Calvert Cliffs State Park

Quick Facts

• Location: Lusby, Calvert County, Maryland
• Address: 10540 H G Trueman Rd, Lusby, MD 20657
• Water Type: Brackish water (Chesapeake Bay)
• Beach Type: State park natural beach
• Sand Type: Sandy and pebbled shoreline beneath cliffs
• Water Conditions: Generally calm; light Bay waves
• Best For: Fossil hunting, hiking, nature exploration
• Best Time to Visit: May–September
• Best Time of Day: Morning for cooler hiking conditions
• Beach Hours: State park hours apply
• Pet Policy: Pets allowed in park; restricted on beach areas
• Beach Cleanliness: Natural shoreline
• Average Rating: ⭐ 4.7
• Pricing: State park entrance fee
• Parking: Large on-site lot
• Accessibility: Approximately 1.8-mile hike to reach beach
• Restrooms: Yes (near parking area)
• Showers: Not available
• Lifeguards: Not stationed
• Crowd Level: Moderate during peak season
• Safety Notes: Watch for falling cliffs and unstable areas

Overview

Calvert Cliffs State Park is one of Maryland’s most unique shoreline destinations, known for its towering cliffs and fossil-rich beaches along the Chesapeake Bay.

Unlike traditional swim beaches, visitors must hike through wooded trails before reaching the shoreline. The experience is more about exploration and fossil hunting than structured swimming.

Amenities & Access

• Hiking trail access
• Picnic areas
• Restrooms at trailhead
• Nature center
• Natural shoreline

Water & Safety Conditions

• Calm Bay water
• No lifeguards
• Falling cliff hazards possible
• Follow posted safety signs

Things to Do

• Fossil hunting
• Hiking
• Photography
• Wildlife viewing
• Beach walks

Nearby Attractions

• Cove Point Lighthouse
• Chesapeake Beach
• Southern Maryland scenic drives

Where to Stay

• Chesapeake Beach hotels
• Solomons Island waterfront lodging
• Calvert County vacation rentals

Rules & Tips

• Wear comfortable hiking shoes
• Bring water for the trail
• Stay clear of unstable cliff edges
• Follow fossil collection guidelines

Best Time to Visit

Late Spring and Early Fall offer comfortable hiking weather.

Who It’s Best For

✔ Fossil hunters
✔ Hikers
✔ Nature lovers
✔ Photographers

Less ideal for families seeking lifeguarded swimming.

Bottom Line

Calvert Cliffs State Park delivers one of Maryland’s most distinctive Chesapeake Bay shoreline experiences, combining hiking, fossils, and dramatic natural scenery.