kayaking

Mattawoman Creek – Indian Head

• Type: Tidal freshwater estuary

• Best For: Calm flatwater paddling, wildlife photography, birdwatching

• Highlights: Great blue herons, ospreys, beaver lodges, blooming water lilies in summer

• Access Point: Slavin's Dock on Mattingly Avenue

• Rental: Atlantic Kayak offers guided tours and hourly rentals

"Mattawoman Creek is one of the most productive fish-spawning tributaries in the Chesapeake Bay," according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Mallows Bay – Nanjemoy

• Type: Potomac River embayment

• Best For: Paddling through shipwrecks, historical exploration

• Highlights: Over 100 ghost ship remains, National Marine Sanctuary, eagles and turtles

• Access Point: Mallows Bay Park soft launch

• Best Season: Spring–Fall

"A hauntingly beautiful paddle through America’s largest ship graveyard." – Paddling Magazine

Nanjemoy Creek – Friendship Landing

• Type: Quiet tributary of the Potomac

• Best For: Secluded paddles, fishing from kayak

• Highlights: Forested shoreline, bald eagle sightings, aquatic vegetation

• Access Point: Friendship Landing boat ramp

• Nearby: Nanjemoy Wildlife Management Area trails

Indian Head to Mattawoman Creek Loop (3–5 miles)

• Launch at Slavin’s Dock

• Paddle up the creek through lily fields

• Loop back with a stop near the wetlands for birdwatching

Mallows Bay Shipwreck Tour (2–4 miles)

• Launch at Mallows Bay Park

• Paddle around the remains of WWI-era steamships

• Ideal for early morning paddles when the water is calm

Nanjemoy Creek Wilderness Run (4–6 miles)

• Launch at Friendship Landing

• Follow the creek inland to spot beavers, deer, and shorebirds

• Great for sunset paddles