The 30 Best Wildlife watching areas in Maryland

Johnson Wildlife Management Area is a 468-acre park and zoo located in Salisbury, Maryland, United States. Originally established in 1926 as a game refuge, the area has since expanded to include additional parcels of land purchased in 2017. Home to a variety of forest-dependent wildlife, including colorful songbirds and mammals such as white-tailed deer and wild turkeys, Johnson WMA is a popular spot for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. The area also features unmarked trails for hiking, bird-watching, and nature photography. Managed by Maryland's Department of Natural Resources, the primary mission of the WMA system is to conserve and enhance wildlife populations and habitats while providing recreational opportunities for the public. Funding for the state's wildlife programs comes from hunting license fees and federal aid, with additional support from Program Open Space Funding. The Department of Natural Resources is committed to securing a sustainable future for Maryland's natural resources, and operates a fraud hotline to report any misuse of state resources.

Susquehanna National Wildlife Refuge is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 2145 Key Wallace Drive in Cambridge, Maryland, United States. This refuge offers visitors the chance to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area, with opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and picnicking. The refuge is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including waterfowl, deer, and bald eagles, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. With its peaceful atmosphere and picturesque landscapes, Susquehanna National Wildlife Refuge is the perfect place to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Grove Farm Wildlife Management Area, located at 1989-2103 Grove Neck Road in Earleville, Maryland, is a 988-acre tract dedicated to wildlife conservation. Managed by the Wildlife and Heritage Service, the area provides habitat for a variety of wildlife species including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and songbirds. The property includes agricultural crops, forests, tidal swamps, and marshes, as well as a sandy beach/cliff outcrop that is home to the federally threatened Puritan Tiger Beetle. Public hunting is permitted during legal hunting seasons with a free permit required. The area is open year-round to non-hunters for recreational activities such as hiking and birdwatching. Funding for Maryland's state wildlife programs comes from hunting license fees and federal aid, with additional support from Program Open Space Funding for parks and conservation areas. The Department of Natural Resources is committed to preserving and protecting the state's natural resources, and operates hotlines for reporting human trafficking and fraud.

Fair Hill State Natural Resources Management Area is a 5,656-acre park located in Elkton, Maryland, United States. Managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, this area is known for its pristine fields, woodlands, and natural beauty. Originally owned by William duPont, Jr., Fair Hill offers a variety of recreational activities and is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can enjoy the Tea Barn, Racetrack, Fairgrounds, Walls Activity Hall, and Equestrian Camping area within the park. The area is also famous for hosting the Maryland 5 Star event every October, a prestigious equestrian competition showcasing Dressage, Cross-Country, and Show Jumping.

Pig Tail Recreation Area is a charming park located at 5536-5598 Green Bridge Road in Dayton, Maryland, United States. This peaceful retreat offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature. With its scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds, Pig Tail Recreation Area is the perfect spot for a family outing or a relaxing afternoon in the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the lush greenery or have a fun-filled day of activities with your loved ones, this park has something for everyone to enjoy. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of Pig Tail Recreation Area today!

Patuxent River Park - Jug Bay Natural Area is a beautiful park located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, United States. This institution offers visitors a chance to explore and experience the natural beauty of the Patuxent River and its surrounding wetlands. With over 2,000 acres of protected land, visitors can enjoy hiking, bird watching, kayaking, and more. The park also offers educational programs and events to help visitors learn about the local ecosystem and wildlife. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an outdoor adventure, Patuxent River Park - Jug Bay Natural Area has something for everyone.

Watkins Mill Recreation Area is a beautiful outdoor park located at 19501 Club Lake Road in Montgomery Village, Maryland. This popular recreational spot offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking trails, picnic areas, fishing spots, and a scenic lake. The park is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. With its serene atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings, Watkins Mill Recreation Area is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Edward A. DeSimon Recreation Area is a sprawling park located at 8600 East Village Avenue in Montgomery Village, Maryland, United States. This popular recreational spot offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages, including playgrounds, sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas. The park is named after Edward A. DeSimon, a prominent figure in the community who played a key role in the development of recreational facilities in the area. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or get active with friends and family, the Edward A. DeSimon Recreation Area is the perfect destination for a day of fun and relaxation.

Mineral Springs Neighborhood Conservation Area is a beautiful park located at 17800 Cottonwood Terrace in Gaithersburg, Maryland. This conservation area is a serene and peaceful retreat where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and scenic views, Mineral Springs Neighborhood Conservation Area is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, go for a jog, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the fresh air, this park offers something for everyone. Come visit Mineral Springs Neighborhood Conservation Area and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in Gaithersburg.

Greenbury Point Conservation Area is a stunning natural oasis located in Annapolis, Maryland, United States. This park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the chance to explore and enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife that call this area home. With its lush greenery, tranquil atmosphere, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, Greenbury Point Conservation Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely hike, birdwatch, or simply relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings, this park has something for everyone to enjoy. Come and experience the beauty and serenity of Greenbury Point Conservation Area for yourself.

Patapsco Valley State Park - Hollofield Area is a beautiful park located in Ellicott City, Maryland. With 16,043 acres of land along the Patapsco River, the park offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, canoeing, horseback riding, and mountain biking. The park is also known for its historic sites, including some of Maryland's earliest mills and factories. Visitors can explore over 200 miles of trails, with 70 miles of maintained trails for hiking and biking. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the Barred Owl, which can be spotted during the fall season. The park is open from 9 a.m. to sunset, with some activities allowed outside of regular hours.

