Elk Neck State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Elk Neck State Park |
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IUCN Category III (Natural Monument)
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 Elk Neck State Park
Location in Maryland
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| Location | Cecil County, Maryland, United States |
| Nearest town | North East, Maryland |
| Area | 2,369 acres (9.59 km2) |
| Elevation | 118 ft (36 m) |
| Designation | Maryland state park |
| Established | 1936 |
| Administrator | Maryland Department of Natural Resources |
| Website | Elk Neck State Park |
Elk Neck State Park is a fun place to visit in Maryland! It's a big park located on the southern tip of the Elk Neck Peninsula. You'll find it between the Chesapeake Bay and the Elk River in Cecil County. This state park is famous for its old lighthouse, the Turkey Point Light. It offers lots of cool activities both on land and in the water. The park is managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. It's about eight miles (13 km) south of North East.
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How Elk Neck State Park Started
Elk Neck State Park officially began in 1936. A nature lover named Dr. William Abbott owned the land. He decided to give his property along the Elk River to the state of Maryland. He had first thought about giving the land to the Boy Scouts. But after talking with State Forester Fred W. Besley in 1935, he changed his mind.
After the state bought more land, a group called the Civilian Conservation Corps helped improve the park. They worked there from 1937 to 1941, building many things for visitors to enjoy.
Fun Things to Do at Elk Neck State Park
There are many exciting activities for you to try at Elk Neck State Park!
Visit the Turkey Point Lighthouse
The Turkey Point Lighthouse is a historic building from 1833. It sits on a high bluff, about 100 feet (30 meters) tall. From there, you can see amazing views of the Upper Chesapeake Bay. The lighthouse tower is 35 feet (11 meters) tall. A non-profit group helps take care of it. They even offer tours on weekends during certain times of the year.
Stay Overnight at the Campgrounds
If you love camping, this park is perfect! Elk Neck State Park has more than 250 campsites. You can also stay in rustic cabins or camper cabins. There are even special sites for youth groups.
Explore the Trails
The park has 12 miles (19 km) of trails. These trails are great for hiking and biking. You can choose a trail that fits your skill level.
| Trail Name | Length | Difficulty |
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| White Banks Trail | 3 miles (4.8 km) | Difficult |
| Mauldin Mountain Loop | 1.5 miles (2.4 km) | Difficult |
| Pond Loop | 1 mile (1.6 km) | Moderate |
| Farm Road Trail | 1 mile (1.6 km) | Moderate |
| Beaver Marsh Loop | 4 miles (6.4 km) | Difficult |
| Lighthouse Trail | 2 miles (3.2 km) | Easy |
| Ravines Loop | .75 miles (1.2 km) | Moderate |
Enjoy Water Activities
Elk Neck State Park is a great place for water fun! You can go swimming at the beach. Fishing and crabbing are also popular activities. The park has a boat launch if you want to bring your own boat. There's also a special area to launch canoes and kayaks.
Nature and Wildlife
Elk Neck State Park is part of the Northeastern coastal forests area. This means the park has a special landscape. You'll find deep forests, tall bluffs, sandy beaches, and marshlands. It's a beautiful place to see different kinds of plants and animals.
