Education
Patuxent River Park offers a variety of nature and historical interpretive programs and outdoor recreation activities for school children and the public. Our programs align with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Some programs are offered year-round while others are seasonal. A reservation is required for all activities.
- All Grades and Ages
- Preschool and Kindergarten
- Kindergarten - 5th Grade
- 6th - 12th Grade
- Other Group Programs
Estuary Experience
This three-hour program package is a great way to experience our unique riverfront park. The package consists of a River Ecology Boat Tour, a Guided Wetland Hike, and Fish Seining (seining may be substituted based on the age of the participants). Specific subject matter can be tailored to what your students are learning in the classroom. Limited to 60 participants.
April-October.
Fee: Resident $7; Non-resident $10
Guided Wetland Nature Hike
The Black Walnut Creek Nature Study Area provides a unique opportunity to observe the tidal and non-tidal wetlands of the river. Boardwalks provide easy access to these valuable habitats.
Fee: Resident $3; Non-resident $4
River Ecology Boat Tour
A guided boat tour will give students the opportunity to learn about the river's wetlands, wildlife, and history from the water. Students will learn the identification of common plants and animals, the current research being conducted by the park staff, and management issues needed to protect the ecosystem. April-October.
Fee: Resident $3; Non-resident $4
Nature Craft
This program, full of hands-on activities, has been developed to educate Pre-school and Kindergarten children about nature through an interactive craft, story, and game. The program lasts 30-45 minutes. Choose from: Bugs & Blooms or Tree Leaves. The program can be presented at your facility, or as part of a field trip to Patuxent River Park.
Fee: Resident $3; Non-resident $4
Offsite Fee: Resident $4; Non-resident $5
Sweet Pollinators
This program has students fly around like a bee to get sweet nectar from flowers and pass the pollen in an interactive game. Students will learn about different types of pollinators and their unique adaptations, and how pollination plays a role in the plant life cycle. This program can be presented at your facility or as part of a field trip to Patuxent River Park and lasts 45 minutes to one hour.
Fee: Resident $3; Non-resident $4
Offsite Fee: Resident $4; Non-resident $5
Tidal Treasures
This show-and-tell-like program is designed to introduce students to the Patuxent River, its wetlands, and what can be found in them. The presentation and hands-on activities last 45 minutes to one hour. This program can be presented at your facility, or as part of a field trip to Patuxent River Park.
Fee: Resident $3; Non-resident $4
Offsite Fee: Resident $4; Non-resident $5
Beaver Tales
Learn about beavers, how they affect their environment, and their specialized adaptations that enable them to live in the wetlands. Beaver Tales can last about 45 minutes to one hour and can be presented at your facility, or as part of a field trip package.
Fee: Resident $3; Non-resident $4
Offsite Fee: Resident $4; Non-resident $5
Estuary Experience
This three-hour program package is a great way to experience our unique riverfront park. The package consists of a River Ecology Boat Tour, a Guided Wetland Hike, and Fish Seining (seining may be substituted based on the age of the participants). Specific subject matter can be tailored to what your students are learning in the classroom. Limited to 60 participants.
April-October.
Fee: Resident $7; Non-resident $10
Guided Canoe/Kayak Trip
Explore the natural beauty of the river on this 3-hour guided kayak trip. Kayaks, canoes, paddles, personal flotation devices (PFDs) and certified instructor provided.
April-October. Participant limitations apply - contact the Park (301-627-6074) for more information.
Fee: Resident $30; Non-resident $39
Estuary Experience
This three-hour program package is a great way to experience our unique riverfront park. The package consists of a River Ecology Boat Tour, a Guided Wetland Hike, and Fish Seining (seining may be substituted based on the age of the participants). Specific subject matter can be tailored to what your students are learning in the classroom. Limited to 60 participants.
April-October.
Fee: Resident $7; Non-resident $10
Watershed Connections
Let our staff introduce watershed function to your students. Participants will develop their scientific method skills, map out their watershed, and model how a watershed interacts with the Chesapeake Bay. This program can be presented at your facility, or as part of a field trip to Patuxent River Park
Fee: Resident $3; Non-resident $4
Offsite Fee: Resident $4; Non-resident $5
Patuxent Rural Life Museums Tour
Adults, Seniors
Guided tours of Patuxent Rural Life Museums are available year round. The tour guide tells the story of the six buildings as each one is visited. Please call Patuxent River Park at 301-627-6074 for reservations.
Fee: Resident $3; Non-resident $4
Birding Trip
Adults, Seniors
The Jug Bay area of the park provides for some of the most outstanding birding found anywhere in Maryland. Guided birding trips are available year round. Limited to 14 participants.
Fee: Resident $5; Non-resident $7
The Traveling Naturalist
Adults, Seniors
Do you need an interesting presentation for your group? Want to travel to exotic, faraway places? See interesting wildlife and spectacular scenery? Then, let our naturalist/photographer take you on a virtual slide tour of some of the most beautiful places on the planet without leaving your seat. These 90-minute presentations can be done at your facility. Natural and cultural history include Brazil, The Galapagos Islands, Iceland, South Africa, Australia, Yellowstone, Glacier parks and more! Call 301-627-6074 for pricing and availability.
Disability Accommodation Statement
The Department of Parks and Recreation encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities. Contact the park at least a minimum of two weeks in advance of your program to request and receive a disability accommodation.