Important Safety Information: E-Bikes, E-Motos, and E-Scooters
To learn more about about Anne Arundel County Police Department's Operation C.A.R.E Safety Campaign (E-Bike, E-Moto, and E-Scooter), visit Operation C.A.R.E.
Deer Management Seasonal Closures - Wootons Landing Wetland Park
Wootons Landing Wetland Park will be closed for deer management on September 17, 22, and 30; October 6, 14, and 22; and November 5 and 12.
Deer Management Seasonal Closures - Glendening Nature Preserve
Glendening Nature Preserve will be closed for deer management on October 16, 21, 23, and 28; November 4, 13, and 18; and December 2, 11, 16, and 23.
Deer Management Seasonal Closures - Emory Waters Nature Preserve and River Farm Park
Emory Waters Nature Preserve and River Farm Park will be closed for deer management on Nov 5, 10, 16, 30 and Dec 8, 14, 22.
Stream & Shoreline Restoration Project Update:
Increased traffic on local roads due to large vehicles bringing materials to the site. We have included the two possible routes that may impact our local residents (view the map for details). You can review the presentation materials from our May 4, 2026 public meeting for more information on the project's scope, purpose, and timeline.
Note: The Chris Swarth Boardwalk at Glendening Nature Preserve (GNP) is closed until further notice.
Sanctuary Highlights
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Jug Bay Wetlands SanctuaryLearn more about research, volunteering, and education at Jug Bay
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Cabins and CampingCabins and camping offer diverse ways to enjoy the great outdoors
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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 Sanctuary
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 miles of natural trails and marsh boardwalks, the Sanctuary offers ample opportunity for hiking, birding, camping, education, research, and volunteering.
Jug Bay Properties
- The Sanctuary Proper - 1361 Wrighton Road, Lothian, MD 20711
- Glendening Nature Preserve - 5702 Plummer Land, Lothian, MD 20711
- Emory Waters Nature Preserve - 1361 Wrighton Road, Lothian, MD 20711
- Nature Preserve at Waysons Corner - 5481 Southern Maryland Blvd, Lothian, MD 20711
- Patuxent Wetlands Park - 1426 Mt. Zion Marlboro Rd, Lothian, MD 20711
- Wootons Landing Wetland Park - 4550 Sands Rd, Harwood, MD 20776
General Information
- 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 |
| $8.00 per vehicle |
| Free entrance for active military, veterans, and their families (ID required) |
The annual pass is available for purchase only at the Jug Bay Visitor Center. The annual pass is NOT available on Your Pass Now.
| Annual Pass Options | |
| Annual Pass - Anne Arundel County Resident: | $40.00 |
| Annual Pass - Non-Anne Arundel County Resident: | $50.00 |
| Senior Pass (Lifetime) - Age 60 and up: | $40.00 |
| Learn more about the AACO Lifetime Senior Citizen permit here. | |
Jug Bay Programs & Events
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