for you. All you need to do is relax, enjoy time out on the water and catch some fish!
Fall into bed at any one of Calvert County’s lovely Bed & Breakfast locations and hotels. Anywhere you stay will provide first-class service, so you can wake up the next morning feeling refreshed for another day of Calvert County fun!
After you’ve exhausted all of the exciting outdoor activities that Calvert County has to offer – come view exquisite local art and pick up a souvenir along the Calvert County Arts & Antiques Trail. Then shop ‘til you drop at any or all of the one-of-a-kind specialty shops that Calvert County has to offer.
After your day of adventure, slow down and enjoy some of the delicious tastings along the Calvert County Wine & Ale Trail. Then finish off your day with the perfect dinner at a waterside restaurant and satisfy your sweet tooth as you wind your way through the Calvert County Sweet Treat Trail!
