With two distinct areas, Janes Island State Park has a developed mainland section with cabins and camping areas, and a portion accessible only by boat. The original island inhabitants were Native Americans of the Annemessex Nation. The park’s marked water trails offer canoeing and kayaking in a natural paradise with few signs of civilization. Most of the waterways are protected from wind and current providing ideal conditions for the novice as well as the experienced paddler. This is a Maryland State Park. For full information go to the official webpage. (Link on the right side)
HISTORY OF THE AREA
Paleo Indians first settled this region approximately 13,000 years ago. At that time, sea levels were 350 feet lower than today and mammoths, mastodons, horses and bison roamed across Somerset County, Maryland. As the Tangier Sound was transformed from a freshwater river to an estuary rich in shellfish, prehistoric cultures occupied the landmass that would become Janes Island. Historic artifacts that can be found along the shoreline of Janes Island provide evidence of activities by primitive man, from hunting mammals to shucking oysters. In a sense, native people living on Janes Island were practicing a lifestyle very similar to the modern watermen surviving off the bounty of the Chesapeake Bay.
CABINS
Four modern log cabins, each with a maximum capacity of six persons, are available all year. Cabins must be reserved in advance.
CAMPING
There are 104 campsites and each has a picnic table and a fire ring. Sites can accommodate tent or vehicle campers. Five camper cabins are also available.
LODGE
The Daugherty Creek Conference Center, a 16 bed facility, is available for day or overnight use as well as on a weekly basis. Reservations can be made through the park office.
BOATING
There is a boat ramp as well as 25 boat slips available to campers for a minimal fee. Canoes and kayaks are available for rent.
FISHING
Enjoy fishing in the Chesapeake Bay and Tangier Sound, with options for shoreline or boat access. Species include blue crabs, striped bass (rockfish), white perch, spot fish, croakers and flounder. Boat rentals are available on-site if needed.
LOCATION
Janes Island State Park is located near Princess Anne
NEARBY PARKS
Fairmount State Wildlife Management Area
Cedar Island State Wildlife Management Area
Martin National Wildlife Refuge
Deal Island State Wildlife Management Area
Wellington State Wildlife Management Area
PICNICKING
A picnic area of 25 tables and grills is available. There are also two picnic pavilions that can be reserved.
BIRDING
The park offers over 30 miles of water trails for birdwatching by canoe or kayak. Birders can spot species like the Great Blue Heron, Osprey and Bald Eagles. The marshlands are home to many migratory birds in spring and fall seasons. Winter brings ducks such as Buffleheads, Red-breasted Mergansers, and Tundra Swans.
JANES ISLAND STATE PARK
26280 Alfred Lawson Drive
Crisfield, Maryland 21817
Phone: 410-968-1565
Reservations: 410-968-1565