Located in Halethorpe, Maryland, the Patapsco Valley State Park - Avalon Area offers miles of trails that lead hikers through stunning vistas, historic sites, babbling brooks, and picturesque waterfalls. This park provides a sense of wilderness just steps away from the Baltimore suburbs. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources leads efforts to preserve and protect the state's natural resources, ensuring a sustainable future for the environment, society, and economy. Additionally, the park is committed to promoting awareness and prevention of human trafficking through the National Human Trafficking Hotline. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature while also contributing to the protection of Maryland's resources.

Gunpowder Falls State Park- Jones Road Area is a beautiful park located in Kingsville, Maryland, United States. This serene and picturesque park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, picnicking, and bird watching. The park features lush forests, scenic trails, and the stunning Gunpowder Falls River, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its peaceful atmosphere and abundant wildlife, Gunpowder Falls State Park- Jones Road Area is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with the great outdoors.

Funks Pond Recreational Area is a beautiful park located in Maryland, United States. This peaceful and picturesque destination offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the tranquility of nature. The park features a serene pond where visitors can fish, paddle boat, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning views. With walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds, Funks Pond Recreational Area is the perfect place for families to spend quality time together outdoors. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun day out with loved ones, this park has something for everyone.

Bynum Run Conservation Area is a beautiful park located at 701 Cedar Knoll Drive in Bel Air, Maryland. This conservation area offers a peaceful and natural setting for visitors to enjoy the outdoors. With walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of Bynum Run, this park is the perfect spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush greenery, listen to the sounds of the running water, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this serene oasis. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day out or a place to connect with nature, Bynum Run Conservation Area is the ideal destination.

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.

Middle Patuxent Environmental Area is a serene and picturesque park located at 5795 Trotter Road in Clarksville, Maryland. This beautiful institution offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature and explore the diverse ecosystems of the area. With winding trails, lush forests, and peaceful streams, the Middle Patuxent Environmental Area is the perfect place for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a fun adventure, this park has something for everyone. Come visit and discover the beauty and tranquility of the Middle Patuxent Environmental Area.

Severn Run Environmental Area is a beautiful park located at 8737 Veterans Highway in Millersville, Maryland, United States. This institution is dedicated to preserving and protecting the natural environment, offering visitors a peaceful and scenic retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With walking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and educational programs, Severn Run Environmental Area is the perfect place to connect with nature and learn about the importance of conservation. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll through the woods or a chance to observe native plants and animals, this park has something for everyone to enjoy.

The Tundra Swan Boardwalk Parking Area is located at 1632-1636 Eastern Neck Island Road in Rock Hall, Maryland, United States. This parking area provides access to the Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge, a 2,285 acre island that serves as a habitat for thousands of wintering waterfowl, including the tundra swan. The refuge supports a variety of habitats such as brackish marsh, natural ponds, upland forest, and grasslands, and is designated as an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society. Visitors to the Tundra Swan Boardwalk Parking Area can enjoy birdwatching and wildlife viewing, with over 240 bird species, including bald eagles, calling the refuge home. The refuge also provides habitat for various mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. The bald eagle, with its impressive wingspan of about seven feet, is a prominent resident of the refuge.

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.

North Point Park is a picturesque park located in Damascus, Maryland, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful oasis with stunning views of nature. The park features lush greenery, walking paths, picnic areas, and a serene lake where visitors can relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply take in the beauty of the surroundings, North Point Park is the perfect 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.

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.

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.

Elk Neck State Park Nature Center is a museum and tourist attraction located in North East, Maryland, United States. Operated by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the park covers 2,370 acres of land with diverse landscapes including marshlands, wooded areas, cliffs, and sandy shorelines. The park is divided into four areas, including the Turkey Point Lighthouse Area, North East Beach Area, Rogues Harbor Boat Launch Facility, and Elk River Camping Area. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, swimming areas, boating access, camping sites, cabins, and a nature center. The park is currently undergoing improvements, including the replacement of rustic cabins, restoration of a CCC-era cabin, and renovation of bathhouses. For reservations and updates on park access, visitors can contact the reservations center or visit the park's website. Elk Neck State Park is committed to preserving and protecting Maryland's natural resources and offers a unique outdoor experience for visitors to enjoy.

Plumpton County Park is a beautiful park located in Rising Sun, Maryland, United States. This sprawling park offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature with its lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and serene picnic areas. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or get active with outdoor activities, Plumpton County Park has something for everyone. Perfect for a family day out, a romantic stroll, or a solo nature walk, this park is a hidden gem in the heart of Maryland. Come explore the beauty and tranquility of Plumpton County Park today!

Salisbury City Park is a beautiful outdoor recreational space located on South Park Drive in Salisbury, Maryland, United States. This expansive park offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. From playgrounds and picnic areas to walking trails and sports fields, Salisbury City Park provides a perfect setting for relaxation and fun in the heart of the city. Whether you're looking to spend a day with family, have a peaceful solo stroll, or engage in some outdoor sports, this park has something for everyone. Come and explore the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that Salisbury City Park has to offer.

Park Lake is a serene and picturesque park located at 220 Beaver Dam Drive in Salisbury, Maryland, United States. This beautiful institution offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its tranquil lake, lush greenery, and scenic walking trails. Whether you're looking to relax with a picnic by the water, go for a leisurely stroll, or simply enjoy the natural surroundings, Park Lake is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in Salisbury.

The Dorchester County Visitor Center, located at 2 Rosehill Place in Cambridge, Maryland, is a local government office and travel agency that serves as a hub for exploring the beautiful Chesapeake Bay region. Discover the best weekend getaways in the heart of the Chesapeake, where you can experience the history and culture of the area, including the journey of Harriet Tubman, whose story began in Dorchester County. The center is operated by the Dorchester County Office of Tourism and offers information and resources to help visitors make the most of their time in the area. Plan your trip today and immerse yourself in the rich heritage and natural beauty of Dorchester County, Maryland.