MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES MARYLAND PARK SERVICE

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Smallwood State Park

Park Status Information

​​​​​Boat Ramp Notice:​ The Smallwood State Park boat ramps will be closed for Triathlons on April 25, 2026 and June 14, 2026​. Boat traffic entering the park that day will be turned around at the park entrance and directed to other nearby boat ramps. If you have any questions prior to the date of the closure, please call the Smallwood State Park office at the contact phone number below.

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Highlights

​​​​​​​​​​​Marina at Smallwood State Park

​Park Rese​rvations
1-888-432-2267 (Toll Free)
En español

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Smallwood State Park

​Smallwood State Park​
2750 Sweden Point Road
Marbury, MD 20658​​​

Visit the DNR Event Calendar

Sign Up For Park Updates

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​​Bridge overlook

​​Information: ​301-743-7613​ (Office)
E-mail Smallwood State Park
Hours: ​5 a.m. to sunset, April to October
7 a.m. to sunset, November to March


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Welcome to Smallwood State Park!

 

Smallwood State Park, named after General William Smallwood, a native of Charles County and the highest-ranked Marylander in the American Revolutionary War, is a 628-acre park offering a variety of outdoor activities. The park features a marina, boat ramps, picnic areas, camping sites, pavilions, playgrounds, and nature trails, making it a popular spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore Smallwood’s Retreat, the historic house of General Smallwood, which has been restored and is open seasonally. The park hosts occasional craft demonstrations, military exhibitions, and other special events. With its mix of history, recreation, and natural beauty, Smallwood State Park is a great destination for both relaxation and learning.

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Points of Interest

  • Smallwood is within 40 minutes of Washington, D.C. via the Route 210 corridor.
  • Historical points of interest nearby include Thomas Stone National Historic Site, Fort Washington National Historic Site, Dr. Samuel Mudd House, Historic St. Ignatius Catholic Church, Port Tobacco Court House, and One-Room School House.
  • There are several scenic flat water canoe routes in Southern Charles County -- contact the Southern Region Nature Tourism Coordinator at 301-743-5928 for additional information.
  • Smallwood State Park is the starting point for a 26.5-mile bike tour of Southern Charles County. The entire tour is featured in Anne H. Oman's book, 25 Bicycle Tours in Maryland -- General Smallwood Country Tour.
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Get your Maryland State Park and Trail Passport 



Details about the Park

Information

 

Location

Charles County

Smallwood State Park
2750 Sweden Point Road
Marbury MD, 20658

Contact Information

Office: 301-743-7613
Duty Ranger: 240-743-8475
E-mail: [email protected]

Park Hours

  • 5 a.m. to sunset, April to October
  • 7 a.m. to sunset, November to March

Certain activities are permitted outside regular park hours (e.g., fishing, boat launch). Please check with the park before your visit if you plan to engage in an activity that requires you to be in the park before or after the posted hours.

Office Hours

  • 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., Tuesday to Thursday
  • 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday

From November to December, the office hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. From January to February, the office is closed except by appointment.

Driving Directions

When using GPS to find Smallwood State Park, please enter the park name instead of the park address into the search bar.

From Route 301 South (La Plata):
Take Route 301 South to La Plata. Turn right (west) onto Route 225 and continue to the intersection with Route 224. At the traffic light, turn left (south) onto Route 224. The park entrance is approximately 3 miles ahead on the right.

From Route 210 South (Indian Head):
Take Route 210 South and turn left (east) onto Route 225. Continue to the intersection with Route 224. At the traffic light, turn right (south) onto Route 224. The park entrance is approximately 3 miles ahead on the right.

Pet Policy

Hunting Policy

No Hunting


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Admission and Passes

 

Admission Fees

All non-Maryland residents add $2 to the listed prices.

  • $3 / person, Weekends and Holidays
  • $3 / vehicle, Weekdays
  • $10 / Boat Launch

Park Passes

Service Charges

  • Do people with disabilities get in free?
    There is no charge to persons with disabilities if they possess a Universal Disability Pass. The pass holder and one guest are admitted at no charge. Handicap tags on the vehicle or the rearview mirror do not allow free access to the park. Applications for the Universal Disability Pass can be found here.

