Smallwood State Park

Smallwood State Park spans 984 acres of forested land with trails, a marina, and boat ramps along the Mattawoman Creek waterfront. The park also contains Smallwood's Retreat, a restored colonial-era plantation house that now functions as a museum open to visitors.

The reserve was established in 1958 and preserves Smallwood's Retreat, the restored residence of General William Smallwood, a Continental Army officer and later Governor of Maryland. The house and grounds document the life and importance of this key figure in American Revolutionary history.

The park hosts regular military exhibitions and craft demonstrations that connect visitors with the regional heritage of Charles County. These events take place around the historic buildings and give insight into traditional crafts and activities from earlier times.

The best time to visit is between April and October, when the park has extended hours and trails and waterways are most easily accessible. In the colder months, conditions are damper and less inviting, but the park remains open for those who prefer the quieter season.

The grounds sit just over one meter above sea level, offering unusual opportunities to observe tidal movements in Mattawoman Creek. This flat topography makes the park a natural laboratory for understanding how river ecosystems work and interact with tides.

Location: Charles County

Inception: 1958

Operator: Maryland Park Service

Opening Hours: April-October 05:00-sunset; November-March 07:00-sunset

Phone: +13017437613

Email: smallwood.statepark@maryland.gov

Website: https://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/southern/smallwood.aspx

GPS coordinates: 38.55640,-77.18530

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:53