4 Reasons to Get Out and Explore Cedarville State Forest

September 07, 2017 · 3 min read

Cedarville State Forest is a unique historical forest in the state of Maryland. The location of this state-protected park was originally used by the Piscataway, a Native American tribe from the Chesapeake Bay area, because of the land's comfortable climate and abundant wildlife. The entire forest spans over 20 miles, eventually running into the Wicomico River. Today, the forest is primarily used as a camping site offering a variety of fun and exciting outdoor activities. While there are a lot of activities you can do at Cedarville State Forest, there are at least four activities you want to try out first. If you want to experience the best of the outdoors in Maryland, make sure the four activities mentioned here get on your vacation's to-do list.

Fishing

Fishing in Cedarville State Forest has been described as one of the best fishing experiences in the entire state of Maryland. You will need a fishing license, but you will find the effort is well worth it.The four-acre fishing pond in this park has plenty of fish to offer including sunfish, bass, bluegill, and catfish. Fishing is restricted to land only.

Camping

There are many designated camping areas throughout Cedarville State Forest. These campsites, available from April until October, are located in the perfect places to enjoy a relaxing picnic meal surrounded by nature. The park has many picnic areas and pavilions equipped with fireplaces for chillier nights. The campground is also pet-friendly, including special equestrian camping locations. You can also choose a lakefront campground for daily swimming in the cool waters.

Hiking and Biking

With a 19.5 mile long trail to explore, you will never run out of hiking or biking opportunities. Because the Maryland Department of Natural Resources owns the entire 2,631 acres of land, you will find many undeveloped areas to explore, should you decide to veer off of the trail. Staying on the trail, however, will still give you plenty to look at with frequent wildlife sightings. The mile-wide Cedarville swamp attracts many forms of wildlife, so you never know what you might spot along your hike.

Horseback Riding

With over 19 miles of trails to see, you might find it difficult to cover the land by foot. You can bring your horse or rent one for the day and travel one of the equestrian-friendly trails. Here, you will find beautiful views with a ton of history. One of those sights are the loblolly pine plantations, pine trees that were planted in the 1930's by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Other sights include the historical moonshine trails and designated hunting areas. You might even see some of the attempted drainage ditches that were created during the colonial times in an attempt to drain the swamps for living purposes. The Brandywine Trails in the park have been voted some of the best trails in the country, partly because of the fantastic scenery. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Cedarville State Forest Park offers everything that you could ever ask for. The park is ideal for fishermen, campers, hikers, and horseback riders. Not sure where to start? Head to the park, jump on a trail, and see where it takes you. You will be more than impressed with the opportunities that await you.

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Aug 10, 2017 in Near Waldorf

Must See Museums In and Around Waldorf Maryland

Are you planning a trip to your local Waldorf Chevrolet-Cadillac dealership anytime soon? If so, then why not plan to take in some of the museums that are in the area? Here are some of the must-see museums around Waldorf, Maryland. more The Calvert Marine Museum The Calvert Marine Museum is a must-see in the Waldorf area, especially if you have a genuine love of the water. There are a number of fascinating categories of discovery at this museum. These include the opportunity to study estuarine biology, marshes, paleontology of the sea, and historic boats. There are numerous galleries in the museum, each exposing this rich history. The museum also hosts day camps, family fun events, and musical performances. You can also stay tuned to the regularly changing special exhibits, such as the 2017 show, " Sharkabet: A Sea of Sharks from A to Z." Entry to the museum is $9 for adults, $7 for seniors, AAA members and service members, and $4 for children ages 5 to 12. Children under 5 can get in for free. Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum If you're in the area, don't miss a journey to the Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum. The site is a combination of museum and nature area, with a beautiful space that stretches for 560 acres. The grounds offer plenty of room for a picnic, so be prepared by bringing along a packed lunch. There are also trails available for those craving some exercise. Once you've finished lunch, you can visit the historic area, which features archaeological sites that date back 9,000 years. The visitors' center of the museum houses extraordinary exhibits, educational programs, as well as the Maryland Archaeological Conservation Laboratory and its 8 million artifacts. An imitation Aboriginal American village and true-to-life archaeology programs bring history to life at the Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum. There is no cost to enter the Visitor Center, which includes the archaeology exhibitions, the L. Goldstein Gallery, the Exhibit Barn, and more. You can also plan ahead to join in on one of the family-friendly free tours. St. Clement's Island Museum Why not take a short road trip to the St. Clement's Island Museum on a warm day? There, you'll find Maryland's earliest Colonial history dating back to 1634, as well as learning about the early days of the people who lived by the Potomac River. To understand this history, this museum offers a 13-minute film about early Colonialism in the area, as well as a memorial to the colonists. A history of the local watermen is included, as is education about the neighboring lighthouse. Tours are available by request. For information about visits, including fees and hours, you can contact the museum at (301) 769-2222. The next time you plan to visit the Waldorf Chevrolet-Cadillac dealer, why not bring along your children for a fun-filled day of historical education? From exploring the legendary waterways to learning about far-reaching human history, there are a great many places to explore in the vicinity.