  • Do Active Military / Veterans get in for free?
    All Active Military and Veterans enter the park at no charge. Dependants are issued a “dependant” ID that must be presented for entry into the park at no charge. Anyone who does not hold a military or veteran ID must pay the prevailing service charge to enter the park. For more information about Military benefits in the Maryland State Parks, visit their Military One-stop Shop page.

Trails and Trail Maps

 

The General’s Walk Trail – 2 miles – Moderate

A loop that spans almost 2 miles and connects our headquarters, the General's Retreat, and the campground, with multiple exits available. This trail showcases a variety of ecosystems, including hardwood forests and tidal wetlands. While some portions of the trail are easy, they are considered moderate due to the several inclines and declines.


The Birdwatcher’s Trail – ¾ of a mile – Easy

A short walk that can be done as a loop from the Mattawoman Creek Art Center, which is perfect for those wanting an easy hike as it leads through a flat wooded area and runs alongside a large meadow.


Park Trail Map

Paper copies of park maps are available from the park office.

A map of the trails at Smallwood State Park can be downloaded for free from this website. The map is in a PDF format that requires Adobe Reader. To get the free Adobe Reader, go to Adobe.com.


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Fishing and Tournaments

 

Fishing

Fishing is one of the most popular recreational activities at Smallwood State Park. Smallwood boasts several stationary piers and a shoreline from which to fish. The fish that could be caught in our brackish water include: largemouth bass, catfish, white and yellow perch, and carp. A Chesapeake Bay & Coastal Sport License is required for anyone 16 and over to fish and can be obtained through the Department of Natural Resources' MD Outdoors portal.


Bass Tournaments

The Potomac River is one of the premier Bass Fishing areas on the East Coast. Smallwood State Park hosts numerous bass fishing tournaments throughout the year. All tournaments must be registered with both the Smallwood State Park office and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Fisheries. You can find more information about DNR tournament registration requirements at the Maryland DNR Fisheries Tournament Angler page. A small tournament permit service fee is charged by the park to cover administrative costs.

Tournaments at Smallwood State Park may be booked up to one year in advance, beginning July 1st of each year. To request a tournament date, please contact the park office at 301-743-7613 or email [email protected] to confirm availability. Once your date is approved, a tournament packet will be emailed to you with instructions for completing and returning the required forms along with payment.


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Camping

 

Reservations

Reservations at Smallwood State Park can be made up to 365 days in advance by calling 1-888-432-CAMP (2267) Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., or online 24/7 at parkreservations.maryland.gov. Same-day reservations may be made during park office hours. For more information, please refer to the reservation service’s FAQ.

Click here for Family Campsite Map

See the Park's Camping Regulations

Camping

Immerse yourself in nature with a stay at Smallwood State Park’s peaceful campground, nestled beneath the canopy of a mature hardwood forest. The campground features 18 campsites, 16 of which are suitable for both RVs and tents, while 2 are designated for tents only. Each site is equipped with a camping pad, 50-amp electric and water hookups, a picnic table, a lantern post, and a fire ring with a grill attachment for all your outdoor cooking needs.


Rustic Cabins

Wood Duck & Heron Cabins (6-person capacity)

These spacious cabins feature two separate sleeping areas. The main room includes a double bed, while the rear room contains two sets of bunk beds. A wall A/C unit keeps the space comfortable. Potable water is available across the road, and 50-amp electric hookups are located at the roadside parking area.

Bass & Bluegill Cabins (4-person capacity)

These cozy one-room cabins can comfortably sleep four guests with a queen-sized bed and a twin-size bunk bed. A wall A/C unit keeps the space comfortable. 50-amp electric hookups are located at the cabin’s designated parking area, with potable water available near the bathhouse.

Please note: The Bluegill Cabin is our only pet-free and no boats allowed lodging option.

Modern Cabins

Eagle & Osprey Cabins (4-person capacity)

These waterfront cabins offer modern comfort with beautiful views. Each features a queen-sized bed on the main level and two twin mattresses in the loft. Modern cabins come equipped with a microwave, mini-fridge, and coffee maker, unlike their rustic counterparts. These cabins also feature heating and air conditioning, as well as a 50-amp electric pedestal at the designated parking area. Potable water is available near the camp bathhouse.


