Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary
Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary · AA County Rec & Parks✓
Nature day camps at a county-run wetlands sanctuary on the Patuxent River in Lothian, where campers catch frogs along the marsh boardwalk, seine for fish, wade in streams, build forts and test water quality. Camps are age-tiered from ages 4-6 through 8-10, and separate water-sports weeks teach kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding with nationally certified instructors, ending with a cardboard-boat race and a trip to a county waterfront park. Fees run about $250 per child, and the nonprofit Friends of Jug Bay funds scholarships for elementary and middle school students who could not otherwise attend.
Sessions & rates
| Session | Dates | Ages | Price | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forest Discovery Camp (Ages 5-7)09:30 – 13:30 | Jun 22 – Jun 26, 2026 | 5–16 | $200/wk | Past season |
| Nature Explorers Camp (Ages 8-10)09:30 – 15:30 | Jul 6 – Jul 10, 2026 | 5–16 | $275/wk | Past season |
| River Adventure II (Ages 13-16)09:30 – 15:30 | Jul 27 – Jul 31, 2026 | 5–16 | $330/wk | Past season |
Availability shown as of Jun 28, 2026.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
Camps nearby
Google Reviews
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★★★★★Ami HazellWonderful place!, Any time of year it is a beatiful place for hiking, bird watching .They have many programs for adults and children. They have a great summer camp for children! They also have many opportunities to volunteer!
★★★★★LABF AdminLucky and Blessed Fishing was really blessed by the staff and volunteers at Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary. Nature learning at its best in Anne Arundel County! Thank you!
★★★★★Grace MarchelloWhat a beautiful natural sanctuary. There are a variety of trail lengths to choose from. At times it can be difficult to discern where the path goes because of lack of markers. You must see the Chris Swarth Boardwalk that takes you a few hundred feet into the swamp. It's very serene. There are multiple entrances with varying amounts of parking spots. It's free and you can bring your leashed dog as well.
★★★★★Hector JeyakaranPicturesque and easy trails; waterfowl, beaver, muskrat seen in favorable weather. Couple of the trails currently under maintenance. Nice visitor center and small gift shop. Very quiet during our visit, adequate parking.
★★★★★Connie MassaroSimply beautiful. Very peaceful. Nature Center staff very helpful, knowledgeable and friendly. Entry is paid by car ($6) not by individuals. The short boardwalk just below the Nature Center was closed - looks like it will be that way for a while. But don’t let that stop you from visiting. We took the Railroad Trail to the end. There are two lovely boardwalks off this trail - take them. The Railroad Trail was very cool - the trees provided lots of shade during this hot weather. Lovely river and marsh views.