How do I access Merritt Park?

Merritt Park is a public beach launch in Maryland. There is no entrance fee. Hours: Sunrise to Sunset, year round.

What activities are available at Merritt Park?

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

What amenities are at Merritt Park?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, trash receptacles, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Merritt Park?

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

What are the water conditions at Merritt Park?

Water conditions at Merritt Park include mild current, sheltered.

Is Merritt Park good for beginners?

Yes, Merritt Park 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 RampParkingRestroomsDockTrash ReceptaclesADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Merritt Park

Dundalk, MD · Beach Launch · Public

Merritt Park is a public beach launch on Bullneck Creek near Dundalk, Maryland. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Creek

Launch Type

Beach Launch

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

Hours

Sunrise to Sunset, year round

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 Merritt Park near Dundalk, Maryland. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Merritt Park offers access to Bullneck Creek in Maryland, where narrow waterways and overhanging trees create intimate paddling.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. The Northeast offers seasonal paddling with vibrant fall foliage and warm summer days on the water.

Expect mild current and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock and trash receptacles and ada accessible.

Merritt Park sits about 5 min from Dundalk, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

Paddling Tips

•Expect tight turns and occasional strainers (downed trees across the water).
•A shorter kayak or canoe (under 12 feet) handles creek turns more easily.
•Creek levels can rise quickly after rain — avoid paddling during or after storms.
•Bring bug spray — shaded creeks can have active mosquitoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Merritt Park?: Merritt Park is a public beach launch in Maryland. There is no entrance fee. Hours: Sunrise to Sunset, year round.
What activities are available at Merritt Park?: Merritt Park supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Merritt Park?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, trash receptacles, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Merritt Park?: The best time to paddle at Merritt Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Merritt Park?: Water conditions at Merritt Park include mild current, sheltered.
Is Merritt Park good for beginners?: Yes, Merritt Park 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: 39.2528, -76.5067