Fish and wildlife conservation in Maryland

Deal Island State Wildlife Management Area is a sprawling park located in Dames Quarter, Maryland, United States. The area features expanses of tidal marsh, forested wetlands, and a large man-made pond, making it a haven for a variety of waterfowl and wildlife. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, photography, hunting, crabbing, saltwater fishing, hiking, and biking on the trails around the marsh impoundment. A primitive camping area is available for overnight stays, but visitors should be prepared for mosquitoes and other biting insects. The institution is part of Maryland's Department of Natural Resources public land system and is managed by the Wildlife and Heritage Service, with a mission to conserve wildlife populations and habitats while providing recreational opportunities. Funding for the institution comes from hunting license fees, federal aid, and Program Open Space Funding. Visitors can also report any fraudulent activities through the toll-free fraud hotline operated by the Maryland General Assembly's Office of Legislative Audits.

Cash Lake Fishing Area is a picturesque park located in Bowie, Maryland, United States. This serene fishing spot offers anglers the opportunity to relax and unwind while trying their luck at catching a variety of fish in the tranquil waters of Cash Lake. With its peaceful surroundings and abundant wildlife, Cash Lake Fishing Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and fishing enthusiasts alike. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just looking to spend a peaceful day by the water, Cash Lake Fishing Area provides a beautiful setting for a day of outdoor recreation.

Heater's Island Wildlife Management Area is a park and tourist attraction located in Tuscarora, Maryland, United States. Accessible only by boat, this island in the Potomac River is a forested haven for wildlife. Once home to a Piscataway tribe, the island is now inhabited by wild turkeys, waterfowl, deer, and other animals. Visitors can enjoy hunting for deer and turkey, as well as fishing for bass, bluegill, and other fish species. Managed by Maryland's Department of Natural Resources, the WMA system aims to conserve wildlife populations and habitats while providing recreational opportunities. Funding for these programs comes from hunting license fees and federal aid, including the Pittman-Robertson Fund. Additionally, Maryland's Program Open Space Funding supports land acquisition for parks and conservation areas. The Department of Natural Resources is committed to preserving the state's natural resources for future generations. If you suspect fraud or abuse of state resources, you can report it to the Maryland General Assembly's Office of Legislative Audits fraud hotline.

Located in Hancock, Maryland, United States, the Sideling Hill Wildlife Management Area is a picturesque park and tourist attraction that spans over 3,100 acres. The main goal of this area is to provide habitat for forest wildlife and protect the water quality of Sideling Hill Creek. Visitors can marvel at the dramatic rock formations, including cliffs and rocky outcrops of Devonian shale and sandstone. The steep shale barrens along the creek are home to unique plants that only grow in this specific area. Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring the mixed oak forest and Virginia Pine stands, as well as spotting wildlife such as turkeys, black bears, white-tailed deer, and grouse. Fishing for stocked trout in the creek is a popular activity, and canoeing is best during the spring melt. Hikers and hunters can enjoy walking along the old logging roads that crisscross the area.

The Wildlife Authority is a premier pet store located at 3275 Bethany Lane in Ellicott City, Maryland, United States. Our store is dedicated to providing a wide variety of exotic and domestic animals, including reptiles, birds, fish, and mammals, as well as all the supplies and accessories needed to care for them. Our knowledgeable staff is committed to promoting responsible pet ownership and conservation efforts, making us a trusted resource for all animal lovers. Visit us today to discover the wonders of the animal kingdom and find the perfect companion for your home.

Morgan Run Fishing Platform is a picturesque park located in Westminster, Maryland, United States. Situated along the serene Morgan Run stream, this fishing platform offers anglers a peaceful and scenic setting to cast their lines and reel in their catch of the day. Whether you're a seasoned fisherman or just looking to relax by the water, Morgan Run Fishing Platform provides a tranquil escape for all nature enthusiasts. So pack your fishing gear and come enjoy a day of fishing in this beautiful outdoor oasis.

Gunpowder: Bunker Hill and Mingo Fork Loop is a scenic park and tourist attraction located at 17724 Bunker Hill Road in Parkton, Maryland, United States. The loop offers visitors a chance to explore the beautiful Gunpowder Falls State Park, with its lush forests, winding trails, and stunning views. Whether you're looking for a leisurely hike or a challenging adventure, Gunpowder: Bunker Hill and Mingo Fork Loop has something for everyone. Come discover the natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities that await you at this picturesque destination.

