We stopped by this park on a random day trip to Annapolis. Although we intended to mainly check out…read morethe trails at Quiet Waters, I decided to take a break from our walk and visit the dog park. First, I really appreciated that the park was separated with sections for large and small dogs. Second, the section for the large dogs is pretty large. Unfortunately during our visit, there were no other dogs at the park. While there was plenty of open space, I didn't notice too much shade, which is probably why there were not too many dogs during our early afternoon visit, but I guess that's a minor concern. Although we do not live in Annapolis, I can see us visiting again (even with the $9 entrance fee) as a means to tire out the pup before checking out a local restaurant.

This is a cute idea, a great quiet spot adjacent to the water in a beautiful park so your dogs can…read moreromp in the water off leash. I'm not sure if something has changed recently but I went there today and there are big gaps on both sides of the fence where a dog can easily escape, on both the gate and other side, and on the far side, the dog would get loose into the tall grass and wetlands where it would be impossible to chase them. If your dog won't go far and/or has good recall maybe not a problem but I was definitely not comfortable taking my dog off leash here.

So cute! A darling little beach with good nature trails just an hour from DC. Make sure that you…read morereserve your day pass in advance as you can't get in without one on busy weekends. It's free right now but the gate attendant said eventually it will be $6. They are currently building bathrooms and a rinse-off station, but they have porta potties for now. Nicely paved roads to get there, a Safeway en route (coming from DC), and an easy walk to the beach from the parking lot. Entering the park via the gatehouse, the beach is to the right. Follow the trail and signs past the small playground on the right and past the pond on the left. I recommend going to the right once you get to the beach itself as it was less crowded the day I was there. A couple rules important to know before you go. You can drive up closer to the beach to unload, but no parking there unless you have a handicapped sticker/plate. Also, no dogs on the beach unless it's a service dog. There is a ranger walking around so don't try it as you'll be disappointed (as I saw two families have to leave). And no climbing on the break wall rocks. Seems fun, so why not? The ranger said that very aggressive (but non-poisonous) water snakes live there, eek! Also, since I went in August, beware of the jellyfish--they were everywhere. But I also saw huge schools of tiny fish and lots of birds (seagulls, pelican, etc). The beach does not have any natural shade. I had read on the website no umbrellas or tents but I saw tons of families with them and they didn't get in trouble. Bring your snacks and drinks and beach comforts as there are no concessions, just the beach! And the water itself was clear to start but then got more cloudy and had seaweed as the day went on. It's nice and shallow, so I think we will come back when the jellyfish aren't so numerous.

45-minutes from Washington, D.C. Beverly Triton Nature Park is one of the closest beaches to the…read morecity. On top of that, it's a protected park with trails and views. Here's why you should visit: 1) Parking: There's a small lot that fills up fast during the summer. My daughter and I went on an August Friday morning and had to wait a few minutes for someone to leave. There is a lot across the street, but it also fills up too. Parking is free. 2) Trails: There are several short hikes perfect for toddlers. My four-year-old daughter was able to hike the Triton Trail on her own without a stroller or asking to be carried. 3) Beach: The fastest way to the beach is down the paved trail by the main parking lot. It takes 1-2 minutes to walk to the long, but narrow public beach. Bring sunscreen and bug spray. There's no shade at all. 4) Outhouses: There are two outhouses at the main parking lot AND another one at the beach entrance. Unless you want to change in a dirty outhouse, put on your swimsuit before you arrive.

This is a phenomenal dog park all the way at the end of the road. They have a small dog section,…read moreseparate from the large dog section. Most patrons are friendly and respectful of dog park etiquette. I have never encountered a reckless owner or aggressive dog. There are benches and chairs and lots of trees that provide shade from the sun. There is a concrete pad with dog bowls and kiddie pools. There is a water hose that you can use to replenish the water bowls and pools. The grass and dirt areas are maintained well. I really like this park!

This is my pups favorite dog park! There's lots of space, like it's massive!, and almost always a…read moregood amount of dogs for him to play with! The hose and small pool let's dogs cool off on hot days as well as shaded, grassy areas. I've seen nothing but respectful owners who are diligent about cleaning up their dogs waste and supervising their fur babies. On hot or dry days it can be a little dusty and if the hose and pool is full it can get a little muddy, so maybe bring a brush or towel if you don't want your seats dirty but I highly recommend it! Also it's usually best to wear shoes or pants that aren't your favorite as some dogs jump up to say hi with wet and dirty paws lol They even have a rack for you to hang your leash and things which is nice to be able to be hands free. It's a bit of a drive for us but with how exhausted he is when we go home it's so worth it!

Nice little park here in Arnold. Not very busy most of the time. There is a playground for kids,…read morea dog park and a decent amount of parking.

