Chesapeake Bay
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Chesapeake Bay at a glance
- Best time
- March–May, October–November
- Trip length
- 1–2 days
- Don't miss
- Annapolis Sailing Cruises: Schooner Woodwind
- Nearby city
- Annapolis, MD
Explore this park
About Chesapeake Bay
Over 41 million acres are connected through the waters that flow to and through Chesapeake Bay. The National Park Service strives to connect people to the opportunities and adventures throughout the watershed. Inspiring stewardship across this vast region supports recreation, business, tourism, learning, and a thriving natural resource for all to enjoy.
No current NPS alerts
The National Park Service has no active alerts listed for Chesapeake Bay. Conditions change quickly — check again before you go.
Source: National Park Service (as of Oct 27, 2026). Official Chesapeake Bay page on nps.gov
Weather Information
Annapolis, Maryland has a warm humid temperate climate with hot summers and no dry season. Over the course of a year, the temperature typically varies from 29°F to 86°F and is rarely below 19°F or above 91°F. The warm season lasts from May 30 to September 18 with an average daily high temperature above 77°F. The cold season lasts from November 29 to March 4 with an average daily high temperature below 50°F.
Operating Hours
NPS Chesapeake Bay Office Hours
All Park Hours above refers to the core hours the Chesapeake Bay Program Office is open. This program office manages the National Park Service's responsibilities under the Chesapeake Bay Initiative and the Chesapeake Gateways & Water Trails Network. The office core hours are from 9 am to 4 pm Monday through Friday. The office is closed on federal holidays. Quite frequently, the office is open for business at least one hour earlier and one hour later than core hours.
- Monday9:00AM - 4:00PM
- Tuesday9:00AM - 4:00PM
- Wednesday9:00AM - 4:00PM
- Thursday9:00AM - 4:00PM
- Friday9:00AM - 4:00PM
- SaturdayClosed
- SundayClosed
Common questions
Planning Chesapeake Bay
The summary above covers timing and highlights. These go deeper on reservations, crowds, and logistics.
Reservation rules vary by season and activity for Chesapeake Bay. See Overview on this page for fees, timed entry, and campground details before you travel.
