Explore Charles County

Captivating Charles County is located just 30 short miles south of Washington D.C. With over 300 miles of Potomac River shoreline and nestled in historic Southern Maryland, Charles County offers travelers a relaxing change of pace and incredible scenery. From legendary seafood and one of a kind eateries, rich history and historic homes, antique shopping experiences, breathtaking national and state parks, and unforgettable adventures like the National Marine Sanctuary - Ghost Fleet at Mallows Bay. There is something for everyone! The possibilities for outdoor adventure here are endless, and we invite you to explore at your own pace. Drift through tranquil waters in the early morning light, pedal down a rail trail after lunch, and pitch a tent on a historic property. Discover acres of conservancy-protected land and miles of open spaces and shorelines along your way.

Charles County is one of Maryland's best kept secrets! The tranquil scenery, beauty of the landscapes and proximity to Washington D.C., Richmond and Baltimore make Charles County a great one, two or three day addition to your trip. You don't want to miss your chance to discover the allure of Explore Charles County. Southern Maryland boasts a thousand miles of shoreline and ten thousand years of history. Discover historical sites and landmarks, search our fossil-laden cliffs, kayak over ghostly sunken ships, walk the paths of the Piscataway, talk with the first colonists over a roaring fire, and taste seafood fresh from the Chesapeake Bay, Patuxent and Potomac rivers.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE:

• From Biking and Hiking to Fishing and Hunting, Charles County has something for every Adventurist.

SIP & SAVOR:

• The waters of the Potomac and Patuxent Rivers have been a food source to Charles County residents for hundreds of years. Watermen harvest succulent crabs and oysters and reel in rockfish and catfish. explore a multitude of fantastic restaurants serving local favorites. kick back with a cocktail and feel yourself unwind as you look out over the water and anticipate the boat-to-table bounty you’re about to receive

SPORTS & RECREATION:

• Charles County is home to an abundance of recreational facilities and sports focused properties. You'll find community programs & camps, pools & aquatic centers, as well as recreational sports all supported by Charles County. To learn more about these opportunities, please visit https://www.charlescountyparks.com/recreation

ATTRACTIONS:

• Shop the quaint Town of La Plata, kayak the Ghost Fleet at Mallows Bay, or catch a game with the SOMD Blue Crabs!

SHOPPING & LEISURE:

• With quaint shops, antique stores, national favorites, spas, and one of a kind finds, we have all you need!

HISTORY & HERITAGE:

• Follow your historical pursuits in our abundant stories of the past. Chase an assassin, explore historic locations, and more!

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT:

• Theatres, art galleries, and more await you to explore!

Charles County is located in Southwest Maryland, with the Potomac River and the state of Virginia bordering it to the west. The nearest airport is Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Washington DC, located 35 miles North of Charles County in Arlington, Virginia. A trip from the Dulles International Airport in VA to Charles County will take you 58 miles around Western D.C and into Southern Maryland. Additionally, travel from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport to Charles County will take you 64 miles from Baltimore County, around Eastern D.C and into Southern Maryland.