Canoe And Kayak Launch Site Added To Downs Park

Anne Arundel County recreation activists have become serious about improving water access in an area that has about 540 miles of shoreline. In October 2014, county officials broke ground at the future site of the first county-owned boat ramp at Fort Smallwood Park, and during the spring, the Department of Recreation and Parks turned a waterfront picnic site at Downs Park into a sheltered kayak, canoe and stand-up paddleboard launch.

Located on Locust Cove, a tributary of Bodkin Creek, the new site marks the second water access point at Downs Park. The other is located on the bay side.

“We’re really excited about this,” said Lisa Arrasmith, a member of the Anne Arundel County Public Water Access Committee. “It’s the first access point on Bodkin Creek, which is a wonderfully sheltered hurricane hole.”

A hurricane hole is a cove or inlet under the cover of trees in which sailboats anchor and take shelter during major storms. Downs Park superintendent Deb Yeater said the launch site provides a more sheltered alternative for kayakers.

“The bay can be choppy and is not always the best for inexperienced kayakers,” Yeater said. “On the [Locust] Cove side, the bottom can be muddy and it can be muddy to get into a kayak, but it is more sheltered. [The area] is tidal sensitive, so it’s just a matter of preference.”

When the launch site was added, the picnic area was moved so visitors wouldn’t be deterred by people transporting kayaks while families were eating or socializing. But those who enjoy the picnic area can still take advantage of its use.

Arrasmith emphasized that creating a water access point in a county park is an inexpensive method to improve water access. Beachwood Park, Fort Smallwood Park and Green Haven Wharf  — located on Stoney Creek  —  also have boat launch amenities.

“It’s one piece of the puzzle,” Arrasmith said. “The Bodkin is a wonderful place to paddle. I’m a hardcore paddler. Some days the Chesapeake Bay is like glass, and some days, you don’t want to be out there.”