Are you looking for a place to experience the tranquility of gazing at water through lush vegetation or walking along a sandy beach with vistas of homes far above the waterfront? Or, how about just a great spot for fishing?
Jonas and Anne Catharine Green Park is a hidden gem of the Annapolis area. Known as Jonas Green, this small park is located on the Severn River and features picnic areas, fishing, and a beach for free cartop boat launching. Additionally, there are incredible views in every direction. The expansive landscape of the Naval Academy across the river is breathtaking.
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The 6-acre tract is named for Jonas and Anne Catharine Green, colonial-era Annapolis residents. He was Maryland’s first public printer as the publisher of the Maryland Gazette. When he died in 1767, his wife, Anne took over the job, a unique position for a woman in those days.
Access to the park is a little tricky. Whether you are coming north or south on Rt. 450, turn on Rt. 648 (Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard), make an immediate right under the Naval Academy Bridge and continue straight to the entrance.
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The property is situated at the southern terminus of the Baltimore & Annapolis Trail. Previously under State ownership, Jonas Green was turned over to Anne Arundel County in 2009 and is operated by the Department of Recreation and Parks. The headquarters for the County’s entire trail system is located there.
Fishing is a favorite reason for visitors to come to Jonas Green. Even though the park closes at dusk, fishing on the pier is allowed 24/7. The pier is actually a portion of the abandoned roadbed, the final remains of the old bridge. The pier is popular, but some prefer to fish from the rocks that border parts of the property. I spoke with a young woman who was happy to have time to fish that afternoon on her day off from work. She usually catches rockfish, catfish, and white perch, as well as others. Crabbing is also permitted, but check the DNR website for licensing.
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There’s a very peaceful and relaxing feeling to the ambiance of the park. It’s often the destination of regulars who bring lunch to eat at one of the picnic tables, benches, or even stay in their car and enjoy views up and down the Severn River. For families and other small groups, it’s their special place to treasure the open space and natural beauty of the area. There’s ample parking and restrooms are available, but there are no pavilions. Walking paths and beach areas are fun to explore while appreciating the outdoors.
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The friendly Visitors Center is open daily from 8:00 am-4:00 pm. There are brochures about Annapolis and other information on hand, including Explore, a seasonal Recreation and Parks publication that advertises the many programs, activities, and special events for all ages offered by each of the County parks.
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For those with canoes, kayaks, standup paddle boards, and windsurfing boards, the sandy beach provides a rare (for this area) free launching site. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, there’s a contractor onsite on weekends and holidays renting kayaks, SUPs, and bikes by the hour or the day. The close proximity to the start of B&A Trail is another benefit of the park. Jonas Green has rules and regulations posted for safety. Pets are welcome, but must be leashed.
Jonas Green Park 2001 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd. Annapolis, MD 21401 (410) - 222 - 6141