Want a park that has it all just a short drive from historic Annapolis? Quiet Waters Park has it: dog-friendly trails, lovely gardens, a beautiful river overlook plus a dog beach and a dog park. Just 5 miles from Annapolis, this park is a pleasure to visit, stretch your legs, and relax. These 340 acres welcome humans and canines alike. It’s situated where Harness Creek joins South River.
The Park’s Trails
There are several choices for walking here, and most of the trail is paved and flat (although there are a few slight elevations). My husband and I walked the full five miles of trails. The trail on the western side of the park meanders around trees and is peacefully quiet; the main sound you’ll hear is the chirping of birds high above in the trees. The trail on the eastern edge of the park is mostly a straight path with traffic noise from the nearby road.
Make sure you head down to the southernmost part of the park (noted with a binoculars icon on the map) where you’ll find a superb view of the South River. Here you’ll find several benches, two gazebos, and steps down to the water; this spot begs for you to just relax and take in the water view. How many boats will you see going by?!
Hours & Admission
- Normal operating hours are 7:00 am to dusk, 7 days a week.
- There is an entrance fee. When we visited, it was $6 per car.
- Leashed dogs are welcome. In fact, there’s a dog park, a beach for dogs, and a place to rinse off your pooch after taking a dip in the river. 🐶
Accessibility/Facilities
- Bring along water on warm days.
- There are picnic tables, benches, and gazebos throughout the park to rest and have a picnic.
- There’s a restroom at the visitor center and several in other parts of the park (see map for locations).
What You’ll Find at Quiet Waters Park
- over 5 miles of trail for hiking and biking
- a Reading and Butterfly Garden
- formal gardens
- reflecting pool (ice rink in the winter)
- playground
- dog park
- dog beach
- boat rental pier
- concert stage
- gazebos
- event space
- parking lots throughout the park
Park Map
Location
Quiet Waters Park, 600 Quiet Waters Park Road, Annapolis
Brief History
The land that is now Quiet Waters Park was first acquired by European settlers in the mid-17th century. Prior to that, there had been a small number of Native Americans living here. The property was owned by several different families over the centuries, and in 1987, Anne Arundel County acquired it — and the park was formed.
Nearby Attractions
Just 5 miles away is the historical town of Annapolis with an interesting history (once a colonial capitol and now the state capitol), sailing (lots of public cruises to choose from), and plenty of shops, restaurants, and pubs to entice visitors. Use this Annapolis Guide to help plan your visit.
Final Thoughts
My husband and I spent several hours walking through the park and especially enjoyed the waterfront area near the southern tip of the park. We relaxed here for a bit, enjoyed a picnic lunch we brought with us, and watched boats speed by. Quiet Waters Park has something for everyone: trails for exercise, magnificent water views, a reading and butterfly garden, a playground for kids, plenty of pavilions and gazebos, great facilities for dogs, and even an art gallery in the visitor center. It’s well-maintained and an absolute pleasure to visit while in Annapolis.
Comments
Feel free to leave a comment about other great places to visit in the Annapolis area. Your ideas could help those looking for fun things to do in the area. 🙂
