Located along the eastern shore of Maryland near the city of Crisfield, Jane’s Island is the home of Jane’s Island State Park, which features 30 miles of water trails and a number of natural isolated beach areas. The land that now encompasses Jane’s Island State Park was originally inhabited by Paleoindians more than 13,000 years ago, when sea levels were more than 350 feet lower than during the modern era and the area was populated by woolly mammoths, mastodons, and bison.

  • What is the history of Jane’s Island State Park?
    • Following the end of the most recent Ice Age, the Tangier Sound evolved from a freshwater river into an estuary ecosystem, leading to shifts in the culture of the area’s indigenous people, such as fishing and oyster-shucking.
    • By the time Europeans arrived, the island was inhabited by the Annemessex Nation.
    • Throughout the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries, the island was home to fishermen and small communities, but storm damage and erosion led to its decline into an uninhabited marshland by the early 20th century.
    • In 1963, the State of Maryland authorized the creation of Jane’s Island State Park.
    • From 1965 to 1978, over $1 million was allocated for the development of the park, including erosion control measures and the construction of camping facilities on the mainland.
  • What is Jane’s Island State Park like today?
    • Operated by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the park spans 2,900 acres of salt marsh and features 30 miles of water trails.
    • The island is located between the Tangier Sound and the Little Annemessex River, serving as a wildlife refuge for bird, fish, and crab species.
    • The park is open daily from sunset to sunrise, with extended hours available for fishing and hunting.
    • Visitors can explore accessible facilities such as the Park Store and Nature Center.
  • Are there water trails at Jane’s Island State Park?
    • Yes, the park features more than 30 miles of marked water trails, which wind through its salt marsh environment.
    • These trails have been listed on the American Canoe Association’s list of recommended water trails.
    • The area is suitable for both beginner and advanced paddlers due to its easy current and wind-protected atmosphere.
    • The trails lead to a seven-mile stretch of pristine beaches, which visitors are welcome to explore.
    • Backcountry camping sites are available along the trails for those who obtain a backcountry camping permit.
  • What boating services are available?
    • The park offers canoe and kayak rentals from the Park Store between late April and mid-October.
    • Boats are available on a first-come, first-served basis for hourly or daily rentals.
    • Other services include a launching ramp and boat slips for campers.
    • Fishing and crabbing opportunities are available, as well as a fish cleaning station for visitors with a Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License.
    • The park’s marina is a certified Maryland Clean Marina facility, committed to water conservation efforts.
  • What other outdoor activities does the park offer?
    • Visitors can swim along the park’s Tangier Sound-side beaches, accessible only by boat.
    • Bird watching is available from an observation tower on the mainland, with checklists available at the Park Store.
    • Picnic areas feature tables, charcoal grills, playgrounds, and a volleyball court.
    • Larger groups can rent picnic pavilions.
  • What overnight accommodations are available at Jane’s Island State Park?
    • The park offers four modern log cabins, each sleeping up to six visitors.
    • All cabins include heat and air conditioning, gas log fireplaces, outdoor grills, and kitchen appliances.
    • Renters must bring their own bedding and towels.
    • Temperature-controlled camper cabins are available, sleeping up to four visitors.
    • The park has over 100 campsites, with half offering electrical hookups for vehicle and tent campers.
    • Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, lantern post, and camping pad.
    • Three communal bath houses provide showers, flush toilets, and coin-operated laundry machines.
  • What is the Daugherty Creek Conference Center?
    • The Daugherty Creek Conference Center is available for daily and overnight rentals.
    • It features conference rooms, a screened porch with an outdoor grill, and a full kitchen facility.
    • The center provides overnight accommodations for up to 16 visitors.

Plan Your Trip