The 2026 Annual Park Pass is available to purchase!
The 2026 pass gives you access to all our regional parks from November 1, 2025, to December 31, 2026. To buy or learn more, visit our Annual Park Pass page.
Note: Starting January 1, 2026, annual park pass prices will increase to $40 for residents and $50 for non-residents, and the daily park entrance fee will increase to $8. The additional revenue will help our staff maintain exceptional service and ensure our growing park system remains beautiful, well-maintained, and safe for everyone to enjoy!
Park Highlights
-
Jug Bay Wetlands SanctuaryLearn more about research, volunteering, and education at Jug Bay
-
Cabins and CampingCabins and camping offer diverse ways to enjoy the great outdoors
-
Friends of Jug BayThe Friends of Jug Bay is a non-profit organization that provides volunteer support for research, education and conservation efforts
About the Park
Established in 1985, the Sanctuary protects unique tidal freshwater marshes, forested wetlands, upland and riparian forest, creeks, meadows, pine and sand barrens, and fields along the Patuxent River. Designated by the Audubon Maryland-DC as an Important Bird Area, and as one of three components of the Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Jug Bay provides a safe haven for a high diversity of plants and animals. With 19 miles of natural trails and marsh boardwalks, the Sanctuary offers ample opportunity for hiking, birding, camping, education, research, and volunteering.
General Information
General Park Rules
- All dogs must be on a leash at all times in the park.
- Alcohol, fires, grills, and balloons are not permitted anywhere in the park.
- All music must be kept to a minimum volume and amplified music is not permitted.
- Canopies/tents are not permitted on park property.
- 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- Open: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday (Closed on Sundays from December to February)
- Closed: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday
- Glendening Nature Preserve
5702 Plummer Lane, Lothian, MD 20711
Open 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., daily - Nature Preserve at Waysons Corner
5481 Southern Maryland Blvd, Lothian, MD 20711
Open dawn – dusk, daily - Patuxent Wetland Park
1426 Mt. Zion Marlboro Rd, Lothian, MD 20711
Open dawn – dusk, daily - Wootons Landing Park
4550 Sands Rd, Harwood, MD 20776
Open dawn – dusk, daily
| Admission |
| $6.00 per vehicle |
| Free entrance for active military, veterans, and their families (ID required) |
The annual pass can only be purchased at Jug Bay's visitor center. It cannot be purchased on Your Pass Now.
| Annual Pass Options | |
| Annual Pass - Anne Arundel County Resident: | $30.00 |
| Annual Pass - Non-Anne Arundel County Resident: | $40.00 |
| Senior Pass - 60 and up: | $40.00 |
| Learn more about the AACO Lifetime Senior Citizen permit here. | |
Recreation & Parks Events
Discover and Experience Anne Arundel County!
Discover regional and community parks, trails, natural areas, historic sites and water access. Find parks by name or by type of activity or parks near your home.