Education Programs

Patuxent River Park offers a variety of nature and historical interpretive programs and outdoor recreation activities for school children and the public. Some are offered year round while others are seasonal. A reservation is required for all activities.

• PRE-SCHOOL (PRE-K - K)
• ELEMENTARY (GRADES 1-5)
• MIDDLE SCHOOL (GRADES 6-8)
• HIGH SCHOOL (GRADES 9-12)
• COLLEGE & ADULT
• SENIORS
• PROGRAMS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES 
  
  

PRE-SCHOOL (PRE-K - K)

ELEMENTARY (GRADES 1-5)

Guided Nature Hikes (Grade 1 to Adult)
The Black Walnut Creek Nature Study Area provides a unique opportunity to observe the tidal and nontidal wetlands of the river. Boardwalks provide easy access to these valuable habitats.
Fee: Resident $1; Non-Resident $2

Hey! Let's Go Fishing (Grades 1-4)
Don't let the big one get away on this fishing program for beginners. Limited to 12 participants.
Fee: Resident $5; Non-Resident $6

Journey Into Jug Bay's Past (Grade 3 to Adult)
April-October
Find out about 10,000 years of human history on the Patuxent River. Historians tell the story aboard the park's pontoon boat with a stop at Mt. Calvert Historical & Archaeological Park.
Fee: Resident $3; Non-Resident $4

River Ecology Boat Tour (Grade 2 to Adult)
A guided boat tour will give students the opportunity to learn about the river's wetlands, wildlife, and history from the water. Students will learn the identification of common plants and animals, the current research being conducted by the park staff, and management issues needed to protect the ecosystem. April-October. FREE 

Let the Cattail Out of the Bag (Grades K-5)
This curriculum-based program for students in grades K-5 is designed to introduce students to the Patuxent River and its wetlands. The presentation and hands-on activities last 1 hour. This program can be presented at your facility or here at Patuxent River Park.
Fee: Resident $2; Non-Resident $3

Patuxent Rural Life Museums Tour (All ages)
Guided tours of Patuxent Rural Life Museums are available year round. The tour guide tells the story of the 6 buildings as each one is visited and can tailor the program to fit your social studies curriculum with 2 weeks advance notice. Please call Patuxent River Park at 301-627-6074 for reservations.
Fee: Resident $1; Non-Resident $2

MIDDLE SCHOOL (GRADES 6-8)

Conservation Activities (Grade 6 to Adult)
Take part in any of several activities that help preserve the resources of the park. Invasive and non-native plants that have invaded the park need to be destroyed or removed. The park has over 8 miles of trails that need continual maintenance and repair.

Eyes on Jug Bay (Grade 6 to Adult)
This program focuses on the ecology of freshwater wetlands of the Patuxent River. Students learn about water quality, microscopic plants and animals, food chains through hands-on activities and outdoor study. Limited to 12 participants.
Fee: Resident $5; Non-Resident $6

Geocaching (Grade 6 to Adult)
Try high-tech orienteering and scavenger hunting. Learn how to use a GPS unit and find the treasure in the park. Limited to 20 participants.
Fee: Resident $3; Non-Resident $4

Guided Canoe/Kayak Trips (Grade 5 to Adult)
Explore the natural beauty of the river on this 3-hour, guided kayak trip. Certified instructor.
May-October. Limited to 8 participants. Also available with canoes, limited to 16 participants.
Fee: Resident $16; Non-Resident $20

Guided Nature Hikes (Grade 1 to Adult)
The Black Walnut Creek Nature Study Area provides a unique opportunity to observe the tidal and nontidal wetlands of the river. Boardwalks provide easy access to these valuable habitats.
Fee: Resident $1; Non-Resident $2

Journey Into Jug Bay's Past (Grade 3 to Adult)
April-October
Learn about 10,000 years of human history on the Patuxent River. Historians tell the story aboard the park's pontoon boat with a stop at Mt. Calvert Historical & Archaeological Park.
Fee: Resident $3; Non-Resident $4

Patuxent Rural Life Museums Tour (All ages)
Guided tours of Patuxent Rural Life Museums are available year round. The tour guide tells the story of the 6 buildings as each one is visited and can tailor the program to fit your social studies curriculum with 2 weeks advance notice. Please call Patuxent River Park at 301-627-6074 for reservations.
Fee: Resident $1; Non-Resident $2

