Camp Merryelande#

FIG. 1 view of beach at Camp Merryelande

upshot:  this SE facing launch is great for beginners as the water is
about waist deep for 1000 ft out.  Launch carries a $10 fee, is
privately owned, but has an ambiance that is unlike most other launches
as it is absent of the ordinary hustle and bustle of most public
facilities, is absent of signs with long list of rules and trooper shades.
You really feel away from it all here.

FIG. 2 map showing directions to launch

Directions:  MD Rt 5 south to through Leonardtown and past junction
with Rt 4.  About 9 miles south of Leonardtown, turn right onto
MD Rt 249.  Travel 10 miles on MD Rt 249 onto St George Island and
turn right onto Thomas Rd.  Travel 1 mile on Thomas Rd and bear
right at a fork for the camp. 

Best Wind Directions:  E, SE, S, SW

Fee:  $10/day

Amenities:  Wifi Internet access, small store

Hazards:  wooden poles/partially submerged jetties close to shore

Strategize:  nearby Piney Point launch provides launch access but
 without the fee.

Notes:  excellent for beginners as sand bars cause water to be shallow
far out but not too shallow for a fin or a centerboard.  No gear carry,
you can drop your gear off right at the beach or have a cart carry it for you

Place has rooms to stay, but they fill up well in advance.  Camp has two
websites, one is campmd.com and the other is mdbeach.com. 

kayaks for rental available, bands in evening during summer

Far away and to the right and straight ahead is the Northern Neck of
Virginia, to the left is Pt Lookout, and to the far left is the mouth of the
St Mary's River.  Challenging currents far out where the Potomac and the
St Mary's Rivers meet.

FIG. 3 view of camp buildings from parking lot

FIG. 4 aerial view of camp - note beach is spacious and you
can launch from practically anywhere

FIG. 5 view of pier and kayaks at beach near main office

FIG. 6 view looking east from main office area showing the spacious
beach/launch area with the St Mary's river to the left and Pt Lookout
peninsula in the distance

FIG. 7 view of intersection on St George Island where you turn right onto
Thomas Road and leave Rt 249.