Natural swimming hole
Elms Beach Waterfront Park
Ocean cove · Maryland
About this swimming hole
A 476-acre St. Mary's County waterfront park established in 1978, with Chesapeake Bay views and swimming listed by the county as a headline activity. Small sandy coves, a reservable pavilion for up to 100 people, and an accessible playground sit inside a protected wildlife area with hiking trails. It is one of the county's three fee-based waterfront parks, alongside Myrtle Point and Snow Hill.
Good to know
| Water type | Ocean cove |
|---|---|
| Best season | June–August |
| Fees | Daily fee per vehicle $8 for St. Mary's County residents, $30 for non-residents (season passes available) |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | 8 a.m. to seasonal closing (8:30 p.m. in June–July, earlier in spring and fall) |
| Parking | On-site lot at 19350 Back Door Road; cash operation reported by visitors — bring payment for the gate |
| Amenities | Beach, Picnic pavilion, Picnic tables, Charcoal grills, Playground, Changing rooms, Portable restrooms, Trails |
| County | St. Mary's |
| Nearest town | Lexington Park |
| Safety notes | Swimming is allowed but there is no lifeguard on duty at any St. Mary's County waterfront park — park use is at your own risk. Dogs must stay on a six-foot leash except while in the water. |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Elms Beach Waterfront Park?
Yes — Elms Beach Waterfront Park is listed as a natural swimming spot in Maryland. Heads-up: Swimming is allowed but there is no lifeguard on duty at any St. Mary's County waterfront park — park use is at your own risk. Dogs must stay on a six-foot leash except while in the water.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Elms Beach Waterfront Park require reservations?
No reservations are required at Elms Beach Waterfront Park based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Elms Beach Waterfront Park?
Reported fee info: Daily fee per vehicle $8 for St. Mary's County residents, $30 for non-residents (season passes available). Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Elms Beach Waterfront Park?
The best season is typically June–August.