🌤 Weather at Purse State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 37–76 °F | 66–88 °F | 39–80 °F | 28–49 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Quantico Mcas, 9 mi away, elevation 10 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🦈 60-Million-Year-Old Shark Teeth on the Potomac — Maryland’s Premier Fossil Hunting Beach — An undeveloped, rustic park on the Potomac River where visitors find Paleocene-era shark teeth, ray plates, and marine fossils at the waterline — Charles County, Maryland
Purse State Park (now part of the Nanjemoy Wildlife Management Area) is Maryland’s best-kept fossil hunting secret — a rustic, undeveloped stretch of Potomac River shoreline where 60-million-year-old shark teeth, ray plates, and marine fossils wash out of the eroding Aquia Formation and scatter across the beach at low tide.
This is not a museum or a guided experience — it’s raw, unstructured fossil hunting on a wild Potomac River beach surrounded by tidal wetlands and mature forest. The fossils here are Paleocene-era (55–60 million years old), significantly older than the more famous Miocene-era fossils at Calvert Cliffs. Bald eagles soar overhead, and the surrounding wetlands support a rich diversity of wildlife.
Fossil Hunting Guide
| What to Find | Size | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Shark Teeth | ¼” – 1″ | Black, scan sand/gravel at waterline |
| Ray Plates | ½” – 2″ | Flat, dark, hexagonal shapes |
| Marine Shells | Various | Fossilized gastropods, bivalves |
| Formation | Aquia (Paleocene) | 55–60 million years old |
What to Know
| Feature | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Trail | ¼–½ mile to beach | Easy, through forest |
| Best Timing | LOW TIDE | Beach disappears at high tide |
| Facilities | NONE | No restrooms, water, or services |
| Parking | Small gravel lot | Off Route 224 |
| Rules | Collecting OK | No digging — surface collecting only |
| Wildlife | Bald eagles, herons | Tidal wetlands, forest habitat |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr–May) | 55–72°F | Low tides, comfortable weather, eagles |
| Fall (Sep–Oct) | 52–72°F | Storm-exposed fossils, cooler temps |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 78–90°F | Longest days for low-tide windows |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 30–48°F | Fresh erosion exposes new fossils |
💰 Trip Cost Estimator
| Expense | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Access | FREE | No fees, no facilities |
| Day Trip | FREE | 60-million-year-old fossils on the Potomac |
Frequently Asked Questions
How old are the fossils?
55–60 million years old — Paleocene era. These are significantly older than the Miocene-era fossils at Calvert Cliffs. They come from the Aquia Formation, a marine sediment layer exposed along the Potomac.
Do I really need to check the tide?
Absolutely. The beach is narrow and can completely disappear at high tide. Always check tide charts before visiting — plan to arrive 1–2 hours before low tide for the best window.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, with preparation. Kids love finding shark teeth, but bring your own water, snacks, insect repellent, and sun protection. There are zero facilities on-site.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Smallwood State Park is a short drive away, and Cedarville State Forest is within about an hour’s drive.
🦈 Ancient Fossils on the Potomac
60-million-year-old shark teeth washing up on a wild Potomac River beach — free access, raw adventure, bald eagles overhead.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Purse State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Maryland state parks welcome leashed pets, but where they may go is set park by park under the Maryland Park Service Pet Policy — check each park's designated pet areas.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- 6 ft maximum in designated pet areas and 10 ft in undeveloped areas; off-leash under voice control only while swimming in designated areas
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- At most parks pets are barred from sandy swim beaches from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day; many parks allow shoreline swimming outside the swim beach
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Most cabins are pet-free, but select parks designate pet-friendly cabins (e.g. Herrington Manor cabins 1-10, New Germany cabins 3-7)
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets not allowed in park buildings or playgrounds; pets must be licensed and vaccinated
Are dogs allowed at Purse State Park?
Maryland state parks welcome leashed pets, but where they may go is set park by park under the Maryland Park Service Pet Policy — check each park's designated pet areas. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via dnr.maryland.gov. More: Maryland state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
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