Photo by Kate Livie
Photo by Andover Media
As the season changes and you’re looking to enjoy the beautiful spring weather, remember that outdoor adventures and sustainable eco-travel abound in Kent County, Maryland. The picturesque area of the Chesapeake Bay has plenty of room to explore without crowds. Kent County is known for its uncompromised nature, a slew of outdoor activities to enjoy it with, a love of sustainable cuisine, environmentally friendly lodging—and it’s all paired with sweeping river and bay views.
Get Back to Nature
Getting outdoors is an incredible salve for spring fever. Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge’s (ENNWR) roads and trails are open to visitors to experience wildlife and outdoor activities.
Incredible birding experiences exist on Eastern Neck Island, a refuge for migratory birds as well as our national emblem, the bald eagle. Luckily, for budding ornithologists, winged wonders migrate thousands of miles each year searching for the perfect place to land, much to the delight of those visitors on the lookout. Songbirds and a plethora of other species tend to be more plentiful during the warmer months, and all can be seen from the refuge’s many observation platforms and trails.
Photo by Chris Cerino
Eco-Friendly Stays
For eco-conscious traveler, there’s no better spot in Kent County than waterfront camping at BayShore Campground in Rock Hall. The campground is located directly on the Chesapeake Bay, providing a peaceful and relaxing retreat among nature with a minimal carbon footprint. Even pets can take in amazing waterfront views and breathtaking sunsets. BayShore Campground is pet-friendly and encourages campers to bring their four-legged pals.
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly retreat, stay at the cottage located at Crow Vineyard and Winery, which is only a few miles north of Chestertown in Kennedyville. The cottage, situated on a 365-acre working farm, perfect for guests wanting to stretch their legs along the vineyard, pastures or woodland paths, looks out on pastures filled with cows. Guests can sip on wines made on the property and take in the stunning views of the Maryland countryside.
Eco-Adventures and Activities
Paddling through the peaceful waters of Kent County can restore anyone’s spirits. Located in the largest estuary in North America, Sultana Education Foundation offers a variety of programs for individuals, friends and families to experience the natural treasures of the Chesapeake Bay. Visitors can experience unique kayak excursions along the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Water Trail or along the Chester or Sassafras Rivers.
Matthew Lovette
Brampton Inn, MD
The area has more than two dozen fishing charter options with experienced guides, many of whom grew up fishing these same waters that they navigate. Not to be outdone, Maryland’s crabbers can take you out to some of the best crabbing spots on the Chester River. Chesapeake Bay Crabbing Charters and its captain is renowned for teaching guests how to crab with a trotline while he tells lively stories about the colorful characters among Maryland’s fishing community.
Kent County is the best of both worlds – a feeling of remote, untouched land coupled with incredible eco-conscious tourist offerings. Not a bad way to spend your next getaway from the real world.
For more information, visit: www.kentcounty.com/visitors.
