By DullesMoms, May 2023
On a beach along the Chesapeake Bay in Southern Maryland, Calvert Cliffs State Park is more than a picturesque destination — it boasts a unique kind of treasure hunting!
The rocks that make up the Calvert Cliffs, about 24 miles of them, are fossil-bearing, part of a large collection of fossiliferous exposures. Therefore, one of the most celebrated features of this State Park is the ability to find a variety of ancient Miocene-era fossils along the beach shores that were once embedded in the rock.
Professionals and amateurs alike have found and identified more than 600 types of fossilized plants and animals, including marine species like whales, seals, and sea turtles. Unique finds also include mastodons, woolly rhinos, and camels. The cliffs showcase a rich diversity of marine life, featuring numerous shark and ray species.
Notably, a 9-year-old Maryland girl discovered a 5-inch tooth from a megalodon — a shark from the Miocene Epoch — the size of a Greyhound bus! Found on Christmas Day, this big find joins her collection of more than 400 fossilized shark teeth!
Calvert Cliffs State Park also has 13 miles of marked foot trails open to the public. While on them, you might see one of the park’s 160 bird species, including the bald eagle! On these trails and throughout the park, you’ll also find interpretive panels that give visitors a glimpse into the region’s storied past — the area around the cliffs has witnessed significant naval events, especially during the War of 1812.
If this sounds like a great day, pack your hiking boots, binoculars, and fossil buckets — an adventure awaits!
Details:
Website
Location:
Calvert Cliffs State Park • Lusby, MD (Map)
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