Sassafras Natural Resources Management Area
Overview
Sassafras Natural Resources Management Area covers approximately 1,100 acres along the Sassafras River and Turner Creek in Kent County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The area protects a scenic blend of tidal wetlands, hardwood forests, and agricultural fields on the upper Chesapeake Bay, providing habitat for a wide variety of wildlife including waterfowl, raptors, and the endangered Delmarva fox squirrel.
Recreation and Activities
Hunting is the primary recreational activity, with deer, turkey, waterfowl, and small game hunting permitted during designated seasons. Fishing is available along the Sassafras River and Turner Creek, with opportunities for largemouth bass, catfish, and striped bass. Hiking and nature observation trails provide access to the diverse habitats.
Birdwatching is excellent year-round, with winter waterfowl concentrations and spring songbird migration providing peak viewing opportunities. The tidal marshes attract herons, egrets, and osprey throughout the warmer months.
Location and Access
Sassafras NRMA is located in Kent County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, accessible from Maryland Route 298 and local roads near the community of Turner. The town of Chestertown is approximately 15 miles to the south.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee?
Access is generally free. Hunting requires appropriate Maryland licenses and stamps.
Can I launch a boat?
Check with Maryland DNR for current boat launch availability. Small car-top boats and kayaks can typically be launched from designated access points.
Why was sassafras valuable?
When Europeans first arrived, sassafras was believed to cure syphilis and other diseases — making it enormously valuable. Sassafras was one of the first New World products exported to Europe (1584). The aromatic roots were also used for tea and root beer flavoring. While the medicinal claims proved false, sassafras remained culturally important — sassafras tea and file powder (from dried sassafras leaves, essential in Cajun gumbo) are still used today.
Getting There
Located near Betterton in Kent County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The Sassafras River was named by Captain John Smith during his 1608 exploration of the Chesapeake Bay — he found abundant sassafras trees used for tea and medicine. The Eastern Shore’s flat farmland and marshes produce world-class waterfowl hunting and birdwatching. Kent County is the least populated county in Maryland.
Insider Tips
Eastern Shore: Sassafras protects forest and farmland on the upper Eastern Shore — a landscape of quiet beauty. Pro tip: The sassafras tree was one of America’s first export products — Europeans believed its aromatic bark cured diseases. Captain John Smith: Smith explored the Chesapeake Bay in 1608 — his remarkably accurate maps guided settlement for centuries.
Best Time to Visit
Fall: Eastern Shore harvest season. Spring: Migrating warblers. Summer: Green canopy hiking. Winter: Waterfowl on nearby rivers.
