Quiet Waters Park
A 340-acre oasis with 6 miles of paved trails, a dog beach, playground, gardens, and art exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical views over the river
Quiet Waters Park
Best Time
Magical views over the river
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 340-acre oasis with 6 miles of paved trails, a dog beach, playground, gardens, and art exhibits.
"This park truly lives up to its name, offering a calm and serene atmosphere perfect for unwinding."
Bring your pup's gear! :dog:
The dog beach is a highlight, but ensure your dog has good recall. Life jackets are recommended for weaker swimmers.
Pack a picnic basket! :sandwich:
Plenty of green space and grills make for perfect picnics. Grab food from local spots like Annapolis Gyro.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dog Beach
South River waterfront
Let your furry friends splash and play off-leash in the South River. A fenced area ensures safety, but supervise closely!
Quiet Cove Playground
Near the visitor center
A brand new, pirate ship-themed playground with a rubber surface, offering swings for all abilities. Kids will love it!
South River Overlook
Along the paved trails
Breathtaking views of the South River, especially stunning at sunset. Perfect for a peaceful moment or a romantic stroll.
Paved Trails
Throughout the park
Six miles of well-maintained paved trails perfect for walking, biking, or a leisurely stroll with beautiful scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Park Entry & Hours
Best for Pups & Picnics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring your pup's gear! :dog:
The dog beach is a highlight, but ensure your dog has good recall. Life jackets are recommended for weaker swimmers.
Pack a picnic basket! :sandwich:
Plenty of green space and grills make for perfect picnics. Grab food from local spots like Annapolis Gyro.
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
With 6 miles of paved trails, you'll want comfortable footwear for walking or biking.
Check for events! :calendar:
The park hosts various events, from fitness classes to festivals. 
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring your pup's gear! :dog:
The dog beach is a highlight, but ensure your dog has good recall. Life jackets are recommended for weaker swimmers.
Pack a picnic basket! :sandwich:
Plenty of green space and grills make for perfect picnics. Grab food from local spots like Annapolis Gyro.
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
With 6 miles of paved trails, you'll want comfortable footwear for walking or biking.
Check for events! :calendar:
The park hosts various events, from fitness classes to festivals.
Beware of bees! :bee:
Some beehives are tucked away off the trails, so be mindful when exploring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Quiet Waters Park for its serene atmosphere and beautiful waterfront views, especially at sunset. It's a highly recommended spot for dog owners due to its dedicated beach and trails, and families enjoy the new playground. The park is well-maintained with convenient amenities.
"Quiet Waters Park truly lives up to its name. The atmosphere was calm and serene, making it the perfect spot to unwind. The South River overlook was absolutely breathtaking at sunset — watching the sun dip into the horizon while listening to gentle waves crashing against the shore felt magical.
On the day of our visit, the park was filled with happy dogs, and amazingly not one of them barked — it added to the peaceful vibe. I also appreciated how thoughtfully the park is laid out, with restrooms conveniently located throughout.
If you’re looking for a place to recharge, enjoy nature, and take in a stunning sunset, this park is a hidden gem. We’ll definitely be coming back."
Lawkaanat
"One could spend a whole day in this park. It’s $6 per vehicle. It closes at 8pm. You can bring your own grill and have a bbq. There is plenty of green to play soccer or volleyball. There is a place that rents boats and kayaks. Lots of trails for biking or walking. Plus, it is gorgeous! Lots of flowers!! Very well maintained!"
Rod Aloud
"Really enjoyed our time here! We had a nice picnic and walked through a few of the trails to get to a gorgeous view overlooking the bay. Watch out for the beehives they have tucked away off one of the trails!"
Brad K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Quiet Waters Park is located at 600 Quiet Waters Park Rd, Annapolis, MD 21403. It's easily accessible by car and is about an hour from Washington, D.C.
Yes, there is parking available throughout the park. You can find parking lots near the main attractions and trails.
Public transportation options to Quiet Waters Park are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to access the park.
From Annapolis, take Forest Drive to Quiet Waters Park Road. The park entrance will be on your right.
The park features 6 miles of paved trails, making it generally accessible for those with mobility challenges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is $6 per vehicle. Annual passes are available for Anne Arundel County residents ($30) and non-residents ($40). Military personnel may receive free entry.
The park is open daily from 7 am to dusk. Specific closing times may vary seasonally, so it's advisable to check ahead.
Tickets are typically purchased at the park entrance upon arrival. There is no online pre-purchase option mentioned.
