Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary - Lothian, MD
Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary – Scenic Dog-Friendly Park in Lothian, Maryland
Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary offers pet owners and their dogs a tranquil escape in Lothian, Maryland, featuring miles of dog-friendly hiking and pet-friendly trails winding through woodlands, wetlands, and boardwalks. While not a traditional dog park, this nature sanctuary is perfect for leashed adventures, providing a serene environment with picturesque scenery, ample shade from mature trees, and peaceful views of the bay and marsh.
This spot is highly accessible, with wheelchair-accessible parking and entrances, making it welcoming for all visitors. Dog owners will appreciate the variety of trail lengths, opportunities for wildlife watching, and large shaded picnic areas. Clean public restrooms are available, and the on-site nature center offers helpful staff, educational exhibits, and a small gift shop. Paid entry ensures the sanctuary remains well-maintained with adequate parking. It’s an excellent choice for anyone seeking a quiet day outdoors with their leashed canine companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed at all times throughout the sanctuary.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, there is a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot.
- Are picnics allowed? Yes, picnics are allowed and picnic tables are available.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, public restrooms are available near the nature center.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the trails have ample natural shade provided by mature trees.
- Is there a fee or membership required to enter? Yes, there is an entry fee charged per car.
- Where is the best place to park? Adequate parking is available near the various entrances and the visitor center.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary features multiple hiking trails including boardwalks and scenic paths.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, benches can be found along the trails and boardwalks.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, reviews consistently note that the facilities and trails are clean and well-maintained.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Trails can get slightly mucky after rain, especially in wetland areas, so hiking boots are recommended.
Reviews
First visit to a very huge sanctuary was pleasant that requires more visits. Loads of trails to enjoy nature to it’s fullest. The office area was filled with learning opportunities for all ages. Bathrooms moderately clean and areas within and around the faculty office were presentable. The lady on duty was so helpful and informing. The Wetlands area was calming and serene. Definitely need a full day over several visits to enjoy the entire park. There’s a thin low mileage one lane road entrance. Slow down for Animal crossing.
What a beautiful natural sanctuary. There are a variety of trail lengths to choose from. At times it can be difficult to discern where the path goes because of lack of markers.
You must see the Chris Swarth Boardwalk that takes you a few hundred feet into the swamp. It’s very serene.
There are multiple entrances with varying amounts of parking spots. It’s free and you can bring your leashed dog as well.
Picturesque and easy trails; waterfowl, beaver, muskrat seen in favorable weather. Couple of the trails currently under maintenance. Nice visitor center and small gift shop. Very quiet during our visit, adequate parking.
Great day visit if you like woodlands, boardwalks over wetlands with benches to relax and reflect, nice winding trails, native Maryland birds, bees, and a hummingbird feasting on jewelweed blooms. A quiet and meditative feel overall. Nice views of the bay with herons swooping down for fish. Bring a camera and selfie stick. Fruits and water. Trails can get slightly mucky from higher wetland water tables so hiking boots are better if it has rained recently. Loved the scenery overall. Parking is ample. You could also sign up for a group nature walk between 5-7pm. Volunteer guide Ben was very helpful. Please try and be back by 5pm at the parking lot to allow the generous volunteers to close and wrap up early.
Simply beautiful. Very peaceful. Nature Center staff very helpful, knowledgeable and friendly. Entry is paid by car (NULL) not by individuals.
The short boardwalk just below the Nature Center was closed – looks like it will be that way for a while. But don’t let that stop you from visiting.
We took the Railroad Trail to the end. There are two lovely boardwalks off this trail – take them.
The Railroad Trail was very cool – the trees provided lots of shade during this hot weather. Lovely river and marsh views.