Calvert Cliffs State Park
Lusby, Maryland
fossil shark teethmegalodon teethray dental platesmiocene shellsfossil coral
State park dig · Fee
Calvert Cliffs State Park
Maryland's most famous fossil beach lies at the end of a 1.8-mile walk on the Red Trail, where a stretch of Chesapeake sand collects whatever the Miocene cliffs shed. Tiger, sand and hammerhead teeth are routine and megalodon does turn up. Collect only from the open beach at the end of the trail: DNR states that it is illegal to collect fossils beneath the cliffs, and climbing on or walking beneath them is prohibited because the area is permanently closed after fatal landslides.
The card catalog
| What you can find | fossil shark teeth, megalodon teeth, ray dental plates, miocene shells, fossil coral |
|---|---|
| Access | State park dig — Fee |
| Fees | $5 per vehicle, with an additional $2 for out-of-state residents; small bus $10, large bus $20. Cash only. |
| Season & hours | Open sunrise to sunset, daily, year-round. Low tide and the day after a storm are when the beach refreshes. |
| Kids | Family-friendly — The 1.8-mile Red Trail each way is the real obstacle for small children — plan on 3.6 miles round trip and expect to carry the youngest. Sieves and shovels are permitted on the open beach. |
| Official source | Maryland Dept. of Natural Resources |
| Last checked | Checked against its source August 16, 2026 |
Hours, fees, and access rules change. Verify with the operator or land agency before you go.
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Before you go
What does Calvert Cliffs State Park cost?
$5 per vehicle, with an additional $2 for out-of-state residents; small bus $10, large bus $20. Cash only. Hours, fees, and access rules change. Verify with the operator or land agency before you go.
When is Calvert Cliffs State Park open?
Open sunrise to sunset, daily, year-round. Low tide and the day after a storm are when the beach refreshes. Hours, fees, and access rules change. Verify with the operator or land agency before you go.
Is Calvert Cliffs State Park good for kids?
Yes — Calvert Cliffs State Park works for families. The 1.8-mile Red Trail each way is the real obstacle for small children — plan on 3.6 miles round trip and expect to carry the youngest. Sieves and shovels are permitted on the open beach.