From mountains, to the bay, to the Atlantic Ocean, Maryland boasts a vast assortment of outdoor activities, unique attractions, and historical landmarks. So where do you start? Before you click on the map below, here are a few hints for choosing where to go:
Into camping, hiking and the Great Outdoors? Try the Western Region for Deep Creek Lake, waterfalls and a portion of the Appalachian Trail. Maybe you'd prefer a more patriotic experience in the Capital Region, where you can explore Washington, D.C. and learn about space travel at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. Maryland's Southern Region boasts historical sites dating back to prehistoric times. Take a whirl through the expansive Central Region with a mix of intimate vineyards, immaculate public gardens and the bustling nightlife of Baltimore's Inner Harbor. And don't forget the Eastern Shore, with its abundance of creek to bay fishing, quiet country roads and beach-bumming pleasures.
Assateague State Park is Maryland's only ocean park. It is located on Assateague Island, a barrier island bordered on the east by the Atlantic Ocean and on the west by Sinepuxent Bay. Two miles of ocean beaches offer swimming, beachcombing, sunbathing, surfing and fishing. The island's bayside offers visitors the chance to explore secluded coves by canoe or kayak. The marsh areas have a variety of wildlife, including deer, waterfowl and feral horses. Assateague was selected by National Geographic Travel magazine in 1994 as one of the 10 best state parks in the United States.