Explore, Learn & Kayak on Maryland’s Eastern Shore

The Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center (CBEC) is a 510-acre preserve located in Queen Anne’s County, MD

Visit Us

600 Discovery Lane
Grasonville, MD 21638

Open Daily

Hours: 9am to 5pm
Weather permitting

Become a Member

Explore our Individual, Family & Business Memberships

Explore Outdoor Activities at CBEC!

Maps & Trails

Over xx miles or acres available

Kayak Rentals

2024 Kayak Rental Season Runs May 5 – Nov 3

Annual Events

CBEC hosts a a wide variety of programs each year.

Birds & Wildlife

The Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center (CBEC) is a 510-acre preserve

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Acres including wetlands, marshes, meadows and shoreline
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6 miles of hiking trails
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Miles of shoreline
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Visitors to CBEC
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Volunteers
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Volunteer Hours
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School children participate in CBEC education programs
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Instruction hours of classes, programs, field studies and events
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International visitors interested in CBEC’s restoration successes
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Adults participate in CBEC education programs
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Species of birds
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445 acres of marsh restored
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55 acres of forest restored
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1.2 acres of pollinator meadow restored
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10 acres of sportfish habitat restored
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13 million oysters restored
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Species of flora and fauna

Upcoming Events

CBEC speaker series of entertaining and educational talks on wildlife of the Chesapeake Bay.

Ongoing dates

Join us for an unforgettable evening with premium bourbons, food pairings, and live music.

June 24, 2024

Rock out at CBEC for an incredible evening with live music, food stations, auctions, and much more.

June 24, 2024

CBEC’s annual fishing derby returns for another perfect weekend of fishing for all ages.

August 3, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

What CBEC Is?

The Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center is a nonprofit 510-acre 501(c)3 nature center. We are deeply committed to environmental sustainability through providing people with authentic outdoor recreational and educational experiences that contribute to the health of the Chesapeake Bay.

What CBEC Is Not?

CBEC is not part of any other Chesapeake Bay organization. It is a unique entity incorporated as Wildfowl Trust of North America Inc., EIN 52-1188939. CBEC is not an advocacy or lobbying group; it is apolitical.

Where is CBEC Located?

600 Discovery Lane, Grasonville, Maryland, just off US 301/US 50.

CBEC is open from 8 am to 5 pm daily except some holidays. The Visitor Center is open mid-April through mid-November, but the property open is year-round.

What is the best time of year to visit CBEC?

  • There is abundant wildlife year-round at CBEC. Birding is excellent throughout the year, from spring migrants to waterfowl on our lakes, ponds and bay waters. Winter migrants start appearing in November and head north in late February-March.

What can I do at CBEC?

  • Hike and walk 6 miles of walking trails; bring a picnic and enjoy our small beach; visit our captive birds of prey; photograph birds, wildlife and native plants and trees; kayak and paddle board in Marshy Creek and the Chesapeake Bay; and participate in education programs for preschoolers, school-age children and adults.

What is not permitted in CBEC?

  • No disturbance of animal or plant life. Molesting, injuring, disturbing or destroying any animal or plant is prohibited. Do not disturb artifacts and historic items. Do not take any bones, plants, rocks or other objects from the property. No fishing in CBEC’s ponds and lakes. No alcohol or drugs are permitted.

Can I bring my dogs to CBEC?

  • Visitors are permitted to bring their dogs on leash. We ask that you purchase a “dog membership” [insert link], providing information about your dog’s immunizations, etc.

What animals and flora are at CBEC?

  • CBEC is a birding hotspot.  Eagles, ospreys, owls, herons, egrets, swans and ducks are abundant at varying times of the year. You may spot foxes, racoons, groundhogs, deer, otter and muskrats. Turtles and terrapins can be found along our waters and shorelines. CBEC’s property contains forests, meadows and marshlands, populated with species native to the Eastern Shore.

Is fishing permitted?

  • Fishing is not allowed in any of CBEC’s ponds or lakes, but it is permitted in Chesapeake Bay waters with proper licenses.

Is hunting permitted?

  • Hunting by the public on CBEC property is not allowed. The deer population is actively managed by CBEC and its agents.

Can I have my wedding, baby shower, birthday party or other event at CBEC? 

  • Yes, CBEC rents its facilities to CBEC members.  For more information, visit the Facility Rental page.