Jul 06, 2017 in Near Waldorf

3 Spots in Waldorf for Great Comfort Food

Comfort food can vary between people, especially when they come from different cultures and upbringings. When you're in the mood for something comforting, check out these spots in the Waldorf, Maryland, area that serve up great comfort food that suits your palate. more Silver Skewers If Mediterranean food gives you comfort, pay a visit to Silver Skewers. This restaurant is located on Old Washington Road in Waldorf and has an extensive menu with something for everyone. It's a favorite among locals with high reviews for great flavors and a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere. The classic menu items include kabobs, served with chicken, salmon, shrimp, rib eye, lamb, or filet mignon. You can also choose the house specialty, which is a kabob made with lean ground beef and special seasonings, or skip the meat and order a veggie kabob. The entrees are all available in combinations with several types of meat as well. Pair your meal with a refreshing glass of Persian iced tea, brewed with various spices and a hint of mint. Make sure to save room for dessert, since the Persian baklava is one of the favorites as well. This flaky pastry is stuffed with pistachios, walnuts, and cinnamon, oven baked, and topped with a sweet honey glaze. The homemade ice cream, available in cinnamon, chocolate, and strawberry flavors, is also a hit. Babes Boys Taverns If your idea of comfort food involves a burger and fries, head to Babes Boys Tavern. It's also on Old Washington Road and the menu includes classic American fare. This spot is best for adults, so leave the kids at home and enjoy a night out. Choose from a variety of options, such as a cheesesteak wrap served with mushrooms, onions, and hot deli relish, or a fried tilapia sandwich, topped with cheese and paired with fries. The tavern has plenty of beers on tap along with a full cocktail menu. It's also open late, making it a great spot to grab a midnight comfort snack. Crown Fried Chicken & Waffle House For classic Southern comfort food, visit Crown Fried Chicken & Waffle House. It's on Leonardtown Road in Waldorf, and the menu includes a nice variety of options. This location offers counter service for a laid-back atmosphere, and the famous fried chicken and waffles is the top menu option. A fresh, crispy waffle is topped with seasoned and fried chicken, then drizzled with maple syrup to combine the salty and sweet flavors. You can also get side dishes including macaroni and cheese, salad, and more, along with chicken wings and family meals. With a variety of places to get all kinds of comfort food in the Waldorf area, it's easy to find a spot that serves up what you want. Many people associate certain food items with positive experiences in their lives, so finding a favorite comfort food location can be very beneficial. When the craving strikes for your favorite entrees and sides, visit one of these locations to satisfy your need for comforting menu options.

Jun 22, 2017 in Near Waldorf

The Best Places for Ice Cream Around Waldorf, MD

With warm summer days and nights right around the corner, plenty of people start thinking about indulging in some ice cream to help cool down. When your sweet tooth has a craving for this icy treat, head to one of these best places for ice cream around Waldorf, Maryland. more Bruster's Real Ice Cream Situated in the heart of Waldorf, Bruster's Real Ice Cream makes its extensive selection of ice cream fresh on-site every day. When you're constructing your perfect ice cream cone, consider starting with the waffle cone. Bruster's bakes this crunchy treat right in the store, so it's always fresh. You'll also find other classic desserts like sundaes, banana splits, milkshakes, Bruster's Blasts, ice cream cakes, and ice cream pies. The Dairy Godmother Head up to Alexandria, Virginia, to find The Dairy Godmother. This retro-style ice cream parlor is famous for its unusual flavors, including caramel Heath bar, coconut, carrot cake, Boston cream pie, and sweet potato pecan. For those who are vegan or have a sensitivity or allergy to eggs or dairy, The Dairy Godmother also serves tasty sorbets in fresh flavors like lemon lavender, passion fruit, pear with vanilla, and more. For your four-legged family member, there are also Puppy Pops in pumpkin or banana. sweetFrog Premium Frozen Yogurt If you're looking for some of the tastiest frozen yogurt around, head to sweetFrog Premium Frozen Yogurt in Waldorf. Here you create your own unique combination of soft-serve frozen yogurt, and then finish it off with the toppings of your choice. The frozen yogurt flavors include cake batter, strawberry lemonade, key lime, chocolate, and more. Check out the toppings bar and fruits, nuts, hot fudge, chocolates, candies, waffle pieces, pound cake, and marshmallows are just some of the treats you'll find. The Creamery Stroll along the streets of charming Old Town in Alexandria, and you'll come across The Creamery. For over 25 years locals and visitors have flocked to this quaint ice cream parlor for homemade ice cream, dairy-free sorbet, no-sugar-added ice cream, and real frozen custard. You'll find traditional ice cream flavors such as chocolate chip cookie dough and strawberry, plus unique flavors like orange chocolate chip and coffee Oreo. The Creamery also bakes fresh cobblers and cookies to sell every day. Pop's Old Fashioned Ice Cream Also in the Old Town neighborhood of Alexandria, you'll find Pop's Old Fashioned Ice Cream. Fashioned after the recipes left behind by Ray "Pop" Giovanni, who served First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt her favorite ice cream when she was in the White House, this ice cream parlor has over 63 delicious flavors. You can get one, two, or three scoops served in a cup, sugar cone, waffle cone, or cake cone. Popular flavors include salted caramel, Kahlua chocolate chip, and peanut butter chocolate pretzel. You'll also find sundaes, lactose-free soft serve, and fresh pies. No matter what kind of ice cream you're in the mood for, you're sure to find the perfect sweet treat when you visit one of these top places for ice cream around Waldorf.