What’s to love
If, like me, you’ve been ignoring the state of Maryland because you assume it’s just too far away for a day trip, I am here to report that it’s not! Not at all. In fact, this beautiful state park is just 75 minutes down I95.
Elk Neck State Park is sandwiched between the northernmost end of the Chesapeake Bay to the west, and the Elk River to the east. There’s a beautiful rocky shoreline to walk, here, and some impressive cliffs made of white clay. No, really. Clay cliffs. When I read that particular tidbit in the trail description I was prepared to be unimpressed, but it’s legit—there are huge cliffs along the Chesapeake. If you hike the shoreline beneath them, you’ll find gobs of actual clay that have eroded down the cliffside.
I’ve only explored a part of this park, but there’s also a lighthouse at the very southern tip, plus lots of camping, boating, swimming, and other outdoor facilities.
Tips and quirks
- Maryland State Park fees apply for most of the year! It’s $5 for out-of-state plates.
- The best hike here is clearly the White Banks Trail. It’s a bit of a steep climb, but not terrible, and you’ll be rewarded with some great views of the cliffside and the Chesapeake Bay. And maybe a bald eagle or two. (I saw two!)
- Hike the shoreline under the cliffs for some really interesting geological features. You’ll see the cliff face, a variety of multicolored rocks (can someone identify what these are, please??), and a huge boulder right at the water line, inscribed “Mary’s Rock House.” You can climb it if you’re careful.
- Hiking further south, you’ll encounter a marsh with an active beaver dam, and a harbor with a second swimming hole.
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Last updated: March 1, 2019
A small disclaimer: This website is not affilitated with the City of Philadelphia, its parks department, local non-profits, or any state or federal organization. Opinions reflected here are solely the author's: a regular person who happens to enjoy hiking. Like all outdoor activities, hiking carries some risks (including medical and personal safety risks) and requires preparation and supplies. Routes and conditions may have changed since this post was written. Make sure you follow all posted rules and local laws, as certain activities (like off-leash dogs or leaving marked trails) are frequently prohibitied.
