Highlighting - Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary
This series focuses on highlighting local paddling locations to encourage people to check out new paddling spots all over Maryland. Today we highlight…
Jacksons Landing at Patuxent River Park (link to google map)
Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary is a spectacular 7,000-acre park along the stunning Patuxent River, which offers hiking trails, wetland boardwalks, and plenty of water to paddle on the border between Prince George's County and Anne Arundel County. This is the area where the river starts to get skinnier and you can paddle through 2,000 acres of tidal freshwater marshlands. The Anne Arundel side has mostly hiking and camping areas, while the Prince George’s side has a few launch spots like the one at Jackson Landing. (If you are using GPS to get here you would put in Jackson’s Landing for the address).
This river is ideal for all paddlers from racers to beginners. If you turn left out of Jackson Landing dock and paddle into the marshland you can find your way through miles of river trails with high marsh grasses, old sunken boats still peaking out of the marsh, and plenty of wildlife. For those looking for more open water, turn right out of the dock and head south toward Shelby’s Landing near the American Indian Village. If the weather is flat, this open water area is stunning but during a windy day it can be a struggle (unless you are into that sort of thing).
The parking lot is a bit limited with only about 20 spots next to the water, so you may need to drop off your board and park at the top of the hill and walk down on a busy weekend. It does have a port-o-potty and the website says they rent kayaks as well. The launch point is a boat ramp, with side docks so access to the water is extremely easy (see picture).
The Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary is a definite stop on your 2023 paddle locations. It is a great place to paddle and just meander around and get lost. It seems like you could paddle through here a dozen times and take a different route back to the dock each time.
Disclaimer - This entire post is based on the understanding of basic Stand Up Paddling safety; always wear your PFD and leash, and paddle with a friend and within your limits. Have fun out there and stay safe.
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