Military personnel often receive free entry. Annual passes offer cost savings for frequent visitors.
The park is generally open daily, including holidays, from 7 am to dusk. It's always a good idea to confirm holiday hours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking and biking on paved trails, visit the dog beach, explore the Quiet Cove Playground, have picnics, and rent boats or kayaks. There are also art exhibits in the visitor center.
Yes, it's very dog-friendly! There's a dedicated off-leash dog beach and plenty of trails where dogs are welcome.
Absolutely! The park features the new, pirate ship-themed Quiet Cove Playground, which is a big hit with kids.
Yes, there is a place within the park that rents boats and kayaks, offering a great way to enjoy the water.
The South River overlook, especially at sunset, offers breathtaking views. The formal gardens and the waterfront areas are also very picturesque.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly inside the park. However, you can bring your own food for picnics or grab takeout from nearby Annapolis eateries like Annapolis Gyro.
Yes, you can bring your own grill and have a BBQ. There is plenty of green space available for this.
Yes, the park has numerous picnic tables scattered throughout, making it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors.
Annapolis offers a wide variety of dining options. For a quick and tasty meal, consider Annapolis Gyro.
Information regarding alcohol consumption in the park is not explicitly stated in the provided content. It's best to check park regulations or assume it's not permitted unless otherwise indicated.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset at the South River overlook is highly recommended for stunning golden hour shots. Early mornings also offer soft light and fewer crowds.
The South River overlook, the dog beach with happy pups, the new pirate ship playground, and the well-maintained formal gardens are all great for photos. +1
No specific restrictions on personal photography have been mentioned. However, commercial photography may require permits.
A versatile lens for landscapes and portraits would be ideal. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, and a telephoto can be useful for wildlife.
Absolutely! The dog beach is a fantastic place to capture candid shots of your dog enjoying the water and playing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many tables or utilize the grills. The 6 miles of paved trails are perfect for strollers or little legs on bikes, and the park's open spaces are great for games. Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. The dog beach can also be entertaining for kids to watch, though supervision is key.
+1🐶 Dog Owners
+2 The park also offers numerous dog-friendly trails for walks and exploration. Remember to bring water for your pets and consider a life jacket for dogs who aren't strong swimmers. While the dog beach is fenced, always keep an eye on your dog to ensure their safety and recall. The park's serene atmosphere means even with many dogs, it remains peaceful.
🚶♀️ Active Individuals & Fitness Enthusiasts
You can enjoy a brisk morning jog or a leisurely bike ride while taking in the scenic waterfront views. Some visitors have noted park fitness classes, suggesting opportunities for group workouts.
The open green spaces also lend themselves to activities like yoga or frisbee. The park's well-maintained paths and beautiful surroundings provide a motivating environment for your fitness routine.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Waterfront
The park's layout is thoughtfully designed, with gazebos and benches strategically placed for rest and appreciation of the surroundings. Whether you're seeking a brisk workout or a leisurely stroll, the extensive trail system ensures you can spend hours exploring the natural beauty of the park. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the serene atmosphere that gives the park its name, especially during quieter times of the day.
For those interested in water activities, the park offers boat launch facilities and rentals, allowing visitors to get out on the South River. This provides a different perspective of the park and its surroundings. Remember to check rental availability and hours of operation if this is part of your plan.
A Paradise for Pups: The Dog Beach
+1Travelers rave about the positive experience at the dog beach, noting the gorgeous views and the generally friendly atmosphere among both dogs and their owners. It's a place where dogs can truly be dogs, splashing in the water and enjoying the freedom of an open space. Bringing a life jacket for dogs who aren't strong swimmers is a smart precaution, as recommended by some visitors.
Beyond the beach, the park's trails are also dog-friendly, allowing your furry friends to join you on walks and explorations throughout the 340 acres. This makes Quiet Waters Park an ideal destination for a day out with your entire family, including your four-legged members.
Family Fun at Quiet Cove Playground
The playground is a significant draw for families, providing a safe and engaging environment for kids to burn off energy. Its location within the park makes it easily accessible, allowing for a seamless transition from exploring trails to enjoying playtime. Parents often appreciate the thoughtful design and the variety of play structures available.
Combined with the park's other amenities like picnic areas and open green spaces, the Quiet Cove Playground makes Quiet Waters Park an excellent destination for a family day out. It offers a perfect blend of active play and natural exploration for visitors of all ages.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit