Jug Bay Natural Area is the headquarters for the Patuxent River Park properties. This 2,000 acre tract of land is comprised of various natural habitats that buffer the Patuxent River and provide a critical link in conserving the area's natural resources.

Jug Bay is one of the most important freshwater tidal estuaries in the Chesapeake Bay region. The Commission works cooperatively with federal, state and local agencies, and conservation organizations to ensure the Patuxent River remains one of Maryland's premiere river greenways. Jug Bay Natural Area is a component of the Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in Maryland, a nationwide network of diverse coastal estuaries that serve as laboratories for scientific research, education and monitoring. The park is also a site on the Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network, a partnership of parks, refuges, museums, historical communities and trails where visitors can experience and learn about the Chesapeake Bay. Jug Bay has been designated an "Important Birding Area" by the National Audubon Society.

The park offers a wide range of amenities for the public. There are more than eight miles of scenic woodland trails for hikers, bicyclists and horseback riders. The park provides facilities for primitive tent camping and day-use picnics. There are two fishing areas at Jug Bay that offer good tidal fishing year-round. Jug Bay has two standard boat ramps, but no overnight tie-ups or fuel facilities. Waterfowl hunting is permitted in the park. A limited number of blind sites are leased on a seasonal basis. Jug Bay is excellent to explore by canoe or kayak. The park offers guided trips, as well as daily and hourly canoe and kayak rentals.

The park is home to the Patuxent Rural Life Museums. This collection of late 19th century and early 20th century buildings tells the story of life in southern Maryland. Visitors can also enjoy the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Tour, a four-mile roadway that connects the park with Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary.

Guided, interpretive programs are available on a seasonal basis. River ecology tours aboard a pontoon boat feature the river's wetlands, wildlife and history. Boardwalks provide easy access to Black Walnut Creek Nature Study Area. Guided nature hikes led by naturalists explore the bio-diverse communities of the river. Additionally, nature programs for people of all ages are offered.

A reservation is required for most activities.