Springtime is one of the best seasons to get out and enjoy the outdoors in Southern Maryland. The pleasant mild temps make for great hiking or a simple stroll in the park. Aside from fossil-searching at the famed Calvert Cliffs State Park, Southern Maryland has many other outdoor gems worth exploring. Here are some I’d recommend checking out:

Explore Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum

Where: 10515 Mackall Road, St. Leonard, MD

 

The Jefferson Patterson Park and State Museum of Archaeology are located along the Patuxent River in St. Leonard. Here, visitors can explore 560 acres of scenery and over 65 identified archaeological sites. The park is also home to the Maryland Archaeological Conservation Laboratory (MAC Lab) housing over 8 million artifacts. People flock here to gain a sense of the land and the people who once lived here. A visit here not only allows you the opportunity to get outside for some fresh air but also to leave with a greater knowledge of the area’s history. Their Visitor Center is a free resource to explore, with interactive exhibits and information about the park and museum. They also have an Exhibit Barn available to tour, with fascinating historical exhibits and antique farm equipment. And of course, the scenic land and miles of trails make for a great day of outdoor activity. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the Pavilion, or take the paved path to the Indian Village — a reconstructed dwelling that will transport you back in time.

Paddle the Patuxent River

For the adventurous, the Patuxent River provides all kinds of water activities, including kayaking and paddling. Consider spending a day checking out the Patuxent Water Trail. The trail winds through wildlife areas, historic sites, and campgrounds. You can plan a day of paddling or even extend your adventure and camp at one of the many campsites along the way, including those at Maxwell Hall Park in Charles County or Greenwell State Park in St. Mary’s County. You can also plan your paddling adventure around catching some points of interest along the trail, like Patuxent River Park in Upper Marlboro or Sotterly Plantation in St. Mary’s County.

 

Wander through Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary

Where: 2880 Grays Road, Prince Frederick, MD

 

The Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary in Calvert County is a great destination for a day trip with kids. The Sanctuary is filled with a 100-acre natural range of bald cypress trees and a nature center with exhibits on the natural and cultural heritage of the area. There’s also a nature center viewing room where kids can get up close to small animals that are indigenous to the area. This tranquil park includes some short trails and a quarter-mile boardwalk trail through swamps and meadows where you can take in the sounds of the sanctuary’s critters. This park is also great for an afternoon of solitude, and you might even catch sight of a red-tailed hawk or an albino snapping turtle.

 

Bike the trails at St. Mary’s River State Park

Where: Camp Cosoma Road, Callaway, MD

 

In Callaway, St. Mary’s River State Park and the 7.5-mile loop trail around the lake there make for a great way to stretch your legs. You might choose to take it on foot or explore on two wheels. For mountain bikers, they have a single-track dirt trail to explore. This scenic trail is also home to freshwater fishing as well as great bird-watching. Keep your eyes peeled for other wildlife that call this beautiful park home. You can get to this trail by taking State Route 5 to Camp Cosoma Road and parking at the lot at the boat ramp where you can find trail access.

 

Enjoy Gilbert Run Park

Where: 13140 Charles Street, Charlotte Hall, MD

 

Gilbert Run Park is located in Charles County and offers a variety of ways to spend your day. For those looking to get out and hike, there’s a 2-mile wooded trail which loops around the lake. It’s kid-friendly and dog-friendly, so the whole family can enjoy it. There’s also a large playground overlooking Wheatley Lake and a sanded volleyball court, so you can be sure everyone will have an opportunity to get their energy out. The park is also filled with piers on the lake where you can freshwater fish, just make sure to get your freshwater fishing license ahead of time. If you’re looking to go boating, you can bring your own to the ramp, or you can rent pedal boats, row boats, kayaks, and canoes at the park. There are concessions available as well as a nature center with a 150-gallon aquarium.

 

 

As the weather warms up in Southern Maryland, residents of this beautiful area take advantage and get out in the sunshine. There are many beautiful spots in this region to enjoy the fresh air. Whether in the tranquil woods with lake views or amidst a peaceful cypress sanctuary, you can find the perfect way to stretch your legs. What are some of the parks that top your list in Southern Maryland? Share them with us.