Area Attractions in-and-around Indian Head and Charles County

Living in Indian Head affords you the ability to take your four-legged friends on many adventures around Charles County, MD. Parks listed in Blue and Yellow are Othello and Levi approved favorites and we are regular guests.

Town of Indian Head Parks:

    Riverwatch Upland and Riverwalk is located on 165 Riverwatch Dr, Indian Head, MD 20640. 

Visitors to the Boardwalk will experience a 1,200 feet Upland Nature Walk that meanders through 10 acres of wooded Town-owned property that couples to a 1,200 feet Riverwalk along the Potomac River shoreline.

Any visitor who explores the Upland Nature Walk will experience a total immersion in nature, complete with bald eagles nesting overhead. Once upon the Upland Nature Walk, explorers will be able to walk past and touch trees that are over 100 years old, plus observe natural ecosystems, such as mature wetlands as the walk gives way to the Potomac River.

Once visitors reach the Potomac River, the Upland Nature Walk transitions to the Town of Indian Head’s Riverwalk and Living Shoreline. The Riverwalk stretches along the Indian Head Cliffs for approximately 1,200 feet. As visitor’s travel on the Riverwalk, they are able to look across the Potomac River to many points in Virginia. The constructed Living Shoreline that is situated between the Riverwalk and the Indian Head Cliffs allows for visitors to observe natural processes coupled with geologic history. Deposited natural driftwood covers the shoreline and helps to armor the toe of the cliffs and protect against erosion. Naturally planted grasses help secure the sands along the shoreline from eroding, as well.

The Town of Indian Head Upland Nature Walk and Riverwalk totals 2,400 linear feet that takes visitors on an unparalleled journey through multiple different ecosystems. Indian Head is the only town in Maryland that possesses a boardwalk of such magnitude.

    Mattingly Park is located on 105 Mattingly Ave, Indian Head, MD 20640.

 This newly expanded park with pavilion, buffers the Mattawoman Creek from the residential development and provides a playground and areas for picnicking. The pavilion is available for use by the public, and is available at a first come first serve basis at this time. The park is open during daylight hours and closes at dusk. Indoor bathroom facilities are available April 1st - October 31st during operational hours.  No alcohol permitted.

    Slavin's Dock is located on the end of Mattingly Ave on the Mattawoman Creek.  Features a full length fishing pier, boat and kayak launch cove. Canoes, bicycles and kayaks are available for rent from Atlantic Kayak & Canoe, located near the dock. Boat parking available.

    Charlie Wright Park is located on 101 Dr. Mitchell Ln, Indian Head, MD 20640.

This athletic park boasts 2 soccer fields, 2 little league baseball fields, one regulation baseball field and a practice football field area. Indian Head Elementary School, which allows evening use of playground and basketball facilities, is adjacent.  Use of fields by permit only. For more information, please call 301-932-3470.

    The Village Green Park and Pavilion is located on 100 Walter Thomas Rd, Indian Head, MD 20640.

Located immediately off Indian Head Hwy outside the NSF Navy Base and sits on 9.5 acres of open space. A covered out-door stage faces the South lawn area.  Perfect for festivals, large gatherings and outdoor concerts. It is also the end/beginning of the Indian Head Rail Trail (see county parks) and the parking location for bike riders and visiting guests. From the Village Green Park, cross the street at the U.S. Postal Office and follow Mattingly Avenue about two blocks to the official start of the paved rail-trail.

County Parks

    Bensville Park is located on 6980 Bensville Road, White Plains, MD 20695.

This park provides a playground, zipline, basketball court, and large grassy multi-use field for general community use (all other fields require a permit). Amenities include: Basketball Court, Pavillion, Picnic Tables, Playground, Restrooms, Softball Field, Trail.

Friendship Farm Park is located on 4715 Friendship Landing Rd, Nanjemoy, MD 20662

Friendship Farm Park/Friendship Landing is located on Friendship Landing Road, just off Route 425 in Nanjemoy. This 382 acre scenic park overlooks the Nanjemoy Creek and offers a variety of recreational activities from hiking and fishing to playing baseball. A county-owned single lane boat ramp offers easy access to the Potomac River and is open year-round, from dawn to dusk, to the public. Fishing from the pier and shoreline is permitted. Parking for approximately 16 trailers.

