Polar Bear Plunge Returns To Sandy Point, Other Winter Events Planned Around Maryland

MARYLAND — The Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge will return to Sandy Point State Park later this month. Here's everything you need to know about this classic event and other winter activities planned around the state.

Patch recently partnered with several local organizations to bring you their latest news. This guest contribution comes from National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways and Chesapeake Conservancy. Here's what Jody Hedeman Couser submitted to help you explore the Chesapeake Bay:

"Polar Bear Plunge

The MSP Polar Bear Plunge is a Maryland tradition. For the past 25 years, thousands of plungers have jumped into the icy waters of the Chesapeake Bay all in support of Special Olympics Maryland. The Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge is a fundraising event in which individuals pledge $75 or more for the chance to plunge into the Chesapeake Bay in support of 6,102 Special Olympics athletes who train and compete year-round throughout Maryland. The Virtual Plunge is here to stay in addition to the historic in-person Plunge event. Individuals interested in taking the plunge can register as an individual, or join a team, or create their own team. Jan. 28th and Jan. 29th is for the super plunge. The police plunge will take place on Feb. 4 and the corporate plunge is on Feb. 5. Sandy Point State Park, Annapolis, MD. More information and registration."

"Skunk Cabbage Swamp Stomp

Learn about this unusual wetland inhabitant with Jug Bay’s volunteer Siobhan Percey who has studied skunk cabbage extensively. Walk off-trail to visit this fascinating plant, in bloom, along the swamp edges. Wear boots that can get wet. Ages: 12+; $5 per person, entrance fee waived. Jan. 15, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm; Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, Lothian, MD. More information and registration."

"Constellation Campfire and Full Moon Hike

Settle around a cozy campfire for starry night tales and constellation spotting. Roasted treats will be provided. Ages 6 to adult, under 16 with an adult. $8 per person. Jan. 13, 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm; Anita C. Leight Estuary Center, Abingdon, MD. More information and registration. On. Jan. 16 Leight Park will host a Full Moon Hike and Campfire nighttime adventure to see what critters are doing after dark in the full moon. Jan. 16, 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm. Registration and more information."

"Three Hibernal Hikes in Harford County

Blogger Saki is a big fan of winter hiking and three of his favorite destinations for short, scenic wintry hikes are within a two-mile radius of one another in Harford County, Maryland: Eden Mill Park, King and Queen Seat, and Kilgore Falls, with the latter two located in Rocks State Park. The hikes are a great combination of terrain and scenery – from rocky outcroppings to an easy creekside meander and a beautiful waterfall. Read more about Three Hibernal Hikes in Harford County."

"Tips for Inviting Wildlife Into Your Backyard

The Maryland DNR offers fact sheets on how landowners can enhance their habitat for wildlife by creating food, water and shelter resources. They have put together tips about native plants, animals and habitat-enhancing activities, including nest box building plans for many Mid-Atlantic birds, how to create backyard ponds, what plants and shrubs are best for wildlife, how to create wildscapes, the importance of preserving snags and logs, and more. Inviting Wildlife Into Your Backyard."

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