March On The Mattawoman Returns March 28 At Smallwood State Park

MARBURY, Md. — It may only be February, but Southern Maryland residents already have something to look forward to as the snow melts. One of the clearest signs of spring — the return of the ospreys — is just weeks away.

The annual March on the Mattawoman will take place Saturday, March 28, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m. at Smallwood State Park, inviting families and outdoor enthusiasts to gather along Mattawoman Creek and celebrate the changing season.

Hosted by Maryland State Parks, the free event highlights the migration of ospreys back to the region and the start of spring fishing in one of the East Coast’s premier bass fishing areas.

Visitors can take part in guided birding and osprey observation, fishing and casting practice, youth crafts and games, guest speakers and demonstrations, and explore the park’s Discovery Center. Food trucks will be on-site during lunchtime.

All activity supplies will be provided, though guests are welcome to bring their own fishing rods, tackle, binoculars or field guides.

The event is free, but standard park entry fees apply. Registration is required to help organizers plan accordingly.

Anyone 16 or older who plans to fish must have a valid Chesapeake Bay & Coastal Sport Fish License.

For those eager to watch for early arrivals, a live Chesapeake Bay osprey camera is available through the Chesapeake Conservancy in partnership with Explore.org. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources osprey cam is currently not operating.

Community members are encouraged to sign up early, mark their calendars and plan an afternoon outdoors celebrating wildlife and the promise of spring in Southern Maryland.

Register for March on the Mattawoman here.

Park Information

From November through March, Smallwood State Park is open daily from 7 a.m. to sunset. Day-use admission during those months is $3 per vehicle for Maryland residents and $5 per vehicle for out-of-state residents.

From April through October, park hours are 5 a.m. to sunset. Admission on weekends and holidays is $3 per person for Maryland residents and $5 per person for out-of-state residents. Weekday admission during those months is $3 per vehicle for Maryland residents and $5 per vehicle for out-of-state residents.

Camping options include electric campsites at $27.50 per night, youth group campsites at no cost with a Maryland Park Service youth group pass, and mini-cabins ranging from $50.50 for four-person units to $65.50 for six-person units. Picnic shelters are available, with rates based on capacity. Boat launch fees are $10 per vehicle for Maryland residents and $12 per vehicle for out-of-state residents. Additional transaction or applicable fees may apply.

---