By Jill Mulford
STEVENSVILLE POCKET PARK is located right in the middle of old town of Stevensville and a perfect respite after browsing the antique shops or bakery. Located adjacent to Rustico Restaurant, it features a wisteriacovered gazebo and bench and has been the setting in June for “Art in the Park.” With the Kent Island Federation of Arts only a short walk away, it’s the perfect spot, especially when the wisteria is blooming.
If you continue out of Stevensville and into the Chesapeake Bay Business Park, you will find the entrance to the TERRAPIN NATURE CENTER at 191 Log Canoe Circle. This 276 acre park is also easily accessible from the Cross Island Trail if you are biking or walking. It’s a beautiful, wooded park with hiking paths along the marsh, through wildflower fields, around lakes, and through the woods. The beach, right on the edge of the Bay, is perfect for sitting, wading, thinking, or swimming. There is even a small boardwalk leading to a gazebo for access to watch the glorious sunset view with a Bay Bridge backdrop. As you are turning around to leave the park at sunset, you’ll see the reflections in the ponds and over the fields. Keep your eyes open for all the different birds and flowers as you come here season after season.
As you make your way south on Route 8, you will pass the Blue Heron Golf Course on your right and arrive at the BLUE HERON NATURE PRESERVE at 3510 Romancoke Road. The park is a little harder to spot than the others mentioned but you’ll find a sign with the address at its entrance. There are picnic tables as you arrive and then equestrian trails along the preserve itself leading to Price Creek. The 300 acre park was formerly known as Price Creek Environmental Center, so you and your horse may it know from that name. This nature preserve definitely lets us know that Kent Island and Queen’s Anne’s County have something for everyone!
Finally, you will have to back track to this beautiful oasis on Kent Island. Head to the Chesapeake Bay Heritage Center at 425 Piney Creek Road, circle behind it and walk the 530 foot boardwalk over the marsh and out to the beach. There you will be in FERRY POINT PARK. You might relax on the beach, walk through the wooded area, or sit on a bench to observe the blue herons, osprey, eagles, and fish. You might even love the feel of the sand between your toes as you look for sea glass. There are 41 acres for you to enjoy after your one mile hike or bike ride out to the water. This spot has stunning views bordering the Chester River, Kent Narrows, and Piney Creek. Try it at sunrise to see nature’s remarkable display!