Ward Farm Recreation and Nature Park is a picturesque tourist attraction located at 10455 Ward Road in Dunkirk, Maryland, United States. This sprawling park offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying a variety of recreational activities. From hiking and birdwatching to picnicking and fishing, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Ward Farm Recreation and Nature Park. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and peaceful atmosphere, this park is the perfect destination for a relaxing day out in nature.

Somerset County Recreation and Parks is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 30290 Sam Barnes Road in Westover, Maryland, United States. This institution offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors of all ages, including hiking trails, playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. The park is also home to stunning natural landscapes and wildlife, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or get active and explore, Somerset County Recreation and Parks has something for everyone to enjoy.

Black Walnut Point Fishing Area and Parking is a scenic park located at 4787 Black Walnut Point Road on Tilghman Island in Maryland, United States. This institution offers a tranquil and picturesque setting for fishing enthusiasts to enjoy a day out on the water. The park features ample parking space for visitors, making it convenient for those looking to spend a relaxing day by the water. With stunning views of the surrounding natural landscape, Black Walnut Point Fishing Area and Parking is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Rod N Reel Hunting & Fishing is not your average gas station. Located at 18161 Three Notch Road in Lexington Park, Maryland, this unique establishment offers a variety of hunting and fishing supplies for outdoor enthusiasts. From fishing rods and reels to hunting gear and accessories, this one-stop shop has everything you need for your next outdoor adventure. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice hunter, Rod N Reel has something for everyone. Stop by today and gear up for your next outdoor excursion!

St Johns Rock Parking and Picnic Area is located in Frostburg, Maryland, United States within the Savage River State Forest. This park is managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Forest Service and offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, and camping. Visitors can also enjoy boating, canoeing, ORV trail riding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing in the forest. The park has a public shooting range that is open 365 days a year. Additionally, the park has designated State Wildlands to preserve unique natural resources. The forest is managed to thin overstocked stands, improve wildlife habitat, and address aesthetic concerns. Visitors can obtain permits and information at the forest headquarters, which is open on select days and hours. The Department of Natural Resources works to preserve and protect Maryland's natural resources for future generations.

Mason Springs Conservancy Kayak Launch is a scenic park located in Pisgah, Maryland, United States. This institution offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for kayaking enthusiasts to launch their boats and explore the tranquil waters of Mason Springs. Surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes and diverse wildlife, visitors can enjoy a relaxing paddle along the calm waters, taking in the sights and sounds of this serene environment. Whether you're a beginner or experienced kayaker, Mason Springs Conservancy Kayak Launch provides the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy a day out on the water.

Calvert and Federal Park is a serene green space located at 1601 North Calvert Street in Baltimore, Maryland. This beautiful park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with well-maintained grounds and plenty of benches for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the walking paths, have a picnic on the grassy lawns, or simply soak in the natural beauty of the surrounding trees and flowers. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to read a book or a place to gather with friends and family, Calvert and Federal Park provides a welcoming and tranquil setting for all to enjoy.

The Frederick Municipal Forest, located in Frederick, Maryland, is a popular park and tourist attraction covering over 7,000 acres of forest land in western Frederick County. It is known for its wildlife management area, attracting hunters of deer, squirrel, grouse, and turkey. Recent timber cuts have improved the habitat for grouse and deer. The area also features small ponds that attract migrating waterfowl, as well as opportunities for bass and panfish fishing. Two branches of Fishing Creek offer trout fishing. The institution is committed to preserving and protecting Maryland's natural resources, with initiatives led by the Department of Natural Resources. Additionally, the Maryland General Assembly's Office of Legislative Audits operates a fraud hotline to report any misuse of state resources.

Black Hill Regional Park, located at 20930 Lake Ridge Drive in Boyds, Maryland, is a sprawling 2,000-acre park that offers a wide range of outdoor activities and recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. From picnicking and hiking to boating and fishing, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this popular tourist attraction. Visitors can take in stunning views of Little Seneca Lake while relaxing at one of the many picnic shelters, playgrounds, or volleyball courts scattered throughout the park. Those looking to explore the lake can rent a canoe, kayak, or rowboat from Black Hill Boats and follow the Black Hill Water Trail for a closer look at the natural beauty of the area.

