Calvert Cliffs State Park wilderness guide
State Park · MD
Fossil%20Hunting Guide

Calvert Cliffs State Park

Calvert Cliffs State Park in Maryland is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, rich fossil deposits, and diverse ecosystems, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.

State Park1,3113+ Trails
DesignationState Park
Total Wilderness Area1,311
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Calvert Cliffs State Park

Calvert Cliffs State Park in Maryland is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, rich fossil deposits, and diverse ecosystems, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Calvert Cliffs State Park is located on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay in southern Maryland, known for its striking cliffs that line the bay, soaring up to 100 feet in height. These cliffs are significant for their paleontological resources, offering one of the largest fossil deposits on the East Coast, with remnants from the Miocene era often unearthed along its beaches. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking through its diverse forested trails and exploring its natural beauty. Hikers can enjoy over 13 miles of trails, offering scenic views of the lush woodlands and marshlands. For birdwatchers, the park is a haven for avian species, and the dense forest areas shelter many wildlife species. The park's amphibian and reptile diversity is notable, supported by its combination of freshwater wetlands and tidal marshes. Visitors can also enjoy swimming in the designated beaches or exploring the interpretive trails displaying the geological and ecological significance of the area. The park's appeal lies not only in its natural wonders but also its accessible location, providing an easy escape into nature from nearby urban areas.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Calvert Cliffs State Park

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The iconic Calvert Cliffs themselves, providing stunning views and fossil hunting opportunities.✦ The diverse ecosystems, housing a variety of wildlife and plant species.✦ Red Trail, which leads to the picturesque sandy beach along the Chesapeake Bay.✦ Freshwater and tidal marsh areas that are ideal for birdwatching.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Calvert Cliffs State Park

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

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

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

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Park entrance fee required.

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).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Calvert Cliffs State Park

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

Lusby, Maryland
⌖ 4.05 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lusby, Maryland

Lusby offers diverse outdoor activities from kayaking on Chesapeake Bay to hiking in Calvert Cliffs State Park. Its coastal charm and rich natural areas are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Saint Leonard, Maryland
⌖ 4.68 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Saint Leonard, Maryland

Saint Leonard, MD, offers a peaceful gateway to Chesapeake Bay adventures like kayaking, bird watching, and fishing. Its rural charm and protected wetlands create a refreshing escape for outdoor lovers seeking quiet water and woodland trails.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Broomes Island, Maryland
⌖ 5.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Broomes Island, Maryland

Broomes Island is a peaceful waterfront town offering excellent paddling, fishing, and boating along the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay. It’s perfect for travelers seeking quiet outdoor water adventures amidst natural marshlands.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Port Republic, Maryland
⌖ 6.91 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Port Republic, Maryland

Port Republic offers peaceful outdoor adventures on Maryland’s Patuxent River and nearby parks. Enjoy paddling, hiking gentle trails, fishing, and bird watching in an uncrowded Chesapeake Bay setting.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Solomons, Maryland
⌖ 7.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Solomons, Maryland

Solomons, Maryland is a tranquil waterfront town ideal for kayaking, boating, fishing, and hiking along the Chesapeake Bay. Discover maritime history, peaceful wildlife spots, and charming local parks for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Hollywood, Maryland
⌖ 9.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hollywood, Maryland

Hollywood, Maryland, is an unassuming gem for outdoor lovers seeking paddling, bird watching, and quiet hiking near Chesapeake Bay's tidal creeks and forests. It’s a great base for nature-filled days amid Southern Maryland’s calm waterways and wildlife.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Calvert Cliffs State Park

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

Equestrian  Assessment
ADVEXPEDITION
Hollywood, Maryland
HorseADV Bookable

Equestrian Assessment

Short, focused, and one-on-one: this 30–45 minute Equestrian Assessment at 25450 Rosedale Manor Ln gives riders of all ages a clear roadmap for faster progress. Book a diagnostic session to get immediate feedback, prioritized drills, and a practical plan tailored to your riding level.

HorseInstructor's assessment of studentCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Senior/Adaptive Paddles
ADVEXPEDITION
Hollywood, Maryland
KayakADV Bookable

Senior/Adaptive Paddles

Slow, safe, and centered on access—this two-hour guided paddle at Greenwell State Park is built for seniors and adaptive paddlers who want to explore calm waters with patient instruction. Small groups and ACA-certified guides make it an ideal introduction to kayaking for multigenerational groups and caregivers.

KayakWelcome to an adaptive paddle experience!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Special Event Paddles
ADVEXPEDITION
Hollywood, Maryland
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Special Event Paddles

Jump into a two-hour guided kayak packed with community activities, creative challenges, and marshland wildlife viewing near Hollywood, Maryland. Small groups and ACA-certified guides make this a relaxed, social way to experience Southern Maryland’s tidal creeks.

Water ActivitiesWhat’s a special event paddle?- It’s kayaking with added activities!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Half Day Private Charter
ADVEXPEDITION
Solomons, Maryland
Boat TourADV Bookable

Half Day Private Charter

Join LJK Outdoors for a private half-day of fishing off the San Juan Islands. Perfect for families and groups, this trip offers personalized experiences targeting Rockfish and Bluefish in a stunning marine setting.

Boat TourUp to 28 passengers! • Ages 4+ • 6 HoursCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Public Cruise Solomons Island
ADVEXPEDITION
Solomons, Maryland
Boat TourADV Bookable

Public Cruise Solomons Island

Discover Maryland’s tidal waterways on a scenic public cruise with Big Kahuna Cruises. Perfect for relaxing and taking in stunning harbor views, this trip highlights the Chesapeake Bay’s vibrant marine environment.

Boat Tour2 Hours • Where Chesapeake tides meet island vibes!Certified Outfitter
From$50
Book Trip