Welcome to Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary

Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary

The Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary consists of more than 1400 acres of tidal freshwater wetlands, forests, meadows and fields along the Patuxent River. The sanctuary is located in southern Anne Arundel County, just 20 miles from both Washington D.C. and Annapolis. The wetlands, with large stands of aquatic plants, are home to many birds, fish, reptiles, and mammals. The Sanctuary is also one of the estuarine sites within the Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve System, Maryland -- a research and education program administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The Sanctuary is operated by the Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation and Parks. The Sanctuary is recognized as a Nationally Important Bird Area by the American Bird Conservancy and the National Audubon Society. The Sanctuary also serves as a research field station for researchers and university students. The staff provides equipment, logistical assistance, and a wealth of accumulated knowledge for researchers.

The area is also steeped in history stretching back through colonial times. Three primary goals of the Sanctuary....

Visitors are welcome! There are more than 12 miles of trails with ample opportunities for solitude and enjoyment of nature. Come get to know your local Sanctuary.

Visiting the Sanctuary Policies, entrance fees...Reservations required:
The Wetlands Center and Jug Bay area are open to the Public on Wed and Sat 9am-5pm (Sunday hours start on July 13). The Glendening Preserve is open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, closed Sundays and Holidays.
Notice about hiking during deer hunting season
Directions to the Sanctuary
Friends of Jug Bay provide critical funds, grants and other support for our research and educational programs. FOJB members receive free entrance into the Sanctuary and other benefits.
Employment Opportunities

Education Program

Web-based Calendar
Things to Do Public Education Programs, Special Events... updated on Nov 27, 2007
Registration form for Public Programs--including Summer Camp (but not for schools, groups or scouts)
Programs for Schools Most of our spring dates have been filled during Priority Registration. Some dates are available. Click here for the application
Programs for High School classes
Summer camp schedule is now available. Please note that the camp for 5th-6th Grade students (Reptiles and Amphibians) is full.
Programs for Home School Families updated on Januray 3, 2008
Programs for Scouts
Canoeing at Jug Bay

Research Program

Research Program Volunteers and staff conduct ecological studies on turtles, fish, birds, salamanders...
Jug Bay Publications, Reports, and Articles

Volunteer Program

Volunteer Activities Volunteer opportunities, description of projects workshops...
Volunteer Application
Upcoming Volunteer Activities Winter 2007-2008 (pdf)
Volunteer Newsletter Spring 2008 (pdf)
On June 12, 2007 140 NOAA employees helped in a variety of restoration and ecological research studies at Jug Bay. Check out the NOAA Restoration Day Website for photos.