River Ecology Boat Tour (Grades 2 to Adult)
A guided boat tour will give students the opportunity to learn about the river's wetlands, wildlife, and history from the water. Students will learn the identification of common plants and animals, the current research being conducted by the park staff and the management issues needed to protect the ecosystem. April-October. FREE

HIGH SCHOOL (GRADES 9-12)

Basket Weaving (Grade 6-12)
Learn how to weave a basket using natural materials. One-day classes range from 1 to 3 hours long. Limited to 10 participants.
Fee: Resident $5; Non-Resident $6

Birding Trips (Grade 9 to Adult)
The Jug Bay area of the park provides for some of the most outstanding birding found anywhere in Maryland. Guided birding trips are available year round. Examples of specific trips include: Blue Heron Tour, Birding Jug Bay, Birding the Patuxent, Wandering Warblers, and The Bluebirds are Back. Limited to 14 participants.
Fee: Resident $5; Non-Resident $6

Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Tour (Grade 9 to Adult)
This four-mile driving tour connects the park with the Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary. It features educational displays about the history and wildlife of the area, observation towers, and a 1,000-foot-long wooden bridge.
Fee: Resident $2; Non-Resident $3

Conservation Activities (Grade 6 to Adult)
The Park offers several activities that help preserve the resources of the park. Invasive and non-native plants that have invaded the park need to be destroyed or removed. The park has over 8 miles of trails that need continual maintenance and repair.

Eyes on Jug Bay (Grades 6 to Adult)
This program focuses on the ecology of freshwater wetlands of the Patuxent River. Students learn about water quality, microscopic plants and animals, food chains through hands-on activities and outdoor study. Limited to 12 participants.
Fee: Resident $5; Non-Resident $6

Geocaching (Grade 6 to Adult)
Try high-tech orienteering and scavenger hunting. Learn how to use a GPS unit and find the treasure in the park. Limited to 20 participants.
Fee: Resident $3; Non-Resident $4

Guided Canoe/Kayak Trips (Grade 6 to Adult)
Explore the natural beauty of the river on this 3-hour guided kayak trip. Certified instructor.
May-October. Limited to 8 participants. Also available with canoes, limited to 16 participants.
Fee: Resident $16; Non-Resident $20

Guided Nature Hikes (Grades 1 to Adult)
The Black Walnut Creek Nature Study Area provides a unique opportunity to observe the tidal and nontidal wetlands of the river. Boardwalks provide easy access to these valuable habitats.
Fee: Resident $1; Non-Resident $2

Journey Into Jug Bay's Past (Grade 3 to Adult)
There is 10,000 years of human history on the Patuxent River. Historians tell the story aboard the park's pontoon boat with a stop at Mt. Calvert Historical & Archaeological Park.
April-October.
Fee: Resident $3; Non-Resident $4

On the Water (Grades 6 to Adult)
This series of three environmental programs offer students an extensive look at the ecology of wetlands and its wildlife. The Marsh program teaches the functions of wetlands and their importance to the environment. Five-hour program. April-October. Limited to 12 participants. Fee: $5 ($6). The Osprey program teaches how wildlife management practices have helped this bird of prey recover. Visit to Osprey nest included. Five-hour program. June. Limited to 12 participants. Fee: $5 ($6). The Goose Music program teaches about the biology, management, and conservation of the Canada Goose in Maryland and includes a live dissection. Five-hour program. November-March.
Fee: Resident $5; Non-Resident $6

Patuxent Rural Life Museums Tour (All ages)
Guided tours of Patuxent Rural Life Museums are available year round. The tour guide tells the story of the 6 buildings as each one is visited and can tailor the program to fit your social studies curriculum with 2 weeks advance notice. Please call Patuxent River Park at 301-627-6074 for reservations.
Fee: Resident $1; Non-Resident $2

River Ecology Boat Tour (Grades 2 to Adult)
A guided boat tour will give students the opportunity to learn about the river's wetlands, wildlife, and history from the water. Students will learn the identification of common plants and animals, the current research being conducted by the park staff and the management issues needed to protect the ecosystem. April-October. FREE

The Traveling Naturalist (Grade 9 to Adult)
Do you need an interesting presentation for your group? Want to travel to exotic, faraway places? See interesting wild life and spectacular sceenry? Then let our Naturalist/Photographer take you on a virtual slide tour of some of the most beautiful places on the planet without leaving your seat. These 90 minute presentations can be done at your facility. Natural and cultural history include: Brazil, The Galapagos Islands, Iceland, South Africa, Australia, Yellowstone, Glacier parks and more! Call to reserve your tour now. FREE (301)627-6074

