Chapman State Park — Attraction in Indian Head

Chapman State Park is a state park 30 minutes south of Southeast DC along the Potomac River. Here's why it's worth the drive:

1. Family-friendly: If you have small children, it's perfect. There are two trails and none are longer than 1.5 miles long. It's easier for children. There's also a wildlife preserve where you may find turtles, lizards, bald eagles, and other animals. The trails lead to the river with small sandy beaches for children to hunt for seashells.

2. History: The property belonged to the Chapman family since 1751. The family has ties to several Founding Fathers. There's a historic mansion on the property restored (tours are offered). There are several old buildings abandoned and worth exploring.

3. Architecture: The mansion is beautiful and was used during the Civil War by the Federal government. The back porch offers stunning views of the Potomac River.

There's one thing to be warned- ticks! Bring repellent and stay on the marked trails. We went in May. Venturing off the trail for literally 15 seconds resulted in three ticks on...

We were just out at Chapman State Park with our dog on the Marsh Trail and got approached by 3 French Mastiffs no leash no owner. They cornered us by the water didn't seem to be agressive but also not friendly. As we started to try and calmly walk away, a 4th dog ran up to our dog and started biting his hind then the other dogs started to gang up on him. My partner was trying to protect Finn( our dog) when their owner came up and tried to get his dogs off us. He didn't even apologize ask if our dog was OK and really didn't say anything to us but " we were just at the dog park why are you acting like this?". If anyone knows this guy please tell him if you have 4 100+ pound mastiffs do not let them run around without leashes and control of them. Quite frankly, we were lucky to get out without serious damage to us or our dog, puncture wounds on Finn will need medical treatment. I will now be bringing bear spray and a thick stick along for my Hikes at Chapman. Be careful...

Our family photographer chose this spot to take outdoor Christmas photos and it was picturesque and natural. Be advised it is an extremely long walk to the historic plantation house and view of the water. (Not really accessible for elderly.) Also ....parents....lots of places to easily lose sight of quick little ones as you can be on one side of house as they go to other and under the porch or down the hill or into the woods. Wear running shoes and it could be great family fun though. Amazing and quiet.... almost hallowed spot to enjoy nature and contemplate lives of slaves in historic southern Maryland. Beautiful gravel tree lined lane made perfect backdrop for beautiful portraits. We cannot wait to visit in...