Elk Neck State Park

This 2,370-acre state park stretches across a peninsula between the Chesapeake Bay and Elk River, featuring diverse landscapes including marshlands, dense woodlands, white clay cliffs, and sandy beaches that provide varied outdoor recreation opportunities.

Established in 1936 from land donated by naturalist Dr. William Abbott, the park was developed between 1937 and 1941 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, who constructed trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas to create this public recreation destination.

The park gained cultural recognition as a filming location for the 1997 Clint Eastwood film 'Absolute Power' and has been featured in television episodes, showcasing its natural settings to audiences while maintaining its role as an environmental education center.

The park offers over 250 campsites, 15 cabins, youth group camping areas, swimming beaches, boat launches, fishing piers, and 12 miles of hiking trails, with facilities including fire rings, picnic tables, electrical hookups, restrooms, and showers for visitor convenience.

Turkey Point Lighthouse, built in 1833 and situated atop a 100-foot bluff at the peninsula's southern tip, remains an active navigational aid accessible via a 0.8-mile family-friendly trail that culminates in panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay.

Location: Cecil County

Operator: Maryland Park Service

Website: https://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/central/elkneck.asp

GPS coordinates: 39.48255,-75.97953

Latest update: July 23, 2025 15:16