The wetlands surrounding SERC
· · ·

Explore the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center  (SERC)

The Smithsonian Institution has an ecological research center just south of Annapolis, Maryland, called the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC). Located off Muddy Creek Road in Edgewater, SERC has everything from trails to a spot for launching canoes and kayaks, plus an environmental archaeology museum. SERC is currently open to visitors daily. 

The place is massive—2,650 acres, to be exact—complete with 15 miles of protected shoreline. That means scientists from all sorts of fields are there studying coastal environments and the issues they face around the globe. The trails and floating dock are open to the public all year round (except for Christmas and New Year’s). Just stop at the entrance booth and let the gate guard know you’re there to explore. Admission is free with only a $5 fee if you want to launch from the dock. 

Blue crab tagging at SERC

Hiking and Paddling at SERC

If you’re into hiking or paddling, SERC has got you covered. There are four miles of trails that wind through marshlands, woods, and along the shore, making it a great spot to connect with nature. You can even launch your own canoe or kayak from the floating dock (just pay a small $5 fee at the Reed Education Center) and paddle around the Rhode River. No swimming or wading is allowed. Birdwatchers will love it here too—over 225 species of birds have been spotted at SERC. 

The Reed Education Center is an excellent place to start your visit. You can view the fish tanks and small exhibits related to SERC’s research and use a reading corner for kids and books for adults. Trail maps are available online and can be found at the Reed Education Center, Contee Watershed Trail, and New Dominion Building kiosks.

Maryland History at SERC

If you’re interested in history, you should definitely visit the Woodlawn History Center, which opened in 2022. It’s located in a plantation home built back in 1735 and has some fascinating exhibits about the history of the area and the people who lived there, including Indigenous people and enslaved individuals. Many of the artifacts on display were excavated by SERC’s volunteers. The Center is only open on select Fridays and Saturdays. Check the website in advance for dates

Just southeast of the Woodlawn History Center, you’ll find the remains of the Java Plantation home, which belonged to U.S. Marine Corps First Lieutenant John Contee. He renamed the place Java after a famous naval battle he fought in. Unfortunately, a lightning strike in 1890 led to a fire that damaged the mansion, and now all that’s left is a brick ruin. You can see the outline of the original structure, and two of SERC’s trails start near this historic site.

So, whether you’re into outdoor activities, birdwatching, or history, SERC has something for everyone.

Smithsonian Environmental Research Center  (SERC)
https://serc.si.edu/visit
647 Contees Wharf Road, Edgewater

New Fall 2024 Visiting Hours: Monday – Sunday 8am – 4:30 pm.
Hike the trails on a Sunday, or even Thanksgiving day. SERC is now open 7 days a week. And only closed on Christmas, New Year’s Day and occasional Saturdays for winter forest management.

Find more hikes

Photos courtesy of the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center

Similar Posts