“Mournful cry of the mourning dove” Can you hear it? Welcome to Cheltenham Acres Recreation Area. This 80-acre area is a haven for wildlife and recreation. It is owned by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services.
Cheltenham Acres Recreation Area offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Rolling grass agricultural fields and young forests define its landscape. These habitats are home to diverse wildlife.
Mourning doves and songbirds thrive here. The “bob-bob-white” call of the bobwhite quail often fills the air. Grain crops are grown in agricultural fields to support these birds. White-tailed deer and cottontail rabbits also find refuge in Cheltenham Acres Recreation Area. Several songbird species find a haven among the surrounding development of Prince George’s County.
Cheltenham Acres Recreation Area offers two main activities. First enjoy the state-of-the-art “walk through” archery range. It simulates hunting situations for archers. The range features 12 targets and one tree-stand station. Archers can hone their skills for the field here. The archery range is open from dawn to dusk seven days a week.
Dove hunting is also popular. The dove hunting area is open by permit and reservation during appropriate seasons. Several walking trails meander through Cheltenham Acres Recreation Area. Hikers should be aware of the archery range and dove hunting seasons.
Cheltenham Acres Recreation Area has a few regulations. Use of Cheltenham WMA is generally permitted seven days a week. All State and Federal Hunting Laws and Regulations are applicable. Archery deer hunting is permitted by permit and reservation only. Dove hunting is allowed by permit only and is restricted to certain days and shooting hours. Motorized vehicles are prohibited.
Annual food plots are established to support wildlife. Mourning doves and bobwhite quail benefit from these plantings. White-tailed deer and cottontail rabbits also take advantage of them.
Cheltenham Acres Recreation Area is about 25 miles southeast of Washington D.C. It is 35 miles southwest of Annapolis and 10 miles north of Waldorf in Charles County. To get here from U.S. Route 50/301 take the Route 301 exit south toward Richmond Va. Turn left on Old Indian Head Road about 5 miles south of the Route 4 exit. Follow Old Indian Head Road to Cheltenham WMA.
Cheltenham Acres Recreation Area is managed by the Wildlife and Heritage Service. The primary mission is to conserve and enhance wildlife populations. It also provides public recreational use of the State’s wildlife resources.
Eighty-five percent of the funding for Maryland’s state wildlife programs comes from hunting license fees. A federal excise tax on sport hunting devices and ammunition also contributes. The federal aid funds are derived from the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Fund. Sportsmen and women have been contributing to this fund since 1937.
Other sources of funds include Program Open Space Funding. This supports Maryland’s State and local parks and conservation areas. Established in 1969 Program Open Space symbolizes Maryland’s long-term commitment to conserving natural resources while providing exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities.
So as you explore Cheltenham Acres Recreation Area remember its role in conservation and recreation. Enjoy the beauty and the sounds of nature. Appreciate the efforts that make this haven possible. Take a moment to reflect on the importance of preserving such spaces for future generations.