Great Seneca Stream Valley Park, located in Germantown, Maryland, is a stunning natural attraction spanning 1,557 acres. The park consists of nine units, with Unit 1 being the largest and home to the Seneca Creek Greenway Trail. Acquired by M-NCPPC in stages starting in 1968, the park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Montgomery County, where the park is located, is rich in natural beauty, bordered by the Potomac River to the west and the Patuxent to the east. The park is intersected by several stream valleys, including Great Seneca, where Indigenous groups lived and thrived for thousands of years. These tribes settled in villages along the stream banks, where they grew crops and engaged in hunting, fishing, and gathering.

Loch Raven Reservoir Park is a stunning 1,600-acre park located in Phoenix, Maryland, United States. Owned by the City of Baltimore, this park is managed to protect the reservoir and offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy year-round. From hiking and bird watching to rowing and fishing, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Loch Raven Reservoir Park. The park is also home to the Loch Raven Reservoir Cooperative Wildlife Management Area, which provides habitat for a variety of wildlife species such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, rabbits, squirrels, and songbirds. Hunting is permitted during regulated seasons, and a free permit is required for hunting activities.

The Isle of Wight Department of Natural Resources Management Area is a picturesque island located in Assawoman Bay, Maryland. Spanning 200 acres of marsh and forests, this area is dedicated to wildlife conservation and attracts a variety of waterfowl and marsh birds. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, and hunting opportunities on the island, as well as stunning views of the Ocean City skyline and Assawoman Bay. Managed by Maryland's Department of Natural Resources Wildlife and Heritage Service, this area is part of the state's public land system and aims to conserve and enhance wildlife populations and habitats. Funding for conservation efforts comes from hunting license fees and federal aid, ensuring the sustainability of Maryland's natural resources. Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse wildlife and recreational activities available at the Isle of Wight Department of Natural Resources Management Area.

Valley Mill Special Park is a charming and picturesque tourist attraction located at 1620 East Randolph Road in Colesville, Maryland. This serene park offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery, tranquil streams, and scenic hiking trails. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind in nature or embark on an outdoor adventure, Valley Mill Special Park has something for everyone. Come explore this hidden gem and discover the beauty of the great outdoors in the heart of Maryland.

Paint Branch Stream Valley Park is a stunning natural area located in College Park, Maryland, United States. This 1,200-acre park is known for its high-quality natural resources, including seeps, wetlands, and coldwater tributaries that support a diverse aquatic ecosystem. The park is home to a self-sustaining brown trout population, making it a nationally renowned coldwater fishery within an urban setting. Visitors to Upper Paint Branch Stream Valley Park can explore rich wetlands filled with native plants like mayapple, skunk cabbage, and spring beauty. These wetlands play a crucial role in supporting plant and wildlife diversity, filtering pollutants, and maintaining high water quality for sensitive organisms like spawning trout. The park also features various tributaries, each with unique aquatic and terrestrial communities, such as the Good Hope Tributary with its diverse forest and wildflower species.

Prettyboy Reservoir Park, located in Hampstead, Maryland, is a 7,380-acre area owned by the City of Baltimore and managed to protect the reservoir. Visitors can enjoy hiking, rowing, bird watching, horseback riding, and nature photography year-round. The park also offers fishing opportunities and is managed for various fish species. Prettyboy Reservoir is primarily located in northwestern Baltimore County with a small portion extending into northeastern Carroll County. The water from the reservoir is transferred to Loch Raven Reservoir via Gunpowder Falls before being treated and distributed to Baltimore. The area is also open for archery hunting during regulated seasons. The Baltimore Environmental Police safeguard the water supply and provide law enforcement services on the City's water supply lands. Prettyboy Reservoir CWMA hunting access is managed by the Wildlife and Heritage Service, which aims to conserve wildlife populations and habitats for public enjoyment. Visitors can engage in various activities at the park, but hunting permits are required during hunting seasons. The park is open year-round to non-hunters, and visitors are advised to be aware of active hunting seasons. For a complete guide to regulations at the reservoir, visitors can refer to the provided link. The institution also provides information on the National Human Trafficking Hotline and the fraud hotline operated by the Maryland General Assembly's Office of Legislative Audits.

