Kent County: Nature, Water and History

An island nature preserve, a paddling destination and historic places give Kent County its many different facets. Nature lovers will find plenty to explore here, as will travelers interested in architecture, regional history and events. When planning your hotel stay, it helps to first consider which of these themes will shape your trip.

Nature on the Water and Along the Trails

The Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge is a 2,285-acre island nature preserve at the mouth of the Chester River in Kent County. It is an important feeding and resting site for migratory and overwintering waterfowl. Wildlife can be observed along seven trails, and the refuge also offers expansive views of the Chester River and Chesapeake Bay. The scenery and water are just as much a part of the nature experience as the birdlife.

The Millington Wildlife Management Area offers a different range of wildlife. Its habitats support white-tailed deer, turkeys, quail, woodcock, waterfowl and songbirds, as well as other wildlife. The area is open year-round to non-hunters. Activities include hiking, fishing, biking on designated trails, birdwatching and nature photography. Check notices about active hunting seasons before your visit.

Paddling on the Sassafras River

The Sassafras River Water Trail offers paddling opportunities in a landscape described as scenic. It is more than 20 miles long and follows the shores of Kent and Cecil Counties before flowing into Chesapeake Bay. This gives you two different perspectives to choose from when planning your trip: trails and wildlife viewing on land, or the river landscape from the water.

Chestertown: Historic Trails and Events

Chestertown combines a historic streetscape with its location on the Chester River. The Historic District features brick paths and colonial-era homes. The Historical Society of Kent County’s self-guided tour of the district includes 29 stops and was expanded in 2024. It offers a structured way to explore these historic sites. Washington College was also founded in 1782.

The event calendar includes the Chestertown Tea Party Festival, held annually over Memorial Day weekend. Dates and programming may change, so check current event information before your trip. The Chestertown Farmers and Artisans Market also offers a glimpse of daily life in the town: it takes place every Saturday year-round. Check market hours and participating vendors in advance.

Rock Hall and Practical Information

In Rock Hall, the Waterman's Museum has exhibits on oyster harvesting, crabbing and fishing. The exhibits offer insights into local fishing traditions. For visitors more interested in natural history, the Visitor Contact Station at Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge is located in a historic hunting lodge. Its exhibits cover the refuge’s habitats and history; visitor center staffing may vary.

From Chestertown, you can reach Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge via Route 20 and then Route 445 through Rock Hall. Road conditions and signage may change, so it’s worth checking before you drive. When planning your hotel stay, you can first decide what to focus on: birdwatching and the refuge, paddling, or historic sites and events.

Discover more destinations: Chestertown, Rock Hall, Massey, Washington, Charles County, Baltimore, Anne Arundel, Queen Anne's

For the broader travel overview: Maryland.