Firewood Policy

Due to the potential threat of the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) and other invasive beetles, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources has prohibited the importation of personal firewood into all DNR-owned and managed properties. Firewood is available in the campground next to the Camp Host site for $7/bundle or 3 bundles for $20. You are also welcome to gather any sticks and limbs that are on the ground around your site.


Youth Group Camping

Smallwood State Park offers two designated youth group camping sites, available from April through October. To reserve a site, groups must hold a valid Maryland Park Service Youth Group Pass and make a reservation in advance. Reservations are made the same way as standard campsites, either by calling 1-888-432-CAMP (2267) or visiting parkreservations.maryland.gov. For details on obtaining a Youth Group Pass, please visit the Maryland Park Service Youth Group Camping page.

Each youth site includes a fire ring with a grill and a picnic table. The sites are conveniently located near the General Smallwood Retreat House, a trailhead for the General’s Walk Trail, and the Naturescape Playground. Restrooms are approximately 500 yards away, and each site can accommodate up to 25 people. Please note that access to potable water is in the main campground.

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Picnicking and Pavilions

 

Picnicking

Grills and picnic tables are available near the General’s Store concessions building on a first-come, first-served basis. Maryland State Parks practice Leave No Trace ethics regarding trash. Guests are expected to pack out what they bring in, so please bring enough trash bags for your stay. If you find yourself needing a new trash bag, staff may be able to assist you.

Three pavilions are located on the park grounds and are available only by reservation. Please check out our Things to Know Before Renting a Pavilion at Smallwood State Park guide for more detailed information on our Pavilions. Make reservations online at parkreservations.maryland.gov or call 1-888-432-CAMP (2267).

  • Pavilion 1, accommodating 25 guests, is located in the wooded area between the campground and the Retreat House.
  • Pavilion 2, accommodating 100 guests, is located on a hill nearest to the General’s Store Concessions Building and the Discovery Center.
  • Pavilion 3, accommodating 75 guests, is found nearest to the Tobacco Barn and Youth Group Camping.

The pavilions include picnic tables, grills, and electrical receptacles. Water faucets are also available nearby. Please note that all guests for the pavilions must still pay any day-use fees to enter the park.

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Playgrounds

 

Playgrounds

​Smallwood State Park features two nature-inspired playground areas, one located in our marina area near Shelter 2 and another in our historic area near Shelter 3. Both playgrounds include swings, slides, climbing walls, and more.​


​Smallwood Playground near Shelter 2
Located near Shelter 2

Smallwood Playground near Shelter 3
​ Located near Shelter 3


Sweden Point Marina

 

Sweden Point Marina features six boat launch ramps and an ADA kayak launch available for public use during regular park hours only. A year-round launch service charge is in effect, $10 for in-state visitors and $12 for out-of-state visitors. Golden Age Passes and Season Passes are accepted in place of the launch fee. Visitors planning to remain on the water past sunset must complete a “Float Plan Form,” available at the bulletin board near the launch area. The completed slip should be placed on your vehicle's windshield before departure.

Forget something? The nearby General’s Store offers convenient dockside fueling with 89-octane, ethanol-free gasoline. In addition to fuel, the store is stocked with a variety of fishing and boating supplies, snacks, drinks, ice, and other essentials to make your day on the water complete.

Wet Slip Annual Leases – Sweden Point Marina

Sweden Point Marina is nestled on the scenic Mattawoman Creek, a tributary of the Potomac River, located just one mile from open access to the Potomac. The marina offers 45 wet slips available for annual lease, providing convenient access to some of the region’s best fishing spots.

The marina can accommodate boats up to 40 feet in length, with water depths averaging around 6 feet at the shallowest point and slips approximately 12 feet wide. Each slip includes access to potable water and either 30-amp or 50-amp electric service. Slip renters enjoy 24-hour access to their vessels year-round. Annual leases are based on the length of the boat and include one complimentary dry storage space for trailerable vessels.


