The community of Ocean Pines is not necessarily known for being a hub of outdoor recreation along Maryland’s Coast, but nestled within this large neighborhood are miles of walking trails and mapped water trails. These amenities are open for anyone to visit, whether you’re a resident or just a visitor passing through the area. Despite its nearly 8,000 homes, Ocean Pines is filled with opportunities for wildlife observation, exercise, fresh air, and nature immersion, without venturing far from civilization.
Beginning at the North Gate and working our way south, come along on a virtual tour of the many ways to get outside within this bustling community.
White Horse Park
White Horse Park is well known for its modern playground, summer concert series, farmer’s market, and all kinds of seasonal events, but tucked towards the back of the park is a nature trail that’s over a half mile long. The trail loops from behind the skate park, down through the woods, across the boat ramp parking lot, and stops at a waterfront bench to take a break and enjoy views of the St. Martins River. It then meanders back by the boat ramp and back up towards the playground.
White Horse Park also welcomes paddlers that want easy access to the St. Martins River. The boat ramp at the end of Beauchamp Road is a great spot to access some of Ocean Pines’ water trails, which are conveniently mapped on their website. Paddle down the canal and turn right to head towards the Swim & Racquet Club area, or turn left upstream, into the upper reaches of Shingle Landing Prong. If you paddle far enough up the creek, you’ll even reach some bald cypress trees, making you feel as if you’ve traveled all the way to the Pocomoke River! Experienced paddlers that can handle open water, several miles of paddling, and the chance for wind and boat traffic, can paddle all the way to Shell Mill Landing up the Bishopville Prong.
Swim & Racquet Club
Despite its name, the Ocean Pines Swim & Racquet Club has a lot more to offer than just a pool and tennis courts. A walking trail loops around the perimeter of this waterfront park, totaling just over ⅓ of a mile.
There is also a small beach next to the pool that is a great place to launch kayaks and paddleboards. Depending on the wind direction, this beach is usually a great place for beginners. Paddlers can head up the protected canals of the Teal Bay neighborhood, or head out into the St. Martins River—just be prepared for boat traffic on the river.
Paddling between White Horse Park and the Swim & Racquet Club make for a great little adventure. Pack a picnic lunch, launch at the Swim & Racquet Club, and paddle a mile upriver to White Horse Park for a picnic and a walk through the woods. Or reverse your trip, starting at White Horse Park and having your picnic on the beach at the Swim & Racquet Club.
If you’re really looking for an adventure, launch at the Swim & Racquet Club and paddle two miles to the Ocean Pines Yacht Club for lunch! Use the Mumford Landing boat ramp to pull your kayak or paddleboard out of the water while you grab a bite to eat.
Pintail Park
Pintail Park is a tiny park located just south of the Yacht Club and offers both a walking trail and water access. The walking trail makes a small loop around the park, but you can add mileage to your walk with the trail extensions that lead from Pintail Drive, all the way up to Mumford Landing Road—no need to walk along the busy Ocean Parkway here!
Pintail Park also features an ADA-accessible kayak launch. This floating launch is close to the parking area and is one of the best accessible launches on all of Maryland’s Coast, making paddling feasible to those with limited mobility. The canals of the Pintail Isle neighborhood are protected from wind and current, but as you head out into the open bay, be prepared for potentially choppy water and boat traffic.
Boston Drive Soft Launch
This spot is probably Ocean Pines’ best kept paddling secret! Tucked behind the mailboxes on Boston Drive is an official soft launch that provides paddling access to the quiet waters of Manklin Creek. The parking area is narrow, but you can back a car down close to the water and then park close to the trees.
For those paddlers looking for a beginner-friendly, nature-filled experience, Boston Drive is the place to be. Manklin Creek is fairly protected from wind, there is very little boat traffic, and there is even a side marsh creek to explore that is typically packed with green herons, great blue herons, and osprey in the summer. You may even spot a few diamondback terrapins popping their heads above the water’s surface.
South Gate Pond & Route 90 Trails
It’s hard to miss the 0.75-mile walking trail that loops around the large South Gate Pond. Parking is available near the intersection of Cathell Road and Ocean Parkway, as well as at the library and indoor pool.
If you want to add more mileage and get a little more shade, head to the library and venture to the trailhead in the back corner of the parking lot. This 1.5-mile trail runs parallel to Route 90, but a good amount of trees separates the trail from the road.
Sherwood Forest Trail
If you’re looking for a walking path in the southernmost part of Ocean Pines, the Sherwood Forest Trail is a great option. The trail is 1.6 miles long and meanders across several side streets. The best place to access the trail is from Robin Hood Park which has a small parking area. The trail heads in either direction from there—across the street, or back into the woods behind the playground. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for trail markers though, as some of them are easy to miss!
There’s no shortage of places to explore the outdoors in Ocean Pines. With over 7 miles of walking trails and 10 miles of water trails, runners, walkers, hikers, and paddlers can find a variety of scenery to enjoy, all nestled in one of the largest residential communities along Maryland’s Coast.
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