Chapman State Park

Chapman State Park is a state nature reserve covering about 829 acres of forest along the Potomac River in Maryland, featuring diverse plant species and multiple hiking trails through wooded terrain. The grounds include the historic Mount Aventine mansion and offer opportunities for fishing and hunting activities.

The park was established in 1998 when the Maryland Department of Natural Resources acquired the historic Mount Aventine mansion and surrounding land to protect the area as a preservation site. This acquisition allowed for the conservation of both the natural landscape and historical structures.

The Mount Aventine mansion within the grounds represents early American heritage and the Chapman family's historical connections to influential national figures. Visitors can experience this architectural link to the past while exploring the property.

The park is easy to access and features several marked trails of varying difficulty levels that wind through the forest. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for variable ground conditions, especially after rain when the terrain becomes softer.

The area is home to several trees that have received nominations in a champion tree recognition program, which identifies the largest or oldest examples of each species in the state and nation. These notable trees are visible to visitors during hikes and serve as interesting focal points for nature observation.

Location: Charles County

Inception: 1998

Operator: Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Maryland Park Service

Address: 3452 Ferry Pl, Indian Head, MD 20640​

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

GPS coordinates: 38.62140,-77.11920

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:20