Natural swimming hole
North Point State Park — Chesapeake Bay Wading Beach
Ocean cove · Maryland
About this swimming hole
A 1,300-acre state park on the Chesapeake Bay at the site of the former Bay Shore Amusement Park, where DNR maintains an unguarded waterfront open to waders and swimmers. The small sandy beach and family-oriented wading area sit near the restored trolley station, fountain, and the 1,000-foot Crystal Pier. More than half the park is the protected Black Marsh Wildlands, so a swim pairs easily with marsh and woodland trails.
Good to know
| Water type | Ocean cove |
|---|---|
| Depth | Shallow wading shoreline; depth increases gradually offshore |
| Best season | June–August |
| Fees | State park day-use service charge per vehicle (about $3 resident / $5 nonresident on summer weekdays; rates vary) |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | 8 a.m. to sunset |
| Parking | Park lots at 8400 North Point Road near the visitor center and waterfront; the park can reach capacity on summer weekends |
| Amenities | Fishing piers, Picnic areas, Trails, Restrooms, Visitor center |
| County | Baltimore |
| Nearest town | Edgemere |
| Safety notes | No lifeguards — DNR states waders and swimmers enter at their own risk and recommends water shoes. Check Maryland Healthy Beaches for bacteria advisories, especially after heavy rain; jellyfish possible in late summer. |
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 North Point State Park — Chesapeake Bay Wading Beach?
Yes — North Point State Park — Chesapeake Bay Wading Beach is listed as a natural swimming spot in Maryland. Heads-up: No lifeguards — DNR states waders and swimmers enter at their own risk and recommends water shoes. Check Maryland Healthy Beaches for bacteria advisories, especially after heavy rain; jellyfish possible in late summer.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does North Point State Park — Chesapeake Bay Wading Beach require reservations?
No reservations are required at North Point State Park — Chesapeake Bay Wading Beach based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit North Point State Park — Chesapeake Bay Wading Beach?
Reported fee info: State park day-use service charge per vehicle (about $3 resident / $5 nonresident on summer weekdays; rates vary). Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit North Point State Park — Chesapeake Bay Wading Beach?
The best season is typically June–August.