St. Mary's River State Park Quest - Leave No Trace on Southern Maryland

Introduction to the Quest

StMarys.Quest.JPGTeams will hike out and back on the St. Mary’s River Lake Trail. On the hike, they will learn about the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace and how they can help protect and enjoy our natural environment. Teams may choose the basic quest (~3 miles out and back) or the Bonus quest, which will require them to hike the full 7.5 miles around the lake.

Quest Information

The quest is available June 1st to December 1st, sunrise to sunset. The quest begins at the Park Quest Information Board located near the bath house at the main parking area. The quest will then proceed clockwise around the lake trail, starting at the trailhead in the lower parking lot. The hike is approximately 3 miles in length (out and back) and is an easy hike. Make sure to have water, sunscreen, bug repellent and weather appropriate clothing. Completion of the optional Bonus Quest will require participants to complete the 7.5 mile loop trail around the lake, ending up at the main parking lot. This typically takes several hours and can be more difficult for novice hikers.

Park Information

Situated at the northern end of the St. Mary's River watershed, the park shows a wide range of habitats, from wooded acres and fields to swamps and small streams. With such a diversity, you can also find many different types of plant and animal species. The Park is separated into two areas, Sites 1 and 2. The Site 1 area holds the 250 acre St. Mary's Lake. Located along Maryland Route 5, between Leonardtown and Great Mills, at the end of Camp Cosoma Road, the area has become a popular freshwater fishing spot. A 7.5 mile trail circles the lake, allowing the area to be fished from shore or by boat (electric motor only). The trail is regularly used for hiking, biking and horseback riding. The Site 1 area has been improved by a modern comfort station, picnic tables, playground, boat launch ramps and a large, gravel parking lot. Picnicking is permitted but tables are limited. Pets are allowed in the state park.

St. Mary's River State Park
21250 Camp Cosoma Road
Leonardtown, MD 20650
301-872-5688

Directions to St. Mary's River State Park

​​​​​​​From Leonardtown, Maryland, travel south along Maryland Route 5 for 7.5 miles. Turn left onto Camp Cosoma Road and follow to the end.

From the south, travel along Maryland Route 5 for 24 miles from Point Lookout State Park or 3 miles from Great Mills. Turn right onto Camp Cosoma Road and follow to the end.

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