2026 Annual Park Pass Update
The annual Park Pass fee has increased to $40 for residents and $50 for non-residents. The daily park entrance fee is now $8. This additional revenue will allow our staff to maintain exceptional service and ensure that our growing park system remains beautiful, well-maintained, and safe for everyone to enjoy.
To purchase or learn more, please visit our Annual Park Pass page.
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
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 |
| $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. | |
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