Point Lookout State Park is located
in Maryland at the southernmost tip of the western shore on the
peninsula formed by Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac River. Outdoor
adventures like boating, swimming, and windsurfing are all available
in the waters of the point, and there are 3 fishing areas and
a 710-ft. pier to keep the anglers busy. Landlubbers and sunbathers
can stay on the sand and still enjoy themselves thanks to the
grills, picnic tables and playgrounds for the kids.
Hikers and bikers have several trails to enjoy, all of which start
in the parking lots. The trails provide exercise and interesting
scenery, like Lake Conroy, the remains of Fort Lincoln and wildlife
in the form of migratory birds.
Camping in the park requires a reservation. The park provides
143 sites, some with amenities, and has 6 extremely modest 4-person
cabins for overnight stays. There are no pets, smoking or cooking
allowed in the cabins, but a fire-pit is available for grilling.
One interesting feature of the park is its American Civil War
history. Point Lookout Maryland was the location of a POW camp
that held over 52,000 rebel soldiers. There is a Civil War Museum
& Marshland Nature Center in the Point Lookout State Park
that examines the parks war history, though it’s only open
on weekends through the summer.
Point Lookout State Park is very much a
seasonal park. Things like vehicle access, camp access and restroom
availability are non-existent in the winter and limited in early spring.
Ghosts of the former POW camp are said
to stalk the woods at night around Point Lookout and Fort Lincoln. Don’t
say we didn’t warn you.
