General Resource

Merrill Center Public Beach Policy

Due to limited parking, public access requires a permit pass and access varies. Please call ahead to determine if passes are available.

Peak Visuals
Rolling surf, a sandy beach, and grassy area off the back of the Philip Merrill Environmental Center.

Updated: June 4, 2020
This policy may be changed at any time

Due to limited parking, public access requires a permit pass. Access may vary day to day. Calling ahead is encouraged to determine if passes are available. Passes are first come/first served basis.

Merrill Center property access for the public:

  • Controlled, limited public access.
  • Limited access available to public from 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. on Fridays.
  • All visitors must check in with the front desk for approved access and pass.
  • 10 passes/day available for property use—must give receptionist a valid driver’s license in exchange for a pass and pick it up when you return the pass. Must return the pass by 5:00 p.m. Monday-Thursday when the office closes or 12:00 p.m. on Fridays. Passes are per person. Not per car.
  • Visitors may only park in the upper parking lot (north side of parking lot).

Rules and guidelines:

  • All dogs must be on leashes.
  • Must clean up after your dog.
  • Visitors must not disturb any CBF activities, events or education field trips.
  • No bathrooms available.
  • No glass.
  • No alcohol.
  • No swimming.
  • All trash must be carried out.
  • The dock is off limits.
  • Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
  • CBF can close the property at any time due to scheduled events, education field trips in progress, or other CBF activities.

Use of the property for an event: (Any group over 5)

  • Must get pre-approval from CBF (Conference Center Coordinator).
  • Follow contract criteria for leasing facility.

Contact CBF at 410-268-8816.

Sign Up for Email Updates!

Be the first to know the latest Chesapeake Bay issues and how you can help in the fight to save the Bay and its rivers and streams.

Sign Up
Atlantic Blue Crab