Itinerary:
Harrington Park Road
Putting in at Harrington Park Road will take you through residential Kent County. This launch site is excellent for launching kayaks and canoes, but please note that due to the residential nature of this area, parking is very limited. The site is located at the dead end of Harrington Park Road. Launching from this site puts paddlers onto Herringtown Creek. Paddlers might choose to head less than one mile downstream to where Herringtown meets Grays Inn Creek. Grays Inn Creek was once the site of one of a few major shipyards on the eastern shore which produced ships for sailing the Chesapeake and beyond.
Beyond Grays Inn Creek lies the lower Chester River. Paddling the creek in either direction will yield views of a variety of landscapes. Residential development, wild marshland, large farms, and grand waterfront estates are a few of the sites that await you at this site.
Things to Know
From the landing, it is less than one mile to where Herringtown Creek and Grays Inn Creek converge. One option from there is to head a further two miles up Grays Inn Creek to its head of navigation. In the opposite direction, paddlers will go for less than two miles before reaching the mouth of Grays Inn and the Chester River.
Upstream from the landing at Harrington Park Road, the creek does not continue very far before it gets too narrow to navigate; however, the water is suitable to explore by kayak or canoe, and the area is well-protected.
Navigational Hazards
This landing is well-protected and features only moderate tidal currents. Those who venture to the lower Chester River a few miles downstream will be more exposed to wind and the tides and should check the weather. Novice paddlers should stay in the creek, and only intermediate should attempt to enter the lower Chester River.
Water Safety
Remember: safe use of rivers and any designated trails, at any time, is your responsibility! Water trail maps are for informational and interpretive purposes only and are not meant for navigational purposes, nor do they take into account level of skills or ability required to navigate rivers. The National Park Service, Chesapeake Conservancy and/or the individual trail associations assume no responsibility or liability for any injury or loss resulting directly or indirectly from the use of water trails, maps or other printed or web-based materials. Learn more about water safety.
Marine Forecast
We STRONGLY suggested that you review the marine forecast ahead of heading out for a paddling trip. To review the forecast for this paddle trip, visit:
Emergency Information
Launch site address:
End of Harrington Park Road
Rock Hall, MD 21661
Nearest hospitals:
UM Shore Medical Center at Chestertown
100 Brown St
Chestertown, MD 21620
(410) 778-3300
Chester River Hospital Center
6602 Church Hill Rd #300
Chestertown, MD 21620
(410) 778-3300
Parking & Shuttles
Side of the road parking for approximately 4 vehicles, gravel, 5 am - 10 pm
Restrooms
No
Equipment
- ALWAYS wear a properly secured personal flotation device (PFD) when participating in paddlesport activities. Make sure that your PFD has a readily accessible safety whistle.
- Bring a paddle float and water pump for self rescue.
- A spray skirt is recommended for cold/foul weather.
- Wear appropriate protective clothing that shields you from the sun (sunglasses, sunblock, hat, and a long-sleeved shirt that can get wet) and is safe to swim in. Water shoes with closed toes will protect you from abrasive hazards at launch areas that can cut your feet.
- Bring water in bottles than can be secured to your craft. Bring more water than you think you’ll need and drink regularly throughout your journey.
Outfitters
- Chester River Kayak Adventures - (410) 639-2001
Camping & Amenities
This site is for soft launch only, with a dirt ramp from which to launch small vessels by hand. Due to the residential nature of this landing, amenities are extremely limiting, including restrooms and parking.
There are no camping amenities at this site.
Trail History
Before the Civil War, the farmlands of Kent and Queen Anne’s Counties began to be known for their bounty of corn, wheat, and fruit. The introduction of the railroads to these areas opened them up for shipping to other counties in Maryland and beyond, which bolstered the economy of these places greatly. This growth was also accelerated by technological improvements in farm machinery. Shipbuilders in the 18th century enhanced trade by building small boats for local transportation, in addition to larger-masted vessels for trade internationally. Eventually the great steamboats of the early 20th century allowed for increased trade and tourism, bringing products and people to and from the eastern shore. Though the eastern shore is largely characterized by wide open spaces and vast farmlands, advancements and innovations in transportation have allowed for the spread of products, a boost to the economy, and the movement of people to these less-habited shores.
