Gunpowder Basin in Maryland

Trip Overview

Located near the Heart of Central Maryland, Gunpowder Basin is the convergence of three bodies of water: the Chesapeake Bay, the Big Gunpowder River, and Little Gunpowder River. All three compete for your paddling efforts according to the slightly noticeable tide.

Launching at Mariner's Point Ramp, part of a beautiful and well maintained local Park, with restroom and parking facilities, the paddling options are almost limitless. You can leisurely paddle the tranquil waters of Gunpowder Cove and view the splendid waterfront homes along the canal. Or you can paddle up the Little Gunpowder and watch River Otters play in the cool waters. Or you can explore the many fingers of the Big Gunpowder as it slowly splinters off into countless coves, waterways and creeks as it lethargically makes its' way into the Gunpowder Basin. These waters are teeming with big fish, water birds of every kind, and easy paddling for those who like their adventures at a slower pace, like me.

Wherever you are in the Basin, you are only a few minutes from the Ramp. So if you give out before your paddle does, you can always relax and take a rest under the Park trees-I do. And, best of all, its' all free! Enjoy!

Accommodations:

Local Park (open 24 hrs.) includes parking, trails, picnicking, restroom facilities, playground, biking, 4-lane modern boat ramp, all patrolled by county deputies.

Directions:

From the NorhtEast side of Baltimore, take exit #74 east off 95. Go 1/2 mile and make a right onto route 40. Take rt. 40 for 1/14 miles and make a left onto Joppa Farm Rd.. 1 1/2 miles later, make a right onto Kearney Dr. 1/2 mile Kearney dead ends at the park. the ramp is immediately on the right and parking is directly on the left.

Resources:

ADC Harford or Baltimore County maps show both roads and general water paddling areas in good detail.