Pocomoke State Forest wilderness guide
State Forest · MD

Pocomoke State Forest

Pocomoke State Forest in Maryland offers a rich blend of ecosystems, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers of all kinds.

State Forest18,1984+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

18,198

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Pocomoke State Forest

Pocomoke State Forest in Maryland offers a rich blend of ecosystems, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers of all kinds.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Pocomoke State Forest covers a substantial area in southeastern Maryland, near the Pocomoke River. This diverse ecosystem is rich with loblolly pine, mixed hardwoods, and cypress swamps, providing a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Delmarva fox squirrel. The forest's history dates back to colonial times when its valuable timber resources were extensively harvested. Today, it serves as an important area for both conservation and recreation. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching, with trails winding through scenic woodland and swamp areas. With its proximity to the Pocomoke River, the forest also offers water-based recreation opportunities. It's an appealing location for those looking to explore natural landscapes without venturing too far from the developed areas along Maryland's Eastern Shore.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Pocomoke State Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Cypress swamps teeming with wildlife✦ Endangered Delmarva fox squirrel habitat✦ Access to the scenic Pocomoke River✦ Varied ecosystems from pine forests to hardwoods
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Pocomoke State Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Pocomoke State Forest
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Pocomoke State Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Pocomoke State Forest
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Pocomoke State Forest
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Pocomoke State Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Pocomoke State Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Pocomoke State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees are required for general access.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Pocomoke State Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Milburn Landing Campground

Located near the Pocomoke River, offering both standard and electric sites.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Pocomoke State Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Westover, Maryland
⌖ 4.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Westover, Maryland

Westover is a peaceful rural town on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, perfect for paddling tidal creeks, bird watching, and cycling quiet country roads. Its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay offers relaxing outdoor adventures away from crowds.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Crisfield, Maryland
⌖ 8.11 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Crisfield, Maryland

Crisfield, MD is a peaceful Chesapeake Bay town known for excellent kayaking, fishing, and bird watching. With nearby Janes Island State Park and sheltered waters, it’s a great spot for outdoor lovers seeking coastal adventures.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Princess Anne, Maryland
⌖ 9.49 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Princess Anne, Maryland

Princess Anne, Maryland is a peaceful town perfect for outdoor lovers seeking paddling, biking, and bird watching. With scenic rivers, calm trails, and historic charm, it’s a quiet basecamp for nature-focused adventures.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Deal Island, Maryland
⌖ 10.89 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Deal Island, Maryland

Deal Island offers a quiet retreat for outdoor lovers seeking paddling, birding, and fishing in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay wetlands. Its remote charm, abundant wildlife, and peaceful waters provide a refreshing escape from busier coastal destinations.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Pocomoke City, Maryland
⌖ 11.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pocomoke City, Maryland

Pocomoke City is a peaceful hub for paddling, hiking, and nature watching along Maryland’s scenic Pocomoke River. Surrounded by river swamps and state park trails, it’s perfect for travelers wanting quiet outdoor exploration.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Smith Island, Maryland
⌖ 15.90 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Smith Island, Maryland

Smith Island is a quiet Chesapeake Bay island offering kayaking, bird watching, and fishing among scenic marshes. Accessible only by ferry, it’s perfect for travelers seeking authentic coastal charm and outdoor exploration.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Pocomoke State Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Take an Adventure w/ our Historical Storyteller
ADVEXPEDITION
Crisfield, Maryland
Guided TourADV Bookable

Take an Adventure w/ our Historical Storyteller

Guided tours in Crisfield led by Joe—paddling, cruising, walking or driving—layer Chesapeake Bay history from 1608 through the early 20th century with lively local narration.

Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Chesapeake Twilight: A 90‑Minute Sunset Cruise Out of Crisfield
ADVEXPEDITION
Crisfield, Maryland
Boat TourADV Bookable

Chesapeake Twilight: A 90‑Minute Sunset Cruise Out of Crisfield

A calm, 90‑minute evening cruise aboard a traditional Chesapeake Bay deadrise workboat departing Somers Cove Marina, led by Captain Everett Landon and focused on panoramic sunset views and local storytelling.

Boat TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Salt-Sweet Passage: Six Hours on Smith Island from Crisfield
ADVEXPEDITION
Crisfield, Maryland
SailingADV Bookable

Salt-Sweet Passage: Six Hours on Smith Island from Crisfield

An immersive, all-inclusive six-hour tour from Crisfield that combines a scenic boat ride, a Maryland crab cake lunch, blue-crab and Smith Island Cake demonstrations, wildlife spotting, and visits to island communities.

SailingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip