State Parks and National Parks

Every autumn, thousands of Canada geese arrive at Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary in search of refuge on its wetlands and surrounding woodlands.

The tidal creeks, marshes, woodlands and agricultural land that border the Patuxent River provide essential food, water and shelter to geese, other migratory birds and mammals.

Conservationist Edgar Merkle helped create this sanctuary. In an effort to reintroduce Canada geese to Maryland’s western shore, he made his 400-acre farm a wildlife refuge.

The sanctuary, off Route 301 in southern Prince George's County, is within 30 miles of Annapolis, 45 miles of Baltimore and 20 miles of Washington D.C.

There are four trails that cross fairly flat terrain. These trails vary in diffulty from easy to easy-moderate.

Scheduled interpretive nature programs, special weekend programs and exhibits at the visitor center focus primarily on the Canada goose.

All special programs require advance reservations.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of Maryland Department of Natural Resources, http://www.dnr.maryland.gov.