Purse State Park

Quick Facts

• Location: Nanjemoy, Charles County, Maryland
• Address: 10200 Riverside Rd, Nanjemoy, MD 20662
• Water Type: Freshwater (Potomac River)
• Beach Type: Natural fossil-rich river shoreline
• Sand Type: Natural sandy and fossil-bearing shoreline
• Water Conditions: Calm river; tidal influence
• Best For: Fossil hunting, hiking, quiet waterfront exploration
• Best Time to Visit: April–October
• Best Time of Day: Midday
• Beach Hours: Sunrise to sunset
• Pet Policy: Pets allowed on leash
• Beach Cleanliness: Natural undeveloped shoreline
• Average Rating: ⭐ 4.6
• Pricing: Free public access
• Parking: Small parking area
• Accessibility: Short hike to shoreline
• Restrooms: Limited
• Showers: Not available
• Lifeguards: Not stationed
• Crowd Level: Light
• Safety Notes: Uneven terrain; swim at own risk

Overview

Purse State Park is known for its fossil-rich shoreline along the Potomac River. Visitors often come searching for shark teeth and ancient marine fossils embedded in the sand and cliffs.

It is not a developed swim beach, but it offers one of Maryland’s most unique shoreline experiences.

Amenities & Access

• Fossil hunting shoreline
• Hiking trails
• Picnic areas
• Scenic river views

Water & Safety Conditions

• Tidal river water
• No lifeguards
• Sloped shoreline

Things to Do

• Fossil hunting
• Hiking
• Photography
• Riverfront picnicking

Nearby Attractions

• Chapman State Park
• Southern Maryland river towns
• Potomac River scenic drives

Where to Stay

• Indian Head lodging
• Charles County hotels
• Southern Maryland rentals

Rules & Tips

• Bring water shoes
• Check tide levels before visiting
• Follow fossil collection rules
• Stay back from unstable cliff areas

Best Time to Visit

Late spring through early fall offers the most comfortable fossil hunting conditions.

Who It’s Best For

✔ Fossil hunters
✔ Families with older kids
✔ Nature explorers
✔ Quiet river visitors

Less ideal for those seeking traditional swimming beaches.

Bottom Line

Purse State Park offers a distinctive Potomac River shoreline experience centered around fossil hunting and natural scenery rather than typical beach recreation.