Hiking

hiking IHRTCharles County is a hikers paradise with over 20,000 acres of park land to explore! We invite you to get outdoors and enjoy the beauty of the trails in Charles County. With countless picturesque trials carving through the backwoods of the county or along the peaceful Indian Head Rail Trail, there is something for every hiker who visits here.

Take in the breathtaking views while hiking along the shores of the Potomac or Patuxent rivers, or one of our scenic foot trails where bald eagles, white tail deer, wild turkey, and many more woodland creatures roam. Lace up your boots and let Charles County be the place for your next hiking adventure. 

For more information on what you can do while hiking in Charles County, visit Plan an Adventure.

  • Please note that the automated gate system at Chapel Point Park is now operational. Patrons will be charged $5 per vehicle, and that fee is payable by credit card only at the park entrance. Maryland State Park passes will be honored for entrance into Chapel Point Park this year. To receive an access code that works with our gate system, please bring your Annual Park Passport, Golden Age Pass, Universal Disability Pass, or Veteran/Military proof/ID to the Charles County Recreation, Parks & Tourism offices at 107 Centennial Street in La Plata during regular business hours (8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday).
  • The hours of operation are 8 a.m. – sunset daily. Vehicles left in the park after hours may be subject to ticketing and/or towing.
  • The park has a capacity of 30 vehicles. Once the park reaches capacity, visitors will be redirected to other area parks.
  • Parking in undesignated areas may result in ticketing and/or towing.
  • There are dips in the roadway to encourage people to maintain a speed of under 15 m.p.h. Please be mindful of these dips and drive slowly on the roadways. 

A list of park rules can be found at both main parking areas of the park, however we have included a few of the most asked ones below.

  • No alcohol
  • No glass containers.
  • No open flame. This includes campfires and grills.
  • Do not litter. All trash must be discarded in the trash cans provided throughout the park.
  • A Maryland Chesapeake Bay & Coastal Sport Fish License is required for anyone fishing age 16 and older.
  • This park has an unguarded beach. Enter the water at your own risk.
  • No metal detecting.
  • No amplified sound.
  • No dirt bikes, go-carts, or A.T.V. vehicles allowed in park.
  • Pets must be on leash.
  • Park staff are authorized agents of the Department of Recreation, Parks & Tourism. Directions from the staff are to be followed.
Return to full list >>