Point Lookout State Park | Baltimore

Point Lookout State Park is a significant historical and recreational area located at the southernmost tip of Maryland’s Western Shore in St. Mary’s County. Covering about 1,083 acres, the park lies where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Potomac River, providing spectacular waterfront views, rich natural habitats, and a deep connection to American history, particularly from the Civil War era.

Historical Significance

Point Lookout has a profound historical legacy, primarily as a major Civil War site. During the war, it served as the location of Camp Hoffman, one of the largest Union prisoner-of-war camps for Confederate soldiers. From 1863 to 1865, more than 50,000 Confederate prisoners were held in harsh conditions on this peninsula. The camp is notorious for its overcrowding, inadequate shelter, limited food supplies, and outbreaks of disease, which tragically led to the deaths of around 4,000 prisoners.

In addition to the prison camp, Point Lookout also hosted a Union hospital that treated wounded soldiers from the war. The site’s military importance extends back even further, with the Point Lookout Lighthouse, built in 1830, serving as a navigational aid to ships entering the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay for nearly two centuries. The lighthouse itself is now a museum, providing visitors with insight into maritime history and access to panoramic views from its tower.

Natural Environment and Wildlife

The park’s unique location at the convergence of two major waterways creates a rich and diverse ecosystem. The landscape includes sandy beaches, tidal wetlands, salt marshes, and wooded uplands. This variety of habitats supports a wide range of wildlife, including migratory birds, waterfowl, deer, foxes, and small mammals. The park is especially noted for its importance as a stopover for migrating birds along the Atlantic Flyway, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers, particularly during spring and fall migrations.

The tidal marshes and wetlands play critical roles in filtering water, providing nursery areas for fish and crustaceans, and sustaining the overall health of the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem.

Recreational Activities and Amenities

Camping:
Point Lookout State Park offers 143 campsites situated in wooded areas, including sites with electric and water hookups as well as more primitive options. The campground is well-maintained, providing restrooms, showers, and a camp store. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during the busy summer months.

Swimming and Beach Activities:
The park features a designated swimming beach along the Chesapeake Bay, open seasonally from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The beach area includes picnic tables, grills, restrooms, and showers. Swimming is generally safe here due to the protected bay waters.

Fishing:
Fishing is a popular activity at Point Lookout, with options including surf fishing along the bay beaches and fishing from a 710-foot pier that extends into the water. The park supports a variety of species such as striped bass, croaker, bluefish, and spot. Anglers must possess a valid Maryland fishing license.

Boating and Water Sports:
Boat launch facilities accommodate motorboats, kayaks, and canoes, providing access to both the Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac River. Rentals and supplies may be available nearby. A fish-cleaning station supports recreational fishing activities.

Hiking and Nature Trails:
The park includes several miles of hiking trails that wind through different habitats such as salt marshes, forests, and open fields. Trails vary in difficulty and length, providing opportunities for casual walks and more immersive nature experiences. These paths also serve as excellent birdwatching spots, with interpretive signs educating visitors about local flora and fauna.

Cultural and Educational Features

Point Lookout Civil War Museum:
Located within the park, the museum focuses on the site's Civil War history, particularly the Confederate prisoner-of-war camp and the Union hospital. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and interpretive displays that tell the story of the soldiers, camp conditions, and the broader context of the war in Maryland.

Point Lookout Lighthouse Museum:
The lighthouse, operational from 1830 until recent decades, was restored and opened to the public as a museum. Visitors can tour the lighthouse, explore exhibits on maritime navigation, and climb the tower for panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay, Potomac River, and surrounding landscapes.

Visitor Information

Location: Point Lookout, Scotland, Maryland, at the southern tip of St. Mary’s County.

Park Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset; some facilities may have seasonal hours.

Admission: There is a day-use fee for parking and access to some amenities. Camping fees apply separately.

Facilities: Restrooms, picnic areas with tables and grills, playgrounds, showers, camp store, fishing pier, boat launch, and parking.

Accessibility: Certain areas and facilities are accessible to visitors with disabilities; check with the park for specific accommodations.

Summary

Point Lookout State Park is a remarkable destination combining natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and deep historical significance. Its role as a major Civil War site provides a poignant historical backdrop, while its coastal environment supports diverse wildlife and offers ample recreational opportunities. Visitors can camp, swim, fish, hike, and explore museums that tell stories spanning centuries-from early maritime navigation to the harsh realities of wartime imprisonment. The park’s unique setting at the meeting point of two major waterways makes it an enduring treasure of Maryland’s natural and cultural heritage.