Who hasn’t watched Jurassic Park and thought how cool it would be to be on a dig site discovering fossils?  Well, you can make that dream a reality by visiting the Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum of Archaeology in St. Leonard.  This place has SO MUCH to talk about, I don’t even know where to begin!  First off, they have an active archaeological dig site on the premises that volunteers like you are allowed to help on!  You can help dig and screen for artifacts in the field, or wash, label, and count objects at the Maryland Archaeological Conservation (MAC) Lab.

After helping on the dig site, make sure to take a tour of the MAC Lab, a state-of-the-art archaeological research, conservation, and curation facility that serves as a clearinghouse for archaeological collections recovered from land-based and underwater projects conducted by State and Federal agencies throughout Maryland.  Speaking of tours, also check out the tours available to visitors, including a behind the scenes tour of the MAC Lab, a tour of Point Farm House and garden (the residence of the late Pattersons for which the park was named), or a tour of a recreated Patuxent Indian village.

All of this, and you still have a great park to explore and enjoy nature in!  They have many trails to choose from (one of which is themed to the War of 1812), as well as a canoe and kayak launch.  Be sure to check in at the visitor’s center if you plan on using the launch point.  And while you’re on the water, keep an eye out for bald eagles!  They also have summer camps and programs for kids, so check it out!

Where: 10515 Mackall Road, St. Leonard, MD 20685
410-586-8501

Hours:
Visitor Center
Wednesday through Sunday, mid-April – mid-October.
10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Administration Office
Monday through Friday, year-round
8:30 am – 5:00 pm

Admission is Free!

Connect with them on Facebook, and find out more about their summer programs on their website!

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