Osprey
ParkMaryland, US
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Discover Flag Ponds Nature Park, a 500-acre natural haven offering diverse ecosystems and captivating history along the Chesapeake Bay.
About
Discover Flag Ponds Nature Park, a 500-acre natural haven offering diverse ecosystems and captivating history along the Chesapeake Bay. This unique preserve features pristine sandy beaches, tranquil freshwater ponds, and lush forested uplands, making it a compelling destination for explorers of all ages. It's particularly renowned for its rich fossil hunting opportunities, where visitors can uncover ancient treasures.
The park boasts a variety of attractions, including a half-mile trail leading to the expansive beach, where the main draw is searching for shark teeth and other Miocene-era fossils exposed by the Bay's natural processes. Inland, trails wind through pawpaw groves, leading to observation blinds at freshwater ponds like Duncan's Pond, perfect for birdwatching. A replica of the historic "Buoy Hotel" fishing shack offers a glimpse into the area's past, while a Visitor's Center features engaging wildlife displays. Birdwatchers can spot over 245 species, including Bald Eagles, Ospreys, and various warblers, while other wildlife like turtles and various butterflies add to the natural spectacle.
Flag Ponds Nature Park provides a memorable escape, blending recreational activities with educational opportunities. Its dynamic landscape, constantly reshaped by tides and seasons, ensures a fresh experience with each visit, whether you're sifting for fossils, observing diverse wildlife, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of the Chesapeake Bay shoreline. Unlock an interactive field guide for this spot: get the Snappit app to identify nature on the go.
Flag Ponds Nature Park holds a significant place in Maryland's history, having served as a prominent "pound-net" fishery from the early 1900s until 1955. During this period, fishermen utilized pound nets—a system of underwater fences—to funnel and catch fish like croaker, trout, and herring, which were then shipped to markets as far away as Baltimore. The fishermen resided in shanties along the shore, collectively known as the "Buoy Hotel." While the last original shanty was destroyed by fire in 2012, a faithful replica was constructed in 2015, allowing visitors to peek inside and envision the lives of these early Bay watermen. The park's shoreline is also a testament to ancient history, with millions of years ago, its waters being home to sharks, whales, and crocodiles, whose fossilized remains are still found today.
What to do here
Hunt for shark teeth and other Miocene fossils along the Chesapeake Bay shoreline.
* Go birdwatching from observation platforms at Duncan's Pond and along the Bay, keeping an eye out for Bald Eagles and Ospreys.
* Hike the numerous trails through varied ecosystems, including forests and wetlands.
* Enjoy beachcombing and relaxing by the water (swimming is permitted but unsupervised).
* Picnic in designated areas (no grills on the beach).
Seasonal info
Pawpaw fruit ripens and drops in early fall, attracting turtles and other wildlife along the trails. Summer months may bring jellyfish to the Bay waters, so checking advisories is recommended. In winter, look for various dabbling and diving ducks on the ponds and offshore waters, as well as wintering kinglets and Winter Wrens.
Accessibility
The Fisherman's Trail, which loops to Todd's Pond, is wheelchair-accessible, and accessible restrooms are available. The first half-mile walk from the parking lot to the wide, sandy beach is also stroller and wheelchair accessible. However, other woodland trails, such as the North Ridge Trail, are not stroller or wheelchair accessible.
Don't miss
1
Fossil-rich Beach
A primary attraction for finding shark teeth and other Miocene fossils.
2
Duncan's Pond Observation Blind
A freshwater pond with a blind and deck for excellent birdwatching.
3
"Buoy Hotel" Replica Fishing Shack
Step back in time and see how fishermen lived.
4
Hiking Trails
Explore diverse habitats including forested uplands, wetlands, and pawpaw groves on trails like the North Ridge and South Ridge Trails.
Wildlife you might spot
12Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.
Snap map for this place
Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.
Loading map…
Good to know before you go
Arrive Early
** Especially on summer weekends or holidays, the park can reach capacity quickly, leading to temporary closures. Arriving early ensures entry.
Pack Water and Snacks
There are no food concessions in the park, so bring all the food and drinks you'll need for your visit.
Wear Water Shoes
The beach has many shells and broken pieces, so water shoes are highly recommended for comfort while walking and fossil hunting.
Bring Fossil Hunting Gear
A small sifter, scooper, and a sturdy bag will enhance your chances of finding and collecting shark teeth and other fossils.
Check Seasonal Conditions
Be aware of potential jellyfish advisories during summer and wear waterproof hiking boots if visiting during wet seasons, as some trails can be muddy.
Consult Tide Tables
Fossil hunting is often best at low tide, as more of the beach is exposed.
Frequently asked questions
- Entrance fees vary by season and residency. From April to October, county residents typically pay $5 per vehicle, while non-residents pay $20 per vehicle. From November to March, the fee is $5 per vehicle for both residents and non-residents on weekends, with no fee on Mondays and Fridays. Walk-in/bike entry is $5 per person. Annual passes are also available. Park hours also change seasonally; during summer (Memorial Day to Labor Day), it's generally open Monday-Friday 9 AM-6 PM and Saturday-Sunday 9 AM-8 PM. Off-season hours typically involve closures on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, with reduced hours on other days. The park often closes entries one hour before closing time, and the beach area also closes an hour before the park.
- Yes, Flag Ponds Nature Park is an excellent location for fossil hunting. The eroding Calvert Cliffs release Miocene-era fossils onto the beach, with shark teeth being a very common find, including those from ancient tiger, hammerhead, and sand sharks. Visitors are encouraged to bring a sifter or scooper, a bag for their finds, and water shoes, as the beach can have many shells and broken pieces. It's important to only collect fossils found loose on the beach and not to dig into the cliffs or protected natural areas.
- Yes, dogs are permitted at Flag Ponds Nature Park, including on the beach. They must be kept on a leash at all times, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.
Recent snaps at this place
Jun 5, 2026
Jun 3, 2026
Jun 2, 2026
May 31, 2026
May 31, 2026
More park guides
View all ›.JPG)
Park30 sightings21 species
Massachusetts, US
Stevens-Coolidge House and Gardens
You might spot Virginia Bluebells and Great Golden Digger Wasp.
View guide →
.jpg)
Park30 sightings20 species
Maryland, US
Herring Run Park
You might spot White-Tailed Deer and Japanese Knotweed.
View guide →
Park22 sightings20 species
Illinois, US
Sauganash Trail
You might spot White Mulberry, House Finch, and Scissor Grinder.
View guide →
Park166 sightings19 species
Maryland, US
Rock Creek Regional Park
You might spot Great Blue Heron, Eastern Bluebird, and White-Tailed Deer.
View guide →