MARYLAND - When exploring the diverse geography of Maryland's 23 counties, one stands out for its compact size. Tucked away on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, Calvert County holds the distinction of being the state's smallest county by land area, encompassing just 213 square miles.
Maryland's Smallest County: The