Anchorage

Mattawomen Creek

Shelter: NW, N, NE, W, E, S, SE
Seabed: mud
Anchoring: Allowed

Anchorage in a tidal Potomac River tributary near Indian Head, Maryland, around 30 miles south of Washington.

Water

Guide

Approach and anchoring

Turn east off the Potomac channel near red mark 46 and head for Mattawoman green 1, favouring the southern shore to hold 9 metres of water at low water. The creek has three coves, of which the first two are usable by keelboats. Strong winds blowing out toward the Potomac can drop the water level noticeably.

Practical

Anchor in 6 to 9 feet over mud, holding rated good. The inner coves give the best shelter from wind and waves. Fresh water is available at Pilot House Marina and Hampton's Landing Marina, both around 3.7 miles to the north-west.

Ashore

Mattawoman Creek is listed by Maryland DNR as a centre of biodiversity, with tidal marshes and submerged grass beds along an undisturbed forested shoreline. Kayak launching is possible from Mattingly Park in Indian Head.

Key facts

Type: Anchorage
Coordinates: 38.56332, -77.19620 (38°33.80'N 77°11.77'W)
Country: United States
Shelter: Sheltered from north-west, north, north-east, west, east, south, south-east winds
Seabed: mud
Anchoring: Allowed
Services: Water
Updated: July 7, 2026