Itinerary:
Explore Forested Shorelines at the Head of Still Pond Creek
Rich in history and scenery is the landing at Still Pond Creek. While the landing is very protected due to its location at the head of the creek, this tributary is still centrally located right off the main part of the Chesapeake Bay. For a lovely day of paddling, head three miles from the put-in site past forested shorelines to the mouth, which offers amazing views of the Bay.
Before Europeans settled the area, Still Pond Creek was also known to be a fishing camp for Native Americans. The creek was full of oysters which were harvested by local tribes. To this day you can see oyster middens around the creek, visible evidence of the area’s first inhabitants.
Things to Know
This landing is prone to very shallow water. The three mile paddle to the mouth of the creek yields excellent views of the upper Bay and is a good round trip to undertake. Scenery along the way includes forested shorelines and picturesque homes. Note that the mouth of Still Pond Creek is a popular power boat anchorage from mid-May through mid-October, and there are very strong tidal currents at the bottleneck marking the entrance to this tributary.
Navigational Hazards
This landing is fairly shallow and is best accessed by kayak or canoe.
The head of the creek is well-protected, but the mouth can be subject to very strong currents. Beginners should avoid the mouth of the creek for this reason, and for the fact that this is a popular summer anchorage for powerboats. Paddling near the mouth of the creek should be done with caution as these are large, open waters.
Water Safety
Remember: safe use of rivers and any designated trails, at any time, is your responsibility! Water trail maps are for informational and interpretive purposes only and are not meant for navigational purposes, nor do they take into account level of skills or ability required to navigate rivers. The National Park Service, Chesapeake Conservancy and/or the individual trail associations assume no responsibility or liability for any injury or loss resulting directly or indirectly from the use of water trails, maps or other printed or web-based materials. Learn more about water safety.
Marine Forecast
We STRONGLY suggested that you review the marine forecast ahead of heading out for a paddling trip. To review the forecast for this paddle trip, visit:
Emergency Information
Launch site address: Still Pond Creek Rd, Worton, MD 21678
Nearest hospitals: UM Shore Medical Center at Chestertown (100 Brown St, Chestertown, MD 21620; 410-778-3300) and Chester River Hospital Center (6602 Church Hill Rd #300, Chestertown, MD 21620; 410-778-3300).
Parking & Shuttles
This launch site is a modest gravel decline off the side of the road. As a result there is limited parking. About five vehicles can park along the side of the road adjacent to the landing.
Restrooms
There is no public restroom at this site.
Equipment
- ALWAYS wear a properly secured personal flotation device (PFD) when participating in paddlesport activities. Make sure that your PFD has a readily accessible safety whistle.
- Bring a paddle float and water pump for self rescue.
- A spray skirt is recommended for cold/foul weather.
- Wear appropriate protective clothing that shields you from the sun (sunglasses, sunblock, hat, and a long-sleeved shirt that can get wet) and is safe to swim in. Water shoes with closed toes will protect you from abrasive hazards at launch areas that can cut your feet.
- Bring water in bottles than can be secured to your craft. Bring more water than you think you’ll need and drink regularly throughout your journey.
Outfitters
- Eastern Shore Paddlers - (410) 708-9809
Camping & Amenities
This site has a sand/dirt surface from which to launch small vessels by hand.
There are no camping amenities at Still Pond Creek.
Trail History
American Indians inhabited areas along the Sassafras River for over 10,000 years before European settlement of the area. Indian settlements were typically located right on the water's edge, and often at the heads of creeks, springs, and other tributaries. Such locations allowed for a rich abundance of food: plants like arrow arum and pickerel weed accompanied shad, herring, striped bass, and perch passing by on their spawning runs. White-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and black bears were also hunted for food and for their furs. The richness of resources in the area provided for communities both large and small, and eventually attracted European attentions for the same reasons.
