Elk Neck State Park

For dining near Elk Neck State Park, several excellent options are available in North East, Maryland. Woody's Crab House is renowned for its crab cakes and steamed crabs, offering a relaxed setting with brown paper-covered tables. Another popular spot is The Nauti Goose, a waterfront restaurant known for its seafood and laid-back atmosphere. For Southern comfort food, Forge Southern Comfort provides a cozy dining experience with a focus on local ingredients. Steak & Main offers a mix of upscale steak and seafood options in a casual setting. Lastly, Pier 1 Restaurant serves Italian and seafood dishes in a cozy nautical-themed environment.

Visitors to Elk Neck State Park can choose from several convenient hotels in the North East area. The Comfort Inn & Suites offers a straightforward stay with free breakfast and an indoor pool. The Best Western Chesapeake Bay North Inn provides an unassuming stay with similar amenities, including an indoor pool and complimentary breakfast. For a more upscale experience, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites features an outdoor pool and fitness center, along with free breakfast and WiFi.

Elk Neck State Park offers a variety of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park includes restrooms, showers, picnic shelters, and grills, making it suitable for both day visits and camping stays. There are also facilities for canoeing and kayaking, as well as a boat launch area at Rogues Harbor. The park store provides supplies for camping and outdoor activities. Additionally, the park features a nature center and playgrounds, though some are currently undergoing repairs.

For those interested in staying overnight, the park offers over 250 campsites, including rustic cabins and youth group sites. The campgrounds are equipped with bathhouses, which are being renovated during the 2025 season to improve facilities.

The park's scenic views and historical sites, such as the Turkey Point Lighthouse, add to its appeal as a comprehensive recreational destination.

Elk Neck State Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors. Swimming is a popular activity at the North East Beach Area, which also features a canoe and kayak launch. Fishing and crabbing are allowed in designated areas, with fishing piers available at Rogues Harbor. The park's 12 miles of trails cater to hikers and bikers, with options ranging from easy to difficult. The Turkey Point Lighthouse Trail is a favorite among visitors, offering scenic views of the Chesapeake Bay.

For those interested in water sports, the park provides access for small boats and kayaks. Additionally, the park hosts various events and educational programs, making it a great destination for families and nature enthusiasts.

The park's diverse landscapes, including marshlands and wooded areas, provide ample opportunities for birdwatching and exploring local wildlife.

Elk Neck State Park offers several accessibility options to ensure that all visitors can enjoy its facilities. The park includes wheelchair-accessible restrooms and picnic areas. Additionally, some of the trails are suitable for visitors with mobility impairments, though the difficulty level may vary. The Turkey Point Lighthouse Area and other main attractions are designed to be accessible, allowing everyone to experience the park's natural beauty and historical sites.

However, it's advisable to check with park staff for specific accessibility details, especially regarding trail conditions and any ongoing construction or repairs that might affect access.

Parking at Elk Neck State Park is generally accessible, with designated areas for cars and boat trailers. The park charges a fee for entry, which varies depending on the day and residency status. Weekends and holidays typically incur a higher fee compared to weekdays. The parking lots are located near the main attractions, including the beach and the Turkey Point Lighthouse, ensuring that visitors can easily access the park's facilities.

However, during peak seasons or special events, parking may become limited, so it's advisable to arrive early. The Rogues Harbor area, which includes a boat launch, has an upper parking lot that remains open during construction, allowing for continued access to trails.

Elk Neck State Park has a rich history, with the Turkey Point Lighthouse being one of its most notable features. The lighthouse was run by four female keepers between 1844 and 1948, making it a significant piece of maritime history. The park itself was established in 1936, thanks to a donation by naturalist Dr. William Abbott, who initially intended the land for the Boy Scouts.

The park has also been used as a filming location for several movies and TV shows, including Clint Eastwood's 'Absolute Power' and an episode of 'Hannibal'. This blend of natural beauty and cultural significance makes Elk Neck State Park a fascinating destination for both outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.

The park's diverse wildlife and varied landscapes provide a unique setting for nature observation and exploration.

One of the main attractions at Elk Neck State Park is the historic Turkey Point Lighthouse. Dating back to 1833, this lighthouse offers stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay and is open for tours on weekends during the warmer months. The park also features a variety of scenic trails, including the Lighthouse Trail, which provides an easy hike to the lighthouse.

The park's diverse landscapes, including sandy beaches, marshlands, and wooded areas, make it a unique destination for nature lovers. Visitors can explore the park's natural beauty through hiking, biking, or simply taking in the views from the many scenic overlooks.

Additionally, the park's proximity to the Elk River and Chesapeake Bay makes it an ideal spot for water activities like fishing and boating.