The scenic Marshyhope Creek, which winds through the quaint turn-
of-the-century town of Federalsburg, forms the western boundary of
this 3,300-acre area in Caroline County. The freshwater marshes of
the creek, the forests and forested wetlands set a visual canvas
for glimpses of the forest and wetland wildlife and flowers that
thrive here.
What To See
Brilliant scarlet tanagers flit among the branches. The
surprisingly large pileated woodpecker, with its red crest, hammers
on rotted logs in search of insects. Bluebirds nest in tree
cavities and fly among field grasses looking for insects. White-
tailed deer are often seen on the forest edges or in the
agricultural fields, which are cultivated by wildlife biologists to
provide food for wildlife. A visitor may catch a glimpse of the
elusive gray fox or hear the springtime gobble of a wild turkey.
Hawks and owls may be seen all year. Migration periods in the
spring and fall are the best times to see songbirds. The Marshyhope
is home to beavers, often seen working on their dams or winter food
stores.
What To Do
Hunters will enjoy a day afield, pursuing white-tailed deer,
turkey, cottontail rabbits, woodcock and squirrels. Roads and
trails will promise a day's adventure and exploration for hikers
and all-terrain bicyclists. Check out a map of the area.
From the Bay Bridge, take U.S. Route 50 east to Wye Mills. Take 404 to MD 313 and follow south to Federalsburg. Take MD 315 east into Federalsburg. Take Central Avenue east across Marshyhope Creek, which becomes Houston Branch Road (MD 306). For additional information, contact the LeCompte Wildlife Office at (410) 376- 3236.
Funding for Maryland's State and local parks and conservation areas is provided through The Department of Natural Resources' Program Open Space. Established in 1969, Program Open Space symbolizes Maryland's long term commitment to conserving natural resources while providing exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities.
Photograph By: Chuck Prahl