NOTICE: Construction at Clearwater Nature Center started January 24, 2012 and is ongoing. The facility remains open during the construction. Areas of the building may need to close as work progresses. Visitors should follow signs to an alternate entrance if the main entrance is closed temporarily. The situation is evolving daily as the construction moves forward and information will be updated accordingly.
Located within Cosca Regional Park, Clearwater Nature Center offers a variety of interpretive programs hosted by park naturalists. Environmental education is strongly supported at this facility through interesting exhibits, displays, programs, special events, clubs, trips, and volunteer opportunities. The nature center features a small indoor pond, live animal exhibits, a lapidary workshop, and seasonal herb and butterfly gardens. Walk in on your own or visit the facility as part of a group to meet the live mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds of prey (including a bald eagle) that reside at the center. Admission is free; nominal fees apply for programs.
Located in Cosca Regional Park, in Clinton, Maryland.
From the Capital Beltway (I-495), take Exit 7A, Branch Ave. (Rt. 5) South toward Waldorf for 5.4 miles. At traffic light, turn right onto Surratts Road. Turn left at traffic light onto Brandywine Road. At next traffic light, turn right onto Thrift Road. Remain on Thrift Road until you see the sign for Clearwater Nature Center (it will be on your right).
From Upper Marlboro, take Rt. 301 south toward Waldorf. At light (right before the merge onto Rt. 5), turn right onto Brandywine Rd. At 2nd light, turn left onto Thrift Rd. Stay on Thrift Rd. for 1.5 miles and turn right at the entrance for Clearwater Nature Center.
From Waldorf, take Rt. 301 north. At the Rt. 301/Rt.5 split, bear left onto Rt. 5 (Branch Ave.). At 2nd light, turn left onto Brandywine Rd. At next light, turn left onto Thrift Rd. Stay on Thrift Rd. for 1.5 miles and turn right at the entrance for Clearwater Nature Center.
