Chesapeake Bay

A view of docks and boats in the waterside town of Cape Charles VA
Cape Charles on Virginia's lower Eastern Shore is a bayside gem with many opportunities for visitors to enjoy the water.
A family walks along the beach searching for fossils at Calvert Cliffs.
Calvert Cliffs is a well known destination for fossil hunting.
A series of waterfalls and rocky conditions show the fall line on the Potomac River
Great Falls marks the fall line of the Potomac River.
At sunset, a boater returns to the docks used by working watermen at Tangier Island.
At sunset, a boater returns to the docks used by working watermen at Tangier Island.
Four youngsters paddle kayaks on calm waters of the Susquehanna River
Four youngsters paddle kayaks on calm waters of the Susquehanna River in Pennsylvania.
Photos: National Park Service

About Chesapeake Bay

Over 41 million acres are connected through the waters that flow to and through Chesapeake Bay. The National Park Service strives to connect people to the opportunities and adventures throughout the watershed. Inspiring stewardship across this vast region supports recreation, business, tourism, learning, and a thriving natural resource for all to enjoy.

Quick Facts

State District of Columbia
State Code DC,DE,MD,NY,PA,VA,WV
Weather Annapolis, Maryland has a warm humid temperate climate with hot summers and no dry season. Over the course of a year, the temperature typically varies from 29°F to 86°F and…

Location & Map

Chesapeake Bay is located in District of Columbia.

Operating Hours

All Park Hours above refers to the core hours the Chesapeake Bay Program Office is open. This program office manages the National Park Service's responsibilities under the Chesapeake Bay Initiative and the Chesapeake Gateways & Water Trails Network. The office core hours are from 9 am to 4 pm Monday through Friday. The office is closed on federal holidays. Quite frequently, the office is open for business at least one hour earlier and one hour later than core hours.

Wednesday 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Monday 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Thursday 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Sunday Closed
Tuesday 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Friday 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Saturday Closed

Activities

Boating Compass and GPS Geocaching Guided Tours Paddling Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching

Getting There

The Chesapeake Bay office is located off of Aris T. Allen Blvd in Annapolis, Maryland. Traveling east on Route 50, take the exit towards Riva road and 665, Aris T. Allen Blvd. Continue on 665 to Forest drive. Our office is on the left through the first light, across from the Safeway.

View Official Directions

Contact & Address

Address 1750 Forest Drive, Annapolis, MD, 21401
Phone 4102602470

Topics & Themes

Colonization and Settlement Maritime Native American Heritage Wars and Conflicts Colonial/European Contact Conflicts Trails Water Trails

Things To Do

Paddle the Sassafras River Water Trail

Paddle the Sassafras River Water Trail

The Sassafras River Water Trail is a 22 mile-long route located in the Upper region of the Chesapeake Bay. The…

Bay Venture Outfitters, North East, MD

Bay Venture Outfitters, North East, MD

Bay Venture Outfitters in North East, Maryland offers kayak and paddleboard access to the North East River and nearby wetlands.…

Kayak, paddleboard, and bike rentals, along with both guided and self-guided tours

Riverside Adventure Company Outfitter

Riverside Adventure Company Outfitter

Riverside Adventure Company in Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania offers paddling and cycling experiences along the Susquehanna River. Visitors explore watershed landscapes,…

Riverside Adventure Company Outfitter offers kayak, paddleboard, paddle boat, canoe or other watercraft rentals as well as cycling and trail…

James River Batteau Company

James River Batteau Company

Step aboard a hand-built replica of a James River Batteau and explore the history of Virginia’s rivers. Guided cruises include…

Two-hour interpretive cruises on a replica James River Batteau with storytelling, food, music, and optional hands-on navigation.

Annapolis Sailing Cruises: Schooner Woodwind

Annapolis Sailing Cruises: Schooner Woodwind

Annapolis Sailing Cruises: Schooner Woodwind offers two-hour public sailing experiences aboard classic schooners on the Chesapeake Bay. Visitors help raise…

Annapolis Sailing Cruises: Schooner Woodwind offers multiple cruises with up to four trips daily. Visit their website for more information.

Explore Historic Annapolis on Foot

Explore Historic Annapolis on Foot

Explore Annapolis on a self-guided walking tour that highlights centuries of history along the Chesapeake Bay. Visit the Maryland State…

🗺️ Guided Tours & Experiences

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