Transient Slips – Sweden Point Marina

Sweden Point Marina offers three transient slips for boaters traveling along the tidal Potomac River. Vessels arriving by water are welcome, and spaces may be reserved in advance by calling the park office at 301-743-7613.

The marina can accommodate boats up to 40 feet in length, with water depths averaging around 6 feet at the shallowest point and slips approximately 12 feet wide. Slips include access to potable water and, for an additional charge, either 30 or 50 amp electric service. Slip rates are based on the length of the boat. Dry storage is not included with transient rentals. Transient slips are for vessels arriving by water.

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General's Store and Discovery Center

 

The General’s Store

Open seasonally from April to October

Conveniently located near the boat ramp and picnic areas, the General’s Store at Smallwood State Park is your one-stop shop for all things outdoors. Whether you're camping for the weekend, heading out on the water, or just enjoying a day at the park, we’ve got you covered. The store offers a wide selection of camping, fishing, and boating supplies, along with live bait, snacks, ice, drinks, and hot food to keep you fueled for your adventure. Boaters can even refuel right at the dock with our 89-octane, ethanol-free gasoline.


The Discovery Center

Open Seasonally from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend

Come inside to learn about the plants and animals that make Mattawoman Creek their home! The Sweden Point Discovery Center features nature displays and is home to our animal ambassadors, which include 5 different species of turtles and a corn snake, who help us educate others about the wildlife you find in the area.

Interested in volunteering at the Discovery Center? The Discovery Center is always looking for volunteers to help staff care for our animal ambassadors and educate visitors. Check out our volunteer opportunities for more information


Historic Area

Created in 1957, Smallwood State Park takes its name from General William Smallwood, a major general who served in the Continental Army during the American War of Independence and, later, served as the 4th Governor of Maryland. His restored plantation house, called Smallwood's “Retreat,” is located on park grounds. If you're looking for more information on the life of General Smallwood, his plantation, and the creation of the park, check out our “Smallwood State Park’s History” page.

Help keep history alive by volunteering with the Friends of Smallwood. From guiding tours to demonstrating colonial cooking, there are many ways to get involved. Visit our volunteer page to learn more.

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Retreat House Historic Area

 

Smallwood’s Retreat


Tours & Programs

Guided tours of General Smallwood’s Retreat House, along with colonial cooking demonstrations, are offered by the Friends of Smallwood volunteers. Tour dates vary throughout the season—please contact the Friends group for current availability. A special Colonial Christmas Open House is typically held in early December.

📧 [email protected]


About the Retreat

Smallwood’s Retreat House is a restored 18th-century tidewater plantation featuring a detached kitchen. Unlike many wealthy planters of his time who lived in large Georgian mansions, General Smallwood chose a smaller, more practical home that suited his bachelor lifestyle.

After his death, the Retreat fell into disrepair until 1958, when a group of dedicated Southern Maryland residents completed a 20-year restoration effort to preserve the historic structure.


Historic Grounds

The outbuildings surrounding the house represent structures known or believed to have existed on the property, including features such as a pumphouse and outhouse. These elements help illustrate daily life on an 18th-century plantation.

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Smallwood's Retreat

 

Smallwood’s Retreat

Guided tours of General Smallwood's Retreat Home, along with colonial cooking demonstrations, are held on the first Saturday of each month from May to September at 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

A special Colonial Christmas open house is often held in early December, courtesy of the Friends of Smallwood volunteers. Please call 301-743-7613 or email [email protected] for details.

Smallwood’s Retreat House is a restored 18th-century tidewater plantation featuring a detached kitchen. While other wealthy planters lived in grand Georgian mansions, General Smallwood preferred a smaller, more practical home that suited his bachelor status. After his death, Smallwood’s Retreat fell into disrepair until 1958, when a group of concerned Southern Maryland residents finished their 20-year-long mission to restore the historic house. The outbuildings surrounding the house illustrate structures that are known to have existed or are likely to have been near the house, such as a pumphouse or outhouse.


Tobacco Barn

Self-guided tours are available every day from Memorial Day to Labor Day during park hours.