Prettyboy Hike Trail, located at 3700 Beckleysville Road in Parkton, Maryland, is part of the Prettyboy Reservoir Cooperative Wildlife Management Area. This 7,380-acre area is owned by the City of Baltimore and offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, rowing, bird watching, horseback riding, and nature photography. Visitors can also enjoy fishing opportunities in the reservoir, which is home to a variety of fish species. The Prettyboy Reservoir CWMA is managed by the Wildlife and Heritage Service, with a focus on conserving wildlife populations and habitats while providing for public enjoyment through hunting and wildlife-dependent recreation. Hunting is permitted during legal seasons with restrictions, and a free permit is required.

Myrtle Grove Wildlife Management Area is located in Charles County, Maryland near La Plata, United States. It encompasses the forested bottomlands of Mattawoman Creek and was once home to the Piscataway Indians. The original tract of 754 acres was acquired by the State of Maryland in 1929, and has since grown to 5,190 acres, making it the largest Wildlife Management Area in the Southern Region. The area is managed by the Wildlife and Heritage Service, with a focus on conserving diverse wildlife populations and habitats for public enjoyment through hunting and wildlife-dependent recreation. The Myrtle Grove Wildlife Office issues Free Public Hunting Permits and takes reservations for public hunting properties in the Southern Region. The area features mature uplands and bottomland forests, wildlife food plots, greentree reservoirs for waterfowl, and a 23-acre lake stocked with rainbow trout for fishing and kayaking. Hunting is permitted during legal seasons, and the area is home to a public shooting range with specific restrictions.

Truxtun Park is a beautiful and expansive park located at 273 Hilltop Lane in Annapolis, Maryland. This popular tourist attraction offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy, including walking trails, playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. The park also features a serene pond, perfect for fishing or simply relaxing by the water. With its lush greenery and scenic views, Truxtun Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Liberty Reservoir, located at 5685 Oakland Road in Eldersburg, Maryland, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction that offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Owned by the City of Baltimore, this 9,200 acre Cooperative Wildlife Management Area is managed to protect the reservoir and its surrounding natural habitats. Visitors to Liberty Reservoir can partake in activities such as hiking, rowing or paddle boating, bird watching, horseback riding, and nature photography. The area is also open for archery hunting during a regulated season, providing opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the diverse wildlife populations that call the reservoir home.

Capt. Phil Gootee Fishing Charters and Tours offers unforgettable fishing experiences in the beautiful waters of Chesapeake Bay, Maryland. Led by Captain Phil, a seasoned pro angler, and expert guide, guests can expect to target a variety of fish species such as Stripers, Cobia, Seatrout, and more. With decades of professional experience, Captain Phil ensures an exciting and successful fishing trip for all guests. Located at 1439 Hoopers Island Road, Church Creek, Maryland, Capt. Phil Gootee Fishing Charters and Tours provides top-notch fishing charters that cater to both novice and experienced anglers. The charter targets popular fish species like Striped Bass, Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, and Redfish in locations such as Church Creek, Charles Creek, Tangier Sound, and more.

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service is dedicated to conserving, protecting, and enhancing fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the benefit of the American people. With over 560 National Wildlife Refuges, 70 national fish hatcheries, and numerous regional and field offices across the country, the institution is actively involved in thousands of conservation projects. Established in 1871, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is the only federal agency responsible for managing fish and wildlife resources in the public trust. Whether you're looking to experience nature, partner with us, seek technical advice, permits, grants, or scientific research, or get involved in conservation efforts, the Service has a lot to offer. Visit one of our many locations, such as the Northern Tallgrass Prairie National Wildlife Refuge, to learn more about our mission and initiatives. Please note that we do not guarantee the accessibility of external websites we link to, and inclusion of links does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Woods and Water Camping MD is a serene park located at 27178 Fairmount Road in Westover, Maryland, United States. Nestled among lush woods and tranquil waters, this campground offers a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching in the beautiful natural surroundings. Whether you're looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or a family-friendly adventure, Woods and Water Camping MD is the perfect destination for nature lovers.

Calvin Mowbray Park and Stephen Camper Park is a beautiful outdoor recreational facility located at 700 Weaver Avenue in Cambridge, Maryland, United States. The park offers a variety of amenities including hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and camping sites. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding nature while participating in outdoor activities such as fishing, bird watching, and kayaking. The park is a popular destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and campers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the great outdoors. With its convenient location and abundance of recreational opportunities, Calvin Mowbray Park and Stephen Camper Park is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature.