Paddle the calm Little Blackwater River with Blackwater Adventures and encounter bald eagles, herons, and the rare Delmarva Fox Squirrel. Convenient rentals and easy access make it a perfect day on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–8 hours
Fitness Level
Basic fitness needed to balance and paddle; suitable for beginners and families.
Wildlife
History
The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge established in 1933 protects one of the largest freshwater tidal marsh habitats on the East Coast.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to respect wildlife habitats and adhere to Leave No Trace principles to protect this sensitive refuge ecosystem.
Blackwater Adventures
Paddle the calm Little Blackwater River with Blackwater Adventures and encounter bald eagles, herons, and the rare Delmarva Fox Squirrel. Convenient rentals and easy access make it a perfect day on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
Blackwater Adventures is an outdoor recreation provider based in Cambridge, Maryland, offering guided tours, equipment rentals, and specialty experiences on and near the Little Blackwater River and Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge.
The company operates guided kayak tours, self-guided paddles, bike tours, canoe and kayak rentals, fishing kayak rentals, stand-up paddleboard rentals, and multi-day non-motorized rentals. Blackwater Adventures also offers powerboat multi-day rentals, parking/launch options, off-site rentals, and curated experiences such as a Crab Feast and winery kayak and bike tours at Layton’s Chance Winery.
Guided options include a signature Little Blackwater River Kayak Tour that focuses on paddling technique, local history, and wildlife viewing, plus a Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Bike Tour led by experienced guides. The Transquaking River Self-Guided Kayak Tour provides shuttle transportation and a bridge-to-bridge route through brackish swampland and forest. Rental inventory includes on-site kayaks, canoes, bikes, stand-up paddleboards, and a 19-foot Triumph 170 bay boat with a 115 hp outboard for multi-day trips.
Blackwater Adventures emphasizes easy access to equipment, wildlife viewing opportunities—such as bald eagles, herons, otters, and the Delmarva fox squirrel—and excursions tailored to group needs. The business serves locals and visitors in Dorchester County who seek nature-based recreation, fishing, or seasonal seafood experiences. Booking details, safety equipment, and shuttle logistics are provided with each trip.
Reservations accommodate solo paddlers, families, and small groups, with custom itineraries available for special requests, education programs, and corporate outings when scheduled in advance through the reservation system or by phone. Year-round seasonal scheduling options are available upon request.
Location
Cambridge, MD
Operating in Dorchester County
Tours Offered
17 experiences
Guided, self-guided, and rentals
Wildlife Access
Blackwater Refuge
Eagles, herons, otters often seen
Boat Rentals
Triumph 170
19' bay boat with 115 hp
Reserve guided tours, rentals, or the Crab Feast—easy online booking and clear safety guidance ensure a smooth experience.
Arrive early for wildlife sightings
Morning paddling increases chances to see bald eagles and active waterfowl before midday heat.
Wear a life jacket at all times
Even in calm water, personal flotation devices are required and provided with rentals for safety.
Check tide and wind conditions
River currents and wind can vary; calm wind days offer easier paddling and clearer wildlife viewing.
Bring insect repellent
Wetland areas often harbor mosquitoes, particularly near dusk and dawn during warmer months.
Water-resistant sunscreen
Protects skin from sun exposure during extended daylight hours on open water.
summer
Insect repellent
Helps prevent bites from mosquitoes and other insects common near wetlands.
spring
Quick-dry clothing
Keeps paddlers comfortable by drying quickly after splashes or sweat.
summer
Light waterproof jacket
Provides wind and rain protection during cooler, damp conditions.
fall