Turner's Creek

Turner's Creek. From the headwaters near the Route 301 Bridge to the river's mouth between Grove Point and Howell Point, the Sassafras River Water Trail winds past forested shorelines, bucolic farms, and high sandy cliffs for 18 miles before reaching its confluence with the Chesapeake Bay. The Sassafras River Water Trail follows parts of the routes of both the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Tail and the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail, managed by the National Park Service. It is also part of a system of water trails in the Chesapeake Bay Gateways and Watertrails Network. . . Turner's Creek Landing . Turner's Creek Landing is the premiere access point for the lower Sassafras River. This is an excellent location to launch canoes, kayaks, and power boats. Historically, Turner's Creek was the site of a small community that featured a granary and several modest homes. In the summer the creek is dominated by the regionally endangered American lotus, whose 8" flowers are the largest in North America. . . Suggested Routes For Paddlers . Lloyd Creek: Heading downriver from Turner's Creek brings paddlers past high forested bluffs frequented by bald eagles, ospreys, and blue heron. The mouth of Lloyd Creek is three miles distant, and the creek itself is pristine and worth exploring. Those with a shuttle can continue for 2 miles to the landing at Betterton or return to Turner's Creek for a 6-mile round trip. . . Turner's Creek: The main branch of Turner's Creek extends inland for over one mile and contains several bald eagle nests and a blue heron rookery. From mid-June through October, the creek is overgrown with American lotus and some sections become non-navigable. The lotus' peak bloom occurs from mid-July through mid-August. . . Paddling & Boating Safety . Safety should be your primary concern on the water - always remember to: . - Wear a USCG approved life jacket and follow all regulations. . - Leave your travel plans with a friend / loved one. . - Check the weather and tides before you leave. . . Protecting the Sassafras River . When enjoying the Sassafras River please dispose of all trash in proper receptacles, respect private property and the privacy of others, and leave the natural environment as you found it. For more information about protecting the Sassafras River contact the Sassafras River Association or visit: . www.sassafrasriver.org . to learn more about the Sassafras River Water Trail visit www.srwt.org