Carpenter Beach, Maryland facts for kids

Carpenter Beach, Maryland is a small community located in Calvert County, Maryland. It's a place where people live, and it can be found on maps created by the U.S. Geological Survey, specifically the Prince Frederick map. This area is quite low, with an average elevation of about 23 feet above sea level.

Exploring Carpenter Beach, Maryland

Carpenter Beach is a quiet spot in Calvert County, a beautiful area known for its Chesapeake Bay shoreline and rich history. Even though it's a small community, it's part of a larger region with interesting natural features and a unique past.

What is a Populated Place?

When we say Carpenter Beach is a "populated place," it means it's an area where people live. It might not be a big city or even a town with its own government, but it's recognized as a community. These places often show up on maps and are important for understanding how land is used and where people are settled.

Where is Calvert County?

Calvert County is located in the southern part of Maryland, on a peninsula between the Patuxent River and the Chesapeake Bay. It's known for its cliffs, beaches, and a mix of rural and suburban areas. The county seat, which is like the main administrative town, is Prince Frederick.

Natural Features of Calvert County

Calvert County has some amazing natural features. The Calvert Cliffs are famous for their fossils, which tell us about ancient marine life that lived millions of years ago. The county also has many waterways and forests, making it a great place for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking.

Understanding the U.S. Geological Survey

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is a scientific agency of the United States government. Its job is to study the landscape of the United States, its natural resources, and the natural hazards that threaten it. They create detailed maps, like the Prince Frederick map that shows Carpenter Beach. These maps are super helpful for scientists, planners, and anyone who wants to understand the geography of an area.

Why Maps are Important

Maps from the USGS show us many things, like elevation, roads, rivers, and even buildings. For a place like Carpenter Beach, knowing its elevation (23 feet) is important because it tells us how high it is above sea level. This information can be useful for understanding things like flood risks or how water flows in the area.

Life in a Small Maryland Community

Living in a small community like Carpenter Beach often means enjoying a quieter lifestyle. Residents might be close to nature, with easy access to the bay or rivers. These communities are often tight-knit, where neighbors know each other.

Activities Near Carpenter Beach

While Carpenter Beach itself might be small, its location in Calvert County means there are many things to do nearby. People can visit the Calvert Cliffs State Park to hunt for shark teeth fossils, explore the Chesapeake Bay for fishing and crabbing, or enjoy local parks and historical sites.

Local History and Culture

Calvert County has a rich history, dating back to colonial times. There are many historical sites and museums that tell the story of the area's past, including its agricultural roots and its connection to the Chesapeake Bay. Understanding the history of the broader county helps us appreciate the context of smaller communities like Carpenter Beach.