Discover Calvert Cliffs State Park
Adventure Destination

Discover Calvert Cliffs State Park

Explore Calvert Cliffs State Park in Lusby, MD. With 1.8-mile hiking trails and fossil hunting on the beach, this park offers family-friendly outdoor activities. Enjoy fishing and wildlife spotting in a scenic, historic setting. Best visited in spring and fall.

Fossil Hunting7.2/10Moderate
Photo Gallery

Category

Fossil Hunting

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Moderate

About This Adventure Destination

Calvert Cliffs State Park, located in Lusby, Maryland, is a striking geological wonder. The towering cliffs that line the Chesapeake Bay are renowned for their rich fossil beds, offering a glimpse into ancient marine life. Stretching along the shoreline, these clay cliffs are a geological spectacle crafted by natural forces over millions of years. This unique landscape is not only a haven for fossils but also a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, providing habitats for various bird species and other fauna.

The park boasts a scenic mile-long sandy beach, perfect for exploring and relaxation. With over 13 miles of hiking trails winding through lush forests and marshlands, visitors can enjoy both the invigo outdoors and the serenity of nature. Established as a state park in 1966, Calvert Cliffs stands as a testament to nature's beauty and history.

Enjoy the blend of adventure and discovery as you wander through this captivating Maryland treasure, where the ancient and the modern worlds meet.

Editorial Assessment

Calvert Cliffs State Park is a regional gem with its unique fossil-rich cliffs and abundant hiking opportunities. Though not globally renowned, its distinct geological features make it a worthwhile destination for nature lovers and fossil enthusiasts. The blend of outdoor adventure and history gives it a unique charm.

Discover Calvert Cliffs State Park

Adventure Guide to Discover Calvert Cliffs State Park

1

Hiking the Red Trail

  • Details: **Special Features**: Known for its striking views of the Chesapeake Bay and the cliffs themselves.
  • Details: **Description**: This 1.8-mile trail is filled with opportunities to spot wildlife and discover fossils.
  • Details: **Visitor Tips**: Best visited in spring or fall for cooler weather. Bring sturdy shoes and water.
2

Fossil Hunting on the Beach

  • Details: **Key Features**: Renowned for fossils dating back to the Miocene era.
  • Details: **Local Insights**: Look for shark teeth and ancient seashells along the sandy shores.
  • Details: **Visitor Tips**: Arrive early in the morning. A small shovel and bucket can be handy for excavation.
3

Fishing in the Park's Pond

  • Details: **Special Features**: Offers a peaceful setting for catching bass and other freshwater fish.
  • Details: **Amenities**: Fishing pier and shaded areas for rest.
  • Details: **Visitor Tips**: Bring your fishing gear and a Maryland fishing license. Late afternoon is ideal for a catch.

Reviews

A
Andrew Kapelkain the last week

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

S
Sheri Beltzin the last week

The cliffs are blocked off. It's a 1.8 mile walk to the beach. We arrived when the park opened at 7:30 a.m.. The beach fills up pretty quick. It's not the type of beach where you lay out in the sun or swim. The beach is used for looking for fossils and sharks teeth. The park provides strainers and other helpful items. We didn't take any hikes other than the one to the beach.

M
Marianne Poea week ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

D
Diegoa week ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

D
Dorcas Taylora week ago

If you are going to the cliffs it is not really worth it, they are far in the distance and there are signs saying you cant walk to far down the beach. It is an hour or more hike to the cliffs. When I went there were a lot of people at the beach. The trail itself was beautiful, we saw mushrooms, frogs, turtles and a lily pad lake. Be PREPAIRED with WATER and ELECTROLYTES. It is a long walk if you are not ready. It is mostly shaded whish is nice.

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