Myrtle Point Park
Myrtle Point Park is a culturally rich site that offers abundant Bay-related natural, historic and recreational resources. The 192-acre natural park is located on the western shore of the Patuxent River and is about 5 miles from the confluence of the river with the Chesapeake Bay.
In addition to the magnificent water frontage and saltwater ponds, the Park provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife and migratory birds. The Park contains numerous historic sites, some dating back more than 9,000 years.
The park is distinguished by its nearly two miles of pristine shoreline, tidal wetlands, salt ponds, mature forests, network of nature trails and documented archaeological sites. It provides a tranquil setting for activities such as hiking, picnicking, bird watching, beach combing, fishing and environmental education.
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Hours
The park is open Sunrise to Sunset (except for special evening and night activities). During the winter months, its gates are closed but the park is open for use by pedestrian access. During this time, the public is welcome to park at the entrance and walk into the park.
(Note: Many places fill to capacity on busy, nice weather days, especially holiday weekends. Please call ahead or visit the official website to get the most up-to-date information before visiting.)
Fees
Entrance Fees for Weekends and Holidays (May 1 through September 7)
- Walk-ins and bicyclers (groups of 4 or a single person): $5.00
- Daily Pass for county resident: $5.00 per vehicle
- Daily Pass for out of county resident: $10.00 per car
- Season pass for county resident: $15.00
- Season pass for out of county resident $30.00
Activities
Visitors use the park for hiking, nature viewing, pinicking and enjoying the beach areas. Numerous school environmental field trips occur in the spring and fall.
Boats, canoes and kayaks regularly use the waterways around Myrtle Point. Additionally, the Friends of Myrtle Point Park regularly host awareness walks, educational activities, bird watching walks and other events at the park.
Visitors have access to most areas of the park and waterfront which includes over 3 miles of hiking trails and 2 miles of shoreline.
History
Myrtle Point Park would have been a prime location for observing the US Chesapeake Flotilla’s movements during the War of 1812. Com. Joshua Barney’s flotilla of gunboats and barges, known as the “mosquito fleet,” aimed to outmaneuver the larger British ships. The first skirmish occurred on June 8, 1814, at Cedar Point, just south of the Myrtle Point peninsula on the Patuxent River. The American flotilla withdrew up St. Leonard Creek and the British navy blockaded the mouth of the Patuxent River. What followed became known as the First Battle and Second Battle of St. Leonard Creek, the largest naval engagement of the war on Maryland waters. Barney and his men eventually blew up their flotilla to keep it out of British hands.
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