Explore By State

A group paddles canoes through lilly pads.

Kelsey Everett

The Chesapeake Bay watershed spans more than 64,000 square miles across and includes parts of six states – Delaware, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia – as well as the entirety of Washington, D.C. The Chesapeake Bay and its vast watershed are home to many special places filled with rich history, marvels of nature, beautiful scenery, and hundreds upon hundreds of opportunities to explore and enjoy.

Each watershed state – plus Washington, D.C. - is home to many unique Chesapeake Gateways sites, areas, trails, and more. To learn more about the special places in a state, click on a corresponding image below.








Last updated: September 20, 2023