Myrtle Grove Wildlife Management Area

Deep within Charles County, Maryland, lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered: the Myrtle Grove Wildlife Management Area. It’s a place where the whispers of history mingle with the rustle of leaves and the calls of diverse wildlife. Originally acquired by the State of Maryland in 1929 as a modest 754-acre tract, Myrtle Grove Wildlife Management Area has grown significantly over the decades. Today, it sprawls across an impressive 5,190 acres. This expansion makes it the largest Wildlife Management Area in the Southern Region. This area was once the home of the Piscataway Indians. Their presence can still be felt in the ancient trees and flowing waters. Myrtle Grove Wildlife Management Area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, a sanctuary teeming with life. The area encompasses the forested bottomlands of Mattawoman Creek. Mature hardwood forests dominate the landscape. Oaks, hickories, maples, sycamores, poplars, and beech trees create a lush canopy. Within this vibrant ecosystem, wildlife thrives. White-tailed deer roam freely, their graceful movements a testament to the area’s tranquility. Fish dart through the clear waters of the 23-acre Myrtle Grove Lake. Turtles bask in the sun along the banks, while upland game, forest game, waterfowl, and migratory birds find refuge among the trees. The lake is also periodically stocked with rainbow trout. It offers excellent opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Anglers can also cast their lines in hopes of catching largemouth bass, bluegills, pickerel, and catfish. Did you know that a few stocked rainbow trout have surprisingly been found surviving the hot summer months? It seems there’s a cool water spring near the middle of the 23-acre lake. This spring provides a refuge for these cold-water fish, allowing them to persist long after their brethren have succumbed to the heat. Myrtle Grove Wildlife Management Area also features two man-made green-tree reservoirs. These reservoirs are intentionally flooded during the fall and winter months while the trees lie dormant. This creates a rich feeding ground for migrating and wintering waterfowl, who feast on the nuts and seeds dropped by the trees. For those seeking more active pursuits, Myrtle Grove Wildlife Management Area offers an eight-station firearm shooting range, a trap range, and a three-station archery range. These ranges are open to the public by permit. They offer a safe and controlled environment for target practice and honing shooting skills. Whether you’re a hunter, a fisherman, a birdwatcher, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Myrtle Grove Wildlife Management Area has something to offer. Come, explore its trails, immerse yourself in its rich history, and discover the wonders that await within its boundaries.