This is one of the nicest parks and has an impressive array of equipment, fields, trails, and…read moreshelters. We visited twice while in the area -- once near dusk and once in the midmorning hours. The park is well utilized and populated with other park goers and sporting activities. Plenty of parking, easy access, and restroom facilities of portable toilet near the playground and soccer field. Witnessed several soccer games and lacrosse team sports while visiting and driving through the park. Stadium lighting enabled game play after the sun had set. Fields all appeared to be well maintained. Fitness trail with instructional signage and equipment was well maintained and an impressive feature. Plenty of trails could be seen from our vantage point. Multiple covered shelters with plenty of picnic tables. Lots of dog walkers and foot traffic. We enjoyed the pirate ship playground equipment as well as swings, including one specifically outfitted to accommodate special needs. Play activity equipment was scattered around the large soft-surface playground, including a drum and bell stand and spinning equipment, with a handful of benches scattered about surrounding the area to accommodate watchful oversight close by. Stamp of approval from the 3-year-old and all of the adults in our group. Would visit again.

One of my favorite parks in the state…read more Tons of beautiful trails, kayaks for rent, a dog beach, dog park, amphitheater, exercise equipment, butterfly garden, playground, there's something for everyone. There is an entry fee for non AA county residents of $8 and for residents it's maybe $5, cash or card. Lots of parking at all different places. Recommend coming early on nice days to avoid crowds. I have been many times to do many things and we always enjoy coming back!

Glad that we visited this wonderful spot near Annapolis, as it was comforting and beautiful, a…read morepopular place to enjoy outdoor beauty and the Chesapeake Bay! Numerous trails and options throughout, and the park is open from 7 AM until dusk. Among the options are a dog park, art galleries, playgrounds, kayak rentals, ice skating, and picnic areas. I did not get to the Visitors Center, as it closed at 4 PM. We visited the South River Overlook Trail, which was four-tenths of a mile in length, and had benches at the water to fully enjoy and appreciate the spectacular views. There are six other trails, ranging to as much as a mile and one-half in length. An $8 entry fee for automobiles, additional for larger vehicles, and they also offer lifetime senior passes.

If you are thinking about taking your puppy to this dog park, please consider these small facts:…read more- It's poorly managed and free - Anyone can bring their dog there, and most pet owners bring dogs who are not trained or are aggressive with other dogs - Many dog owners who come to this free dog park are severely inexperienced with dog training. I've been here four times, and three times while I had my dog on the leash conducting training, other dogs have tried to attack my dogs, and the owners of these dogs did not really care about their dog's temperament. If you do consider coming to this dog park, please bring pepper spray so you can deter the dogs belonging to lazy and inexperienced owners.

I came out to see if in fact the dog park was open (since COVID closed many parks). Another visitor…read morestated it was reopened last month. This is a nice place to socialize your dog. It gives them plenty of room to play & roam. They supply dog bags but somehow many patrons still fail to pick up after their dog(s). There's 3 benches for the people. I like the one way in the back under the tree. For some reason the dogs always play & stay towards the front. The park also provides water via a cooler which may or may not be full depending on 1) the weather and 2) if the staff are checking it regularly. I also like the mulch as it makes cleaning up easier. Overall, it's a good dog park!

Ambience: Downs Park is one of those hidden gems that feels…read morelike a deep breath. It's spacious, peaceful, and full of variety. Whether you want to walk along the waterfront, sit on a bench with a view, or just let the breeze hit your face while your kids play. It has a little bit of everything. I've been here at least 5-7 times and still haven't explored it all! Playground: There's something for every age group from a sweet tot lot for the little ones to a multi-level climbing structure with twisty slides that kept my oldest busy for a while. There are swings, a merry-go-round, and plenty of open space to run around or play. Scenic Walks & Waterfront: We usually park near the visitor center (convenient and close to everything!) and stroll down to the pier or relax on the benches with that peaceful waterfront view. You'll find grassy picnic spots, a pier with folks fishing, and even a small beach and separate dog beach. The trails are partly shaded and the breeze coming off the water makes it feel extra calming. Stroller-Friendly: Yes, it's stroller-friendly! The trails are paved, but heads-up: it's not totally flat there are some hills. Still, it's very walkable and manageable with a stroller. Great for littles who need a nap or just want a ride. Extras: Bathrooms are located inside the visitor center, and there's a quiet garden area called Mary's Garden if you need a tranquil reset. I've always had friendly experiences with the park staff when entering and asking questions. Parking is $6 per car and there's usually plenty of space, especially if you don't mind walking a bit. Why I Love It: This park has become one of my go-to spots when we need a peaceful outing. Between the water views, the open space, and the mix of kid-friendly and adult-friendly features, it's just easy to love. Perfect for picnics, gentle mornings, or letting your thoughts wander while the kids play.

This dog beach is smaller than the one in Annapolis, but still is nice. I came here on Memorial Day…read moreand there was quite a lot of dogs. The dog beach rules are pretty much the same as with any other dog beach. Children under six years old must be accompanied by an adult. No human or dog food allowed on the beach. Humans aren't allowed to swim in the water. And of course, no aggressive dogs. I do wish there was a wash station either at the beach or nearby, which would be very convenient to both human and dog.