COLLEGE & ADULT

Basket Weaving (Grade 6 to 12)
Learn how to weave a basket using natural materials. One-day classes range from 1 to 3 hours long. Limited to 10 participants.
Fee: Resident $5; Non-Resident $6

Birding Trips (Grade 9 to Adult)
The Jug Bay area of the park provides for some of the most outstanding birding found anywhere in Maryland. Guided birding trips are available year round. Examples of specific trips include: Blue Heron Tour, Birding Jug Bay, Birding the Patuxent, Wandering Warblers, and The Bluebirds are Back. Limited to 14 participants.
Fee: Resident $5; Non-Resident $6

Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Tour (Grade 9 to Adult)
This four-mile driving tour connects the park with the Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary. It features educational displays about the history and wildlife of the area, observation towers, and a 1,000-foot-long wooden bridge.
Fee: Resident $2; Non-Resident $3

Conservation Activities (Grade 6 to Adult) 
Take part in any of several activities that help preserve the resources of the park. Invasive and non-native plants that have invaded the park need to be destroyed or removed. The park has over 8 miles of trails that need continual maintenance and repair.

Eyes on Jug Bay (Grade 6 to Adult)
This program focuses on the ecology of freshwater wetlands of the Patuxent River. Students learn about water quality, microscopic plants and animals, and food chains through hands-on activities and outdoor study. Limited to 12 participants.
Fee: Resident $5; Non-Resident $6

Geocaching (Grade 6 to Adult)
Try high-tech orienteering and scavenger hunting. Learn how to use a GPS unit and find the treasure in the park. Limited to 20 participants.
Fee: Resident $3; Non-Resident $4

Guided Canoe/Kayak Trips (Grade 6 to Adult)
Explore the natural beauty of the river on this 3-hour guided kayak trip. Certified instructor.
May-October. Limited to 8 participants. Also available with canoes, limited to 16 participants.
Fee: Resident $16; Non-Resident $20

Guided Nature Hikes (Grade 1 to Adult)
The Black Walnut Creek Nature Study Area provides a unique opportunity to observe the tidal and nontidal wetlands of the river. Boardwalks provide easy access to these valuable habitats.
Fee: Resident $1; Non-Resident $2

Journey Into Jug Bay's Past (Grade 3 to Adult)
Learn about 10,000 years of human history on the Patuxent River. Historians tell the story aboard the park's pontoon boat with a stop at Mt. Calvert Historical & Archaeological Park.
April-October.
Fee: Resident $3; Non-Resident $4

On the Water (Grade 6 to Adult)
This series of three environmental programs offer students an extensive look at the ecology of wetlands and its wildlife. The Marsh program teaches the functions of wetlands and their importance to the environment. Five-hour program. April-October. Limited to 12 participants. Fee: $5 ($6). The Osprey program teaches how wildlife management practices have helped this bird of prey recover. Visit to Osprey nest included. Five-hour program. June. Limited to 12 participants. Fee: $5 ($6). The Goose Music program teaches about the biology, management, and conservation of the Canada Goose in Maryland and includes a live dissection. Five-hour program. November-March.
Fee: Resident $5; Non-Resident $6

Patuxent Rural Life Museums Tour (All ages)
Guided tours of Patuxent Rural Life Museums are available year round. The tour guide tells the story of the 6 buildings as each one is visited and can tailor the program to fit your social studies curriculum with 2 weeks advance notice. Please call Patuxent River Park at 301-627-6074 for reservations.
Fee: Resident $1; Non-Resident $2

River Ecology Boat Tour (Grade 2 to Adult)
A guided boat tour will give students the opportunity to learn about the river's wetlands, wildlife, and history from the water. Students will learn the identification of common plants and animals, the current research being conducted by the park staff and the management issues needed to protect the ecosystem. April-October. FREE

The Traveling Naturalist (Grade 9 to Adult)
Do you need an interesting presentation for your group? Want to travel to exotic, faraway places? See interesting wild life and spectacular sceenry? Then let our Naturalist/Photographer take you on a virtual slide tour of some of the most beautiful places on the planet without leaving your seat. These 90 minute presentations can be done at your facility. Natural and cultural history include: Brazil, The Galapagos Islands, Iceland, South Africa, Australia, Yellowstone, Glacier parks and more! Call to reserve your tour now. FREE. 301-627-6074.

SENIORS

Basket Weaving (Grades 6-12)
Learn how to weave a basket using natural materials. One-day classes range from 1 to 3 hours long. Limited to 10 participants.
Fee: Resident $5; Non-Resident $6

Birding Trips (Grade 9 to Adult)
The Jug Bay area of the park provides for some of the most outstanding birding found anywhere in Maryland. Guided birding trips are available year round. Examples of specific trips include: Blue Heron Tour, Birding Jug Bay, Birding the Patuxent, Wandering Warblers, and The Bluebirds are Back. Limited to 14 participants.
Fee: Resident $5; Non-Resident $6

Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Tour (Grade 9 to Adult)
This four-mile driving tour connects the park with the Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary. It features educational displays about the history and wildlife of the area, observation towers, and a 1,000-foot-long wooden bridge.
Fee: Resident $2; Non-Resident $3

Conservation Activities (Grade 6 to Adult)
Take part in an activity that helps preserve the resources of the park. Invasive and non-native plants that have invaded the park need to be destroyed or removed. The park has over 8 miles of trails that need continual maintenance and repair.

Guided Nature Hikes (Grades 1 to Adult)
The Black Walnut Creek Nature Study Area provides a unique opportunity to observe the tidal and nontidal wetlands of the river. Boardwalks provide easy access to these valuable habitats.
Fee: Resident $1; Non-Resident $2

Journey Into Jug Bay's Past (Grade 3 to Adult)
Learn about 10,000 years of human history on the Patuxent River. Historians tell the story aboard the park's pontoon boat with a stop at Mt. Calvert Historical & Archaeological Park.
April-October.
Fee: Resident $3; Non-Resident $4

Patuxent Rural Life Museums Tour (All ages)
Guided tours of Patuxent Rural Life Museums are available year round. The tour guide tells the story of the 6 buildings as each one is visited and can tailor the program to fit your social studies curriculum with 2 weeks advance notice. Please call Patuxent River Park at 301-627-6074 for reservations.
Fee: Resident $1; Non-Resident $2

River Ecology Boat Tour (Grade 2 to Adult)
A guided boat tour will give students the opportunity to learn about the river's wetlands, wildlife, and history from the water. Students will learn the identification of common plants and animals, the current research being conducted by the park staff and the management issues needed to protect the ecosystem. April-October. FREE

The Traveling Naturalist (Grade 9 to Adult)
Do you need an interesting presentation for your group? Want to travel to exotic, faraway places? See interesting wild life and spectacular sceenry? Then let our Naturalist/Photographer take you on a virtual slide tour of some of the most beautiful places on the planet without leaving your seat. These 90 minute presentations can be done at your facility. Natural and cultural history include: Brazil, The Galapagos Islands, Iceland, South Africa, Australia, Yellowstone, Glacier parks and more! Call to reserve your tour now. FREE. 301-627-6074.

PROGRAMS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES
Guided Nature Hikes (Grade 1 to Adult)
The Black Walnut Creek Nature Study Area provides a unique opportunity to observe the tidal and nontidal wetlands of the river. Boardwalks provide easy access to these valuable habitats.
Fee: Resident $1; Non-Resident $2

Patuxent Rural Life Museums Tour (All ages)
Guided tours of Patuxent Rural Life Museums are available year round. The tour guide tells the story of the 6 buildings as each one is visited and can tailor the program to fit your social studies curriculum with 2 weeks advance notice. Please call Patuxent River Park at 301-627-6074 for reservations.
Fee: Resident $1; Non-Resident $2

River Ecology Boat Tour (Grade 2 to Adult)
A guided boat tour will give students the opportunity to learn about the river's wetlands, wildlife, and history from the water. Students will learn the identification of common plants and animals, the current research being conducted by the park staff and the management issues needed to protect the ecosystem. April-October. FREE

The Traveling Naturalist (Grade 9 to Adult)
Do you need an interesting presentation for your group? Want to travel to exotic, faraway places? See interesting wild life and spectacular sceenry? Then let our Naturalist/Photographer take you on a virtual slide tour of some of the most beautiful places on the planet without leaving your seat. These 90 minute presentations can be done at your facility. Natural and cultural history include: Brazil, The Galapagos Islands, Iceland, South Africa, Australia, Yellowstone, Glacier parks and more! Call to reserve your tour now. FREE. 301-627-6074.