The early 19th-century tobacco barn was originally from Bryans Road in Charles County. In the 1980s, the barn was surveyed and was said to be “a rare survival, typical of colonial tobacco barn design, and is one of two remaining in Charles County.” In order to prevent its demolition, it was dismantled and rebuilt at Smallwood State Park to be used as an interpretive center. Today, inside the barn, you can see historic plantation tools that would have been used at plantations to process the tobacco and learn about General William Smallwood's Mattawoman Plantation.

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Volunteer Opportunities

 

Volunteer opportunities

A message from the Park Manager of the Southern Maryland Recreational Complex (SMRC), Ranger Jacob Wells:
The Southern Maryland Recreational Complex (SMRC) comprises nearly 20,000 acres, spanning four counties. It includes a state forest, two state wildlands, six state parks, and numerous natural resource management areas. We boast some of the Free State’s very finest jewels, and an invaluable corps of volunteers strings these gems together.

Our facilities simply could not run without the selfless contributions provided by our volunteers and “Friends of” groups. Wherever you wish to volunteer in the SMRC, we welcome you, as do our vital affiliates: the Friends of Calvert Cliffs State Park, the Friends of Chapman State Park, the Friends of Smallwood State Park, and Rosaryville Conservancy. Together with our staff, these groups perform park operations, patrols, historic interpretation, special events management, park maintenance, trail work, beach cleanups, environmental education programs, fishing derbies, and much, much more.


Find Volunteer Opportunities

From historical research to monitoring the trails, we offer a variety of opportunities for people looking to help out the park. Check out our available volunteer opportunities.

Contact the Volunteer Coordinator at Smallwood State Park If you are interested in being a state park volunteer but are unable to commit to any of the current opportunities or can't find an opportunity that meets your interests, you can still sign up and register. Doing so will ensure that the Volunteer Coordinator is aware of your interest and will contact you to explore future possibilities. Thank you for your interest in volunteering with Maryland State Parks.

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Accessibility

 

​Accessibility

Smallwood State Park offers an accessible fishing pier, marina office, campground bathhouses, shelters, six camper cabins and day use comfort stations. For additional accessible amenities in Maryland State Parks, visit the Accessibility For All section of this website.

Smallwood Strategic Management Plan

 

The Plan is available to download and read via the link below.​

Download the plan as a PDF here.


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The Osprey Cam at Smallwood

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Welcome to the Osprey Cam at Smallwood State Park in Marbury, Maryland! Thanks to the Southern Maryland Audubon Society, we’re excited to share a live feed of an Osprey nest here. Ospreys are most active on the nest from mid-March to early July, though other birds, like Bald Eagles, may visit at times.

Please note, this is a wild nest, and while we hope for a successful nesting season, we do not interfere with their natural cycle, which can include encounters with predators or natural events. Each year, park staff work with a licensed bird bander to monitor the chicks and place a federal ID band on their legs. These bands help track the Ospreys’ travels. For example, a female Osprey with the band Z07 was tracked back to her birthplace in Northern Ohio. We hope to continue this important monitoring for future ​generations of Ospreys!


Have you spotted an osprey bringing a tasty fish back to the nest? Help us catalog their catches below​!
I Spy with the Osprey!​

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Sign Up For Park Updates


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Amped to Camp!

Smallwood State Park’s campground offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, perfect for both seasoned campers and first-timers. The campground features 18 campsites for tents or RVs, and six cozy cabins. Campers have access to a bathhouse with hot showers, a dump station, and 50-amp electric and potable water hook-ups at each site. Located near the scenic Mattawoman Creek, the campground is just steps away from hiking trails, fishing spots, and wildlife viewing.

Ready to Pack?
Get all the Deets Here!


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Bass Tournaments

Smallwood State Park is a popular destination for bass fishing and tournament events on the Potomac River. With direct access to Mattawoman Creek, the park regularly hosts local and regional tournaments throughout the season. Our 6 boat ramps, ample trailer parking, and convenient General’s Store make us a favorite launch site for anglers of all levels. All tournaments must be registered with both the Smallwood State Park office and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Fisheries. For tournament availability, tournament rules, weigh station guidelines, or to book a tournament, please contact the park office at 301-743-7613 or [email protected].


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Other Parks to Visit Nearby