How do I access Clarks Marina?

Clarks Marina is a public bank access in Maryland. There is no entrance fee. Hours: Dawn to Dusk.

What activities are available at Clarks Marina?

Clarks Marina supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Clarks Marina?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Clarks Marina?

The best time to paddle at Clarks Marina is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Clarks Marina?

Water conditions at Clarks Marina include mild current, sheltered.

Is Clarks Marina good for beginners?

Yes, Clarks Marina is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Kayakers on a calm forest river surrounded by pine trees

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

CreekMild CurrentSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestrooms

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Clarks Marina

Shady Side, MD · Bank Access · Public

This may be a private or fee-based facility. Confirm public access before visiting. Been here? Let other paddlers know below.

Clarks Marina is a public bank access on Parish Creek near Shady Side, Maryland. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

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At a Glance

Water Body

Creek

Launch Type

Bank Access

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

Hours

Dawn to Dusk

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Creek access at Clarks Marina near Shady Side, Maryland. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

For a quieter experience on the water, Clarks Marina in Maryland puts you on Parish Creek with its gentle current.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle.

Water conditions are generally mild current and sheltered. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms.

Getting here from Shady Side takes about 5 min, putting Clarks Marina within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

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Paddling Tips

•Creek levels can rise quickly after rain — avoid paddling during or after storms.
•Bring bug spray — shaded creeks can have active mosquitoes.
•Go slow and enjoy the scenery — creeks offer some of the most intimate paddling.
•Expect tight turns and occasional strainers (downed trees across the water).

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Clarks Marina?: Clarks Marina is a public bank access in Maryland. There is no entrance fee. Hours: Dawn to Dusk.
What activities are available at Clarks Marina?: Clarks Marina supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Clarks Marina?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Clarks Marina?: The best time to paddle at Clarks Marina is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Clarks Marina?: Water conditions at Clarks Marina include mild current, sheltered.
Is Clarks Marina good for beginners?: Yes, Clarks Marina is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 38.8461, -76.5144