Wildlife sanctuary on Chesapeake Bay featuring several shoreline access points but no designated swimming areas. Primarily focused on birdwatching, wildlife observation, and fishing. Limited facilities with nature as the main attraction.
MD Beaches
Deep Creek Lake State Park
Western Maryland’s largest freshwater beach located on Deep Creek Lake. Features a sandy beach area with designated swimming zone, picnic facilities, and boat rentals. Entry fee required with mountain scenery and seasonal lifeguards.
North Point State Park
Baltimore County park on Chesapeake Bay featuring a small sand and pebble beach area and remnants of the historic Bay Shore Amusement Park. Offers fishing pier, hiking trails, and picnic pavilions. Entry fee required with seasonal operation.
Calvert Cliffs State Park
Named for the impressive 24-million-year-old fossil-bearing cliffs. Features a small beach accessible via a 1.8-mile hike, popular for fossil hunting and swimming. Limited facilities at beach area with main amenities at the park entrance.
Gunpowder Falls State Park (Hammerman Area)
Popular swimming beach on the Gunpowder River with 1,500 feet of shoreline and designated swimming area. Features picnic facilities, playgrounds, canoe/kayak rentals, and hiking trails. Entry fee required with seasonal lifeguards.
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Calvert County park featuring a sandy beach popular for fossil hunting, especially prehistoric shark teeth. Includes hiking trails, observation platforms, and fishing areas. Limited facilities with entry fee required and half-mile hike to beach.
Downs Park Beach
Anne Arundel County park on Chesapeake Bay featuring a designated dog beach area (no human swimming). Includes fishing areas, hiking trails, playground, and picnic facilities. Entry fee required with scenic Bay views and pet-friendly policies.
Terrapin Beach Park
Queen Anne’s County park on Kent Island featuring a small beach area, 3.25-mile nature trail, and diverse ecosystems. Offers beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, wildlife viewing opportunities, and natural sandy shoreline. Free admission.
Assateague Island National Seashore
Protected barrier island famous for its wild horses, undeveloped beaches, and diverse ecosystems. Features camping options, hiking trails, and pristine beaches. Split between Maryland and Virginia portions with different regulations and facilities.