Chesapeake Bay
Over 41 million acres are connected through the waters that flow to and through Chesapeake Bay.
Photo: NPS Photo / NPS
About Chesapeake Bay
Over 41 million acres are connected through the waters that flow to and through Chesapeake Bay. The National Park Service strives to connect people to the opportunities and adventures throughout the watershed. Inspiring stewardship across this vast region supports recreation, business, tourism, learning, and a thriving natural resource for all to enjoy.
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DCdrive time
MDdrive time
DCdrive time
MDdrive time
DCdrive time
DCdrive time
Driving times from Chesapeake Bay, one way, via road — a realistic day is 8–10 hours behind the wheel.
Hours
NPS Chesapeake Bay Office Hours
- Mon
- 9:00AM - 4:00PM
- Tue
- 9:00AM - 4:00PM
- Wed
- 9:00AM - 4:00PM
- Thu
- 9:00AM - 4:00PM
- Fri
- 9:00AM - 4:00PM
- Sat
- Closed
- Sun
- Closed
Activities
Getting there
Annapolis, Maryland has a warm humid temperate climate with hot summers and no dry season. Over the course of a year, the temperature typically varies from 29°F to 86°F and is rarely below 19°F or above 91°F. The warm season lasts from May 30 to September 18 with an average daily high temperature above 77°F. The cold season lasts from November 29 to March 4 with an average daily high temperature below 50°F.
Frequently asked questions
- What is there to do at Chesapeake Bay?
- Popular activities include Boating, Compass and GPS, Geocaching, Guided Tours, Junior Ranger Program, Paddling.
- Which national parks are within a day's drive of Chesapeake Bay?
- Within about a day's drive you can reach Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail (under a minute), Baltimore-Washington Parkway (34 min), Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens (39 min), Greenbelt Park (39 min), Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail (42 min), Capitol Hill Parks (43 min).