Cell service can be spotty in this area, so it’s a good idea to download the cache information to an offline list before heading out. The geocache container is tethered to a post on the boardwalk near the The “Battle” Story sign. In order to open the lock on the container, explore the museum and boardwalk to collect six numbers.
To begin, enter the nature center to collect the following information:
Enter the small world of NATURE AT NIGHT.
A = # of flying squirrels + 1
Find WHAT’S YOUR WINGSPAN?
B, C and D = Wingspan of Canada Goose (in.) minus Wingspan of Great Horned Owl (in.) minus Wingspan of Eastern Bluebird (in.).
Find the BOARDWALK and experience the Cypress Swamp in a counterclockwise fashion. As you head down the stairs to reach the boardwalk, take a sharp right midway, to head in the correct direction. (Trailhead 1)
EF = The two-digit number that appears on the 2nd yellow bird tag attached to the boardwalk after you pass the “Natural Partners” sign. (See waypoint, if needed)
G = A * 3
H = Wingspan of Eastern Bluebird (in.) - 4
Final Location: N 38° 29.AGH ′ W 76° 35.5HG′
LOCK CODE: AB-CD-EF
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If you are not able to access the Nature Center, walk behind the Nature Center and find the bird enclosures.
On the BARRED OWL sign:
AB = lifespan of a barred owl in the wild + lifespan of a barred owl in captivity
On the EASTERN SCREECH-OWL sign
C = lifespan of an eastern screech owl in captivity (minus) 15
D = C
EF = The two-digit number that appears on the 2nd yellow bird tag attached to the boardwalk after you pass the “Natural Partners” sign. (See waypoint, if needed)
G = A * 3
H = E + F
Final Location: N 38° 29.AGH ′ W 76° 35.5HG′
LOCK CODE: AB-CD-EF
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Park Hours:
Monday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Sunday: 1-4:30 p.m.
Memorial Day-Labor Day
Monday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday: 1-6 p.m.
NOTICE: No walk ins allowed when park gates are closed. Gate closes 30 minutes before park closes.
No pets allowed.
Hidden in the forests of Calvert County, Battle Creek Cypress Swamp is one of Maryland’s most unusual and enchanting natural areas. Located near the town of Prince Frederick, the preserve protects a rare bald cypress swamp ecosystem that feels more like something you would expect to find deep in the southern coastal plains than in the Mid-Atlantic.
Towering bald cypress trees rise from the dark, slow-moving waters of the swamp, their distinctive “knees” protruding from the mud and water around them. These ancient trees, some estimated to be several centuries old, create a peaceful and almost mysterious landscape where sunlight filters through tall trunks and reflects off the still water below.
At the heart of the preserve is the Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary, managed by the Calvert County Natural Resources Division. A raised boardwalk trail allows visitors to wander safely into the swamp without disturbing the fragile environment. The trail winds through dense wetland forest, offering close-up views of the cypress trees, seasonal wildflowers, mosses, and the unique plant life that thrives in this wet habitat.
Wildlife is abundant in the swamp. Visitors often spot woodpeckers, barred owls, salamanders, frogs, turtles, and a variety of songbirds. During warmer months, the swamp comes alive with the sounds of insects and amphibians, while autumn transforms the cypress needles into warm shades of copper and orange before they fall.
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp is considered the northernmost natural stand of bald cypress trees on the East Coast, making it a significant ecological site. Its protected environment helps preserve a habitat that once covered much larger portions of the Atlantic coastal plain.
Whether you're visiting to enjoy a quiet walk, photograph the striking trees and reflections, or simply experience a landscape unlike anywhere else in Maryland, Battle Creek Cypress Swamp offers a peaceful and fascinating glimpse into a rare and ancient ecosystem. 🌿🌲
Cache Across Maryland 2026.
This is one of the caches placed for Cache Across Maryland 2026. This year you must find all ten caches prior to the picnic held on Saturday, May 9, 2026 in order to qualify for a free Maryland Geocaching Society CAM geocoin. You must attend the picnic to get your coin. After the free coins are given out you will be able to buy coins while they last.
Make note of the code word found inside each cache container. You must enter all the words into an online decoder in order to print your CAM certificate as well as print a claim form to submit and receive your geocoin at the picnic. More info on CAM is available here.
