If you’re anything like us, the snows of winter turn our thoughts to the warmth and energy of spring. Spring in Charles County is one of our favorite times of year! There are plenty of things to do, from afternoons at the farm to waterfront play at Mallows Bay, and the outdoors come alive as temperatures rise. Whether you’re coming into town on a day trip or you’ve visited Charles County many times, be sure to check out our top 10 things to do in Charles County!

Strawberry Picking at Shlagel Farms

According to our friends at Shlagel Farms, the best strawberries are the ones you pick yourself. We couldn’t agree more! Shlagel Farms is a third-generation produce farm that operates year-round. Spend the afternoon out in the warm fields picking strawberries with your family and friends. You can also stop by their market to buy seasonal fruits, vegetables, farm-raised meat, honey, and eggs. Strawberry season typically runs from May to June, but keep an eye out – the Shlagels hope to pick berries in April!

Gilbert Run Park

The arrival of spring means more outdoor fun in Charles County’s fabulous parks, especially when it comes to water activities! Gilbert Run Park boasts a 60-acre freshwater lake and hosts a variety of activities including fishing, pedal boating, rowing, and canoeing. If you bring your own rowboat or canoe, the park offers a boat ramp for your convenience. If the spring water is still too cold for you, take a hike on the trails surrounding the lake that lead to playgrounds, picnic tables, and volleyball courts.

Indian Head Rail Trail

A regional favorite, the Indian Head Rail Trail is an easy way to spend a day in the great outdoors of Charles County. The Rail Trail, extending from the Town of Indian Head to the White Plains areas of Charles County, is an old railway converted into a 13-mile walking, running, and cycling trail. Passing through the Mattawoman Creek stream valley, you’re able to take in the scenic wildlife and spring blooms at your preferred pace.

Mallows Bay

The marine sanctuary located on the Potomac River, Mallows Bay is one of the jewels of the area. Nothing beats an afternoon spent kayaking above more than 100 shipwrecks, sailing through the ghost fleet, and exploring the local wildlife through hiking, bird-watching, and fishing opportunities. Guided bay tours are available through Atlantic Kayak, or you can take a self-guided kayak tour!

Waterfront Dining

Nothing says spring in Maryland like the reopening of waterfront dining. Captain Billy’s Crab House – recently featured on Real Housewives of the Potomac – offers a fantastic view of the Potomac River. Captain John’s Crab House & Marina provides guests with the sights of the Neale Sound and Cobb Island at the southern end of Charles County. At both restaurants, you’ll experience some of the best seafood Charles County has to offer.

Southern Maryland Paintball & Airsoft

Southern Maryland Paintball & Airsoft is all about an epic afternoon. Explore over 50 acres of gameplay courses and fill your day with paintball, gellyball, airsoft, and axe-throwing. From birthday and bachelor parties to corporate team-building trips, everyone can join in on the fun – even if you’re a weekend walk-on!

The RAD House

Grab a bite, a brew, and a glass of bourbon at The RAD House, a local La Plata restaurant that brings a big city feel to a small town. Whether you’re sipping an award-winning espresso martini or sampling the vast selection of craft beers, there’s a drink for everyone, and the creative bartenders make sure of that.

Blk & Lit Candle Bar

Blk & Lit Candle Bar is a DIY experience that offers workshops for candles, lip gloss, and perfumes and colognes. Learn a new skill or simply unwind as you craft your own signature scents with family and friends. Blk & Lit workshops run from an hour to 90 minutes – every creation is unique, and you won’t want to miss it.

Hooked! on the Potomac

“Hooked! on the Potomac” is a brand-new festival coming to Indian Head in Summer 2025 to celebrate all things fish! Alongside this celebration, Charles County will also host the Major League Fishing’s Bass Pro Tour. Come join in the fun with your whole family to enjoy family-friendly activities, lots of food, and – of course – fishing!

Spring Concerts

The newest addition to the excitement in Charles County, our upcoming concert series promises to be a blast. Keep an eye on our events page for announcements about featured artists, venues, and concert dates. Let us know on our social media who you’re interested in seeing perform!

Charles County MD, Travel Article

Julia Koslowsky