The Mystery of the Great Pocomoke Swamp

Introduction To Quest

Your Park Quest adventure at Pocomoke River State Park will lead you down the river and into a scene straight from prehistoric times as you attempt to discover what is hiding in the swamp. You will travel through areas that appear to be untouched by humankind as you journey along collecting clues to help solve the mystery.

Quest Information

The Park Quest at Pocomoke River State Park will start at the Nature Center located at the Shad Landing Area of Pocomoke River State Park. The nature center will be open and ready to assist park quest teams from Wednesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. The Quest may be completed at other times by appointment only, but must be completed by sunset. To request an appointment please call the park at 410-632-2566. To complete the Quest you will walk approximately one mile and canoe another mile. Quest teams will receive their detective bags in the nature center than use a map located in the bag to proceed down a trail to the boathouse. Along the trail, teams will search for clues as they try to unravel the mystery of the swamp. Upon arrival at the boathouse, teams will be provided with a canoe, lifejackets, paddles, and basic safety instructions before heading towards the river. When the Quest is completed, teams will head back to the nature center to receive their stamp.

Park Quest Worksheet

Print the Park Quest maps and worksheets here.

Park Information

The scenic Pocomoke River is the backdrop for the Shad Landing area of Pocomoke River State Park. Mature stands of bald cypress trees surrounded by their protruding knees form a mysterious, primeval, yet idyllic setting for a paddle through the swamp. Bald eagles, osprey and other birds of prey are often seen nesting in the top of the bald cypress trees. The common prothonotary warbler builds nests in the cavities of decaying cypress knees. Largemouth bass, trout, perch and bluegills swim through the dark water of the Pocomoke River. The forest environment of the swamp provides a rich habitat for a variety of both small and large mammals. Today the swamp is home to a plethora of animal and plant species that find the swamp a useful place to hide and make their homes.

The area around Pocomoke River State Park also boasts of a rich history of human interactions. Records indicate that the Pocomoke, Nanticoke, and Nassawattox tribes inhabited the area more than 10, 000 years ago. In fact, the name Pocomoke is believed to be an Algonquian word meaning “broken” or “pierced” ground. By the mid 1800’s the largely inaccessible swamp had become an important link in the underground railroad used by freedom seeking slaves and their guides. (As well as a number of miscreants, including deserting troops from the north and south, outlaws, and bootleggers!) The state assumed control of the land in the mid 1950’s.

Pocomoke River State Park - Shad Landing
3461 Worcester Highway
Snow Hill MD 21863
410-632-2566

Directions to Pocomoke River State Park

Pocomoke River State Park is located in Worcester County. The Shad Landing area of Pocomoke River State Park is located on Rt. 113 between Snow Hill to the north and Pocomoke City to the south.

• From points south: Take Rt. 13 north to Pocomoke City; turn right on to Rt. 113 (towards Berlin); nine miles on the left – watch for signs.

• From points north: from Salisbury, take Rt. 12 (Snow Hill Road) to Snow Hill; at stop light turn right on Business 113; take Business 113 to Rt. 113 south; one mile on the right – watch for signs.

• Make a reservation to stay at the park.