Chapel Point State Park - Port Tobacco, MD
Chapel Point State Park – Dog Friendly Activities in Port Tobacco, Maryland
Nestled along the shore of the Port Tobacco River, Chapel Point State Park is a tranquil hidden gem ideal for dog owners seeking a peaceful outing in Maryland. This dog-friendly park offers a calm setting with a small riverfront beach, picturesque views, and a low-key atmosphere seldom crowded—perfect for leashed walks, relaxing picnics, or playing fetch on open spaces. Pet parents appreciate the quiet trails, uncrowded shores, and the historic charm that make it a relaxing spot compared to busier locations.
The park features picnic tables, a fire ring, and waterfront access—making it enjoyable for both human and canine companions. While its amenities are basic (parking, a porta potty, and trails), the serenity and scenic riverside are highlights. Chapel Point State Park is a delightful option for dog owners looking to enjoy dog-friendly hiking or a chill afternoon by the water in Port Tobacco, Maryland.
Chapel Point State Park Dog Park FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs must be kept on a leash at Chapel Point State Park.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? There is not a designated fenced dog area at this park.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are short trails and gravel access roads for walks with your dog.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? There is a small beachfront on the river that some visitors and their dogs use for swimming.
- Are there restrooms available for owners? There is a porta potty at the parking lot.
- Is there a fee or membership required to enter? Entry is free for Maryland residents.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Picnic tables are available for seating.
- Is there shade or shelter available? There is natural shade from trees along the shoreline and picnic area.
- Is there parking available? Yes, there is a designated parking area near the entrance and beach access.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Spotted lantern flies have been observed in the park.
Reviews
Pretty small park but overall it’s decently nice. Not a ton of trash left around, not a lot of trails. The beaches are pretty small but it’s not normally crowded so it’s peaceful. Went yesterday and there were two stray kittens at the parking area to the right when you pull in. Tons of spotted lantern flies.
The park is nice for what it is. It doesn’t have too much trails to walk on but the beach area is nice and small. Perfect for a small to medium size group of people to hang out.
We had the hole park to ourselves. It was calm and peaceful and is a great place to fly kites. Got some great photos and even managed to catch a rusty fish hook in my hand while looking for fossils
We stopped to see the Thomas Stone National Historic Site which was a neat place to stop (he was one of four Maryland signers of the Declaration of Independence). Then we went down the road a little ways to check out Port Tobacco. We drove beyond Port Tobacco and found ourselves in this State Park which is an amazing gem well off the beaten path.
The old buildings hidden in the dense overgrowth are interesting, as is the abandoned old house hidden completely in the forest. The whole area around here is full of history and things to see and do; and the riverside beach is beautiful and peaceful – even on a foggy, misty day.
Writer at ExpertTexan.com
Fee: free
Duration: 20min in winter. A few hours in the summer if swimming.
Synopsis: Very small state park. With a small beach to swim in the rivernot worth traveling out of the way for
Entrance road is hard dirt with potholes easily navigable if it’s all types of vehicles. The road diverges halfway down with two options if you stay straight you go to chapel point or if you turn right you go to deep point. From chapel point it’s a 4-minute walk down a gravel access road to the beach. There is a firing and two picnic tables and about 10 ft of beach that stretches for a couple hundred feet along the river. There is a porta potty at the parking lot.