The Department of Natural Resources has designated this park as a free fishing area - anglers are not required to possess a fishing license. Two trail loops offer hikers and nature lovers nearly 4 miles of waterfront and woodland hiking opportunities. Amenities such as interpretative signs, benches, and observation decks are highlights along the trail.  The trails are open for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and equestrians. Three athletic fields are also located at Friendship Farm Park. These fields include two little league fields and one regulation baseball field. Athletic fields are for official league use-by permit only.

Amenities: Biking, Boat Ramps and Marina, Fishing, Hiking, Parks, and Wildlife.

Indian Head Rail Trail [IHRT] is located between 10390 Theodore Green Blvd, White Plains, MD 20695 and The Village Green Park and Pavilion located at 100 Walter Thomas Road, Indian Head Hwy, Indian Head, MD 20640. Without a doubt, the IHRT is a unique opportunity to enjoy some of Southern Maryland’s most undeveloped natural areas. Originally built in 1918 as a supply route for the Navy’s Indian Head Powder Factory, this elevated rail bed passes through the Mattawoman Creek stream valley. Cyclists, hikers and nature enthusiasts will experience the surroundings of mature forests, natural wetlands, and occasional farmland. Wildlife abounds! Visiting the IHRT is almost like stepping back in time. Amenities: Trail, Biking, Hiking, Park, Wildlife.

Parking: No parking available directly at Mattingly Avenue trailhead. Park across Route 210 at either the Village Green Town Park or Charlie Wright Park (adjacent to Indian Head Elementary School). Right turn off of Route 210 onto Doctor Andrews Way - bear left just before baseball field onto Doctor Mitchell Lane. After parking, follow signs/road markings to the trail.

From Route 301, make a right turn onto Theodore Green Boulevard. Approximately ¼ mile, trail parking is on the right side of the road. Weekend (only) overflow parking is available at the Charles County Health Department parking lot (intersection of Route 301 and Theodore Green Boulevard).

Located between Waldorf and Pomfret on Bensville Road (Route 229), the park offers ample Rail Trail parking, restrooms and a paved connector trail to the IHRT near Mile Marker 9.

Laurel Springs Regional Park is located on 5940 Radio Station Road, La Plata, MD 20646.

Relax – two small picnic pavilions and several informal areas with picnic tables are available for you and your family to relax at. Organized parties/events are not permitted in the pavilion area.

Play – enjoy our playground that has an emphasis on special needs play and houses our new wheelchair swing. Athletic playing areas (baseball, softball, little league, football, and soccer fields) are available for official league use by permit only. A number of these fields are lighted for evening play.
Run – fitness enthusiasts can run or walk on our natural surface trail that loops through the wooded perimeter of the park.
Amenities: Baseball/Softball Field, Football/Soccer Field, Pavilion, Picnic Tables, Playground, Restroom, and Trail.

    Maxwell Hall Park is located on 6680 Maxwell Drive, Hughesville, MD. 

A small picnic pavilion is available for you and your family to relax at. Organized parties/events are not permitted.

Connect to the Indian Head Rail Trail at Mile Marker 9 for a bike ride, walk, or run, on the paved trail. Parking and restrooms are also provided.

Gilbert Run Park is located on 13140 Charles St, Charlotte Hall, MD 20622. It is located 8 miles east of La Plata on Route 6. Within this scenic wooded parkland are hiking and nature trails, picnic areas (grills and tables), picnic pavilions, playground areas, and fishing piers. The main attraction is a 60 acre fresh water lake which affords fishing, pedal boating, row boating and canoeing. Fishermen are able to catch bass, bluegill, trout and catfish. A boat ramp is also provided for your convenience (electric motors only). Amenities include: BBQ Grills, Boat Ramp, Fishing, Lake, Pavilion, Picnic Tables, Playground, Restroom, Trail, and Volleyball Court.

Relax – two small picnic pavilions and several informal areas with picnic tables are available for you and your family to relax at. Organized parties/events are not permitted in the pavilion area.

