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Horseback riding is limited to Oak Ridge and Maxwell Hall Parks. Bicycles are permitted on the IHRT, but are not allowed on any other trails.

Gilbert Run Park

13140 Charles St • Charlotte Hall
Location Map & Driving Directions

This 2.5 mile nature trail travels along the edge of the 69 acre Wheatley Lake. Features include: self guided nature walk (pamphlets available at park office), fishing pavilions, numerous boardwalks and bridges, and beaver colony observation deck.

Friendship Farm Park

4705 Friendship Landing Rd • Nanjemoy
Location Map & Driving Directions

This hidden gem located in Western Charles County features two trail loops totaling nearly 4 miles. Features include: miles of waterfront hiking, nature observation decks, and abundant wildlife to observe and enjoy.

Indian Head Rail Trail

Location Map & Driving Directions

PHOTO GALLERY

The Indian Head Rail Trail is Charles County’s exciting new recreational trail. A generous gift through the Department of Interior’s Federal Lands to Parks Program, Charles County has completed converting this abandoned railroad corridor into a 13-mile bike trail. Connecting the Town of Indian Head to Route 301 in White Plains, the IHRT traverses approximately halfway across our County.

Without 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.

PARKING

Indian Head

No parking available directly at Mattingly Avenue trail head. 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 trail.

White Plains

From Route 301, make right turn onto Theodore Green Boulevard. Approximately ¼ mile, trail parking is on right side of road.

Weekend (only) overflow parking is available at the Charles County Health Department parking lot (intersection of Route 301 and Theodore Green Boulevard).

RULES OF THE TRAIL

1. No motorized vehicles (Handicap Exemption: electric wheelchairs permitted).
2. Trail is open dawn to dusk - illegal to be in park during non-daylight hours.
3. Stop at all road crossings and yield to road traffic.
4. Respect the rights of adjacent homeowners - stay within the park boundaries.
5. Alcoholic beverages prohibited.
6. Obey helmet laws.
7. No hunting - weapons prohibited.
8. Leashed pets are welcome (6 foot leash or less - no retractable leashes); owners are required to clean up after your pet.
9. Do not litter.

• Report emergencies by dialing 911. Unlawful activity of a non-emergency nature should be reported to the Charles County Sheriff’s Office: 301-932-2222.
• Report safety concerns or maintenance issues to the park office: 301-932-3470.
• Respect other trail users and enjoy a safe trail experience.

Charles County Parks & Recreation Department

 

Laurel Springs Park

5940 Radio Station Rd • La Plata
Location Map & Driving Directions

Winding around the edges of the athletic complex, this 1.6 mile trail is ideal for jogging or a quick lunch hour stroll.

Oak Ridge Park

13675 Oaks Rd • Hughesville
Location Map & Driving Directions

This 7 mile trail network offers equestrians and hikers a wide variety of trail options. Features include: hilly terrain, creek crossings, bridges, and flat open areas. Oak Ridge Park also features two show-quality riding arenas which are open to the public except during special events.

Maxwell Hall Park

6680 Maxwell Dr • Hughesville
Location Map & Driving Directions

Charles County’s newest equestrian facility welcomes hikers and nature watchers. Located off Rt. 231 near Benedict, the park offers over 14 miles of horse trails. Features include: flat wide open riding, "intense" and hilly wooded terrain, cross country jumping course, trail obstacle course, and beach front riding along the Patuxent River. NOTE: $25 annual membership required to ride facility. Call 301-932-3470 for membership information. Hikers and birders may use trails free of charge.

For information on any of our trails, please call the Parks Office at 301-932-3470.