Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary

Battle Creek Nature Center is Closed

Trails are Open


The nature center remain closed until further notice due to damage from the fire on 11/5/2022.

Due to damage from the fire, phone calls are being directed to Flag Ponds Nature Park. Call 410-535-5327 or 410-586-1477 and leave a message. A staff member will return your call as soon as possible.


Boardwalk trail through the Cypress SwampPark Hours:

Trails close 30 minutes before park closes. 

NOTICE: No walk ins allowed when park gates are closed.  No pets allowed. 

Monday-Friday: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Sunday: 1-6  p.m.

For Information Call: 410-535-5327
Please read our rules and regulations.
For HOLIDAY HOURS see Park Hours page

CAUTION: Enter the address 2880 Grays Road, Prince Frederick into your GPS. Otherwise you'll end up in the middle of the swamp or on private property! 

Download our Seasonal Trail Maps


Rare Habitats

At the northernmost limits in the United States for the natural range of bald cypress trees, this 100-acre nature sanctuary recalls a time some 100,000 years ago when cypress swamps were common over large parts of the region and now-extinct animals like mammoths roamed the landscape.

Today, thanks to The Nature Conservancy, which acquired the property in 1957, the Sanctuary’s primeval beauty is a protected home to many plants and animals.

Sanctuary and Solitude

As you walk on the quarter-mile boardwalk trail, listen to nature’s harmony of calling frogs and songbirds. With quiet patience and sharp eyes you may even catch a glimpse of some of the abundant life supported by this wetland.

Champion Bald CypressNature Education

Inside the nature center, you can explore more closely the mysteries of the swamp through exhibits that focus on the natural and cultural heritage of the area.

Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary makes an ideal day trip for the young and old alike. The Calvert County Natural Resources Division provides a variety of educational programs and outdoor activities throughout the year

Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary is a partnership between Calvert County Natural Resources Division and The Nature Conservancy. The Sanctuary is a part of the Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network. It was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1965.

 the Nature ConservancyNature Conservancy logo National Natural Landmark Logo Opens in new window


Entrance Fees

None