Play – enjoy our playground that has an emphasis on special needs play and houses our new wheelchair swing. Athletic playing areas (baseball, softball, little league, football, and soccer fields) are available for official league use by permit only. A number of these fields are lighted for evening play.
Run – fitness enthusiasts can run or walk on our natural surface trail that loops through the wooded perimeter of the park.
Amenities include: Baseball Field, Softball Field, Football/Soccer Field, Pavilion, Picnic Tables, Playground, Restroom, Trail.

    Mallows Bay Park is located on 1440 Wilson Landing Rd, Nanjemoy, MD 20662. This is one of our hooman's favorite places to Kayak on the Potomac River.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the State of Maryland and Charles County have announced the designation of a new national marine sanctuary to protect the remains of more than 100 abandoned steamships and vessels built as part of America’s engagement in World War I. Located along an 18-square mile stretch of Potomac River coast in Charles County, Maryland, the new sanctuary boasts a collection of historic shipwrecks dating back to the Civil War, as well as archaeological artifacts nearly 12,000 years old. Its culturally rich landscape also includes sites that represent the history of Native American communities in the area, the once-booming Potomac River fishing industry, and the Civil War. Read more about the designation here.
Mallows Bay Park offers excellent outdoor recreation opportunities. Tremendous wildlife viewing areas, single ramp small boating (shallow water) access to the Potomac River, kayak launch, fishing and hiking. Gravel parking for 20 trailers. Paddle through the WWI Ghost Fleet, the largest ship graveyard in the Western Hemisphere.
Follow this link to the Chesapeake Conservancy website and view the 360 Virtual Tours.
Amenities include: Boat Ramp, Fishing, and Trail.

    Oak Ridge Park is located on 13675 Oak Ridge Rd, Hughesville, MD 20637. Located on Maxwell Drive in Hughesville, MD, this Charles County park features 14.2 miles of diverse riding trails, open fields, a jump course, wooded areas, steep terrain, shoreline, beach rest locations, and a trail course. Maxwell Hall Park is a membership-only facility for equestrians.
Hike – all 14.2 miles of trails are open to hikers and nature enthusiasts. Hiker parking is available at the Equestrian Area entrance and on Teagues Point Rd.
Ride – equestrian riding trails, open fields, a jump course, wooded areas, steep terrain, shoreline, beach rest locations, and a trail course are open to our members only.
Amenities include: Trail, Equestrian Trail

    Pisgah Park is located on 6645 Mason Springs Rd, La Plata, MD 20646.
Walk – bring the entire family for a walk, jog, or bike ride on the .75 mile paved walking/fitness trail where children can explore themed play pockets. This park/trail is dog-friendly but leashes are required.
Play – enjoy the playground, get creative on the nature-inspired play-trail that combines play and nature interpretation, or play a game of softball; one softball field is available for drop-in play, various type sports fields are open for organized league use only.
Relax – a small pavilion is provided for rest and shade. Restrooms, benches and water fountains are available.
Amenities: Athletic Field, Pavilion, Playground, Restroom, Ball Field, and Trail.

    Port Tobacco River Park and Tom Roland Natural Resource Area is on 7685 Chapel Point Rd, Port Tobacco, MD 20677.

Hike – enjoy 3 miles of walking trails, open year round.

Wildlife – observation platforms are housed on portions of the trail, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Relax – the picnic grove is available for you and your family to enjoy.

Amenities: Eagle Cam, Picnic Tables, and Trail

Ruth B. Swann Memorial Park is located 3100 Ruth B. Swann Dr, Bryans Road, MD 20616.

Ruth B. Swann Park is located in Bryans Road off Route 210. This western area park borders the historic Pomonkey Creek and the Potomac River. A combination of both active and passive recreational activities are available from large open areas for soccer and baseball to picnicking, hiking, shore fishing, and bird watching. Located at this park is a lighted baseball/little league field and football/soccer field that are available to organized leagues during the playing seasons by permit only. Picnic areas and a playground are available on a first come, first served basis. Hikers can take advantage of the one mile foot trail which passes through mature woodland on its way to the shoreline of the Potomac River. 

Amenities: Fishing, Hiking, Parks, and Wildlife.

Turkey Hill Park is located on 9430 Turkey Hill Rd, La Plata, MD 20646.

Play – let your four-legged friends off their leash in our enclosed dog park or use our multi-purpose area for informal recreation activities. Athletic fields are available for permit use only. Also, try out our Disc Golf Course!

Run – fitness enthusiasts can run or walk on our half-mile oval roadway.

Relax – in one of our two picnic pavilions.

Amenities: Athletic Field, Disk Golf Course, DOG PARK - WOOF WOOF, Football/Soccer Field, Pavilion, Picnic Tables, and Trails.

White Plains Regional Park is located on 1015 St. Charles Prkwy, White Plains, MD 20695.

Golf – get a round in at our 18 hole golf course. Find more information at White Plains Golf Course.

Skate – skateboarders and in-line skaters can skate away in our 15,000 square foot concrete skatepark for free. Visit our Skatepark Page for more information.

Play – take advantage of our Foot Golf course, lighted tennis courts and pickleball courts, tot lot, playground, and dog park. Athletic fields are available for official league use by permit only. The little league field is available for community pick-up play when not scheduled for official league use.

Amenities: Baseball/Softball/Football/Soccer Fields, Dog Park, Golf Course, Pavilion, Pickleball, Picknick Tables, Playground, Skate Park, Tennis Court, and Tot Lot.

State Parks

    Chapman State Park is located on 3452 Ferry Pl, Indian Head, MD 20640.

Visitors to Chapman State Park enjoy a journey through time to Southern Maryland's pastoral heritage, finding mature forests, rare plants and bald eagles frequenting the skies above. Park visitors also discover the Mt. Aventine Mansion, the historic home of the prominent Chapman family, who were closely tied to the families of our Founding Fathers George Washington and George Mason. Standing in front of the Chapmans' grand estate, looking down the Potomac River and Virginia shoreline, is one of the most striking views in the region. Preserved in 1998 by the State of Maryland's Program Open Space (POS), Chapman State Park stretches from the Potomac River to Mattawoman Creek, in western Charles County. The park is a dramatic reminder of the great woodlands that once cradled the Potomac tidewater region.​

    Smallwood State Park is located on 2750 Sweden Point Rd, Marbury, MD 20658.

Smallwood State Park takes its name from General William Smallwood, a native born Charles Countian. He was the highest ranked Marylander who served in the American Revolutionary War. His house, called Smallwood's Retreat, has been restored and is open to visitors seasonally. The 628 acre park offers a marina, boat launching ramps, a picnic area, camping area, pavilions, a recycled tire playground and nature trails. On occasion, there are craft demonstrations, military exhibitions and other special events.

    Chapel Point State Park is located on Chapel Point Road, Bel Alton, MD.

Chapel Point is an undeveloped multi-use park that boasts a waterfront on the beautiful Port Tobacco River, a tributary of the Potomac River. The 600-acre Chapel Point State Park is located in southern Charles County, about 5 miles south of LaPlata on Chapel Point Road.

From the Route 6 and Route 301 intersection, take Route 301 south to Chapel Point Road. Follow Chapel Point Road in a westerly direction for approximately 2.3 miles to the park entrance.

Federal Parks

    Piscataway Park is located on 3400 Bryan Point Rd, Accokeek, MD 20607.

A place of great natural beauty...

Piscataway Park is home to bald eagles, beavers, deer, foxes, ospreys, and many other species. To complement the surroundings, the park has, in addition to a public fishing pier and two boardwalks over fresh water tidal wetlands, a variety of nature trails, meadows, and woodland areas. The Park is also home to National Colonial Farm.

    Thomas Stone National Historic Site is located on 6655 Rose Hill Road, Port Tobacco, MD 20677.

"You Know My Heart Wishes For Peace..."

Choosing revolution, as Thomas Stone and many others eventually did, was not an easy or inevitable decision for most American colonists. The outcome of a war with England was far from certain and regardless of who won, the lives of the colonists would never be the same. With safety, security, family and fortune at stake, courage and personal sacrifice were tested no matter what side was chosen.