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.

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    Bensville Park

    This park provides a playground, zipline, & basketball court with access to the IHRT.
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    Cedarville State Forest

    Enjoy 19.5 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails.
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    Chapel Point Park

    Multi-use park that boasts a waterfront on the beautiful Port Tobacco River.
  • Chapman State Park

    Chapman State Park

    Find mature forests, rare plants and bald eagles frequenting the skies above.
  • Chicamuxen WMA

    Chicamuxen WMA

    Prime marshlands and uplands for the outdoorsman.
  • friendship web

    Friendship Farm Park - Friendship Landing

    Located in Nanjemoy, this 382 acre park offers hiking, fishing, and a public boat ramp.
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    Gilbert Run Park

    This family friendly park offers playgrounds, fishing, hiking, biking, kayaking, paddle boats & more!
  • Indian Head Rail Trail

    Indian Head Rail Trail

    This 13-mile bike trail is a unique opportunity to enjoy undeveloped natural areas.
  • Mallows Bay

    Mallows Bay Park

    Paddle through the WWI Ghost Fleet, the largest ship graveyard in the Western Hemisphere.
  • Maxwell Hall trails

    Maxwell Hall Park

    Featuring 14.2 miles of hiking trails along the Patuxent river and expansive wildlife.
  • Myrtle Grove WMA

    Myrtle Grove Wildlife Management Area

    At 5190 acres Myrtle Grove is the largest WMA in SOMD with an abundance of wildlife.
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    Pisgah Park

    Bring the family for a trip around the 7.5 mile walking fitness trail with play pockets!
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    Port Tobacco River Park

    Home to the Eagle Cam, this park offers 3 miles of trails and an abundance of bird watching.
  • RuthBSwannPark_05242023 (36)-X3

    Ruth B. Swann Memorial Park

    This family friendly park offers picnicking, hiking, shore fishing and birdwatching.
  • SmallwoodStatePark_10262023 (11)-X3

    Smallwood State Park

    Offering a wide variety of amenities such as hiking, water access, playgrounds, and camping.
  • Thomas Stone House

    Thomas Stone National Historic Site

    A Southern Maryland tobacco farm with a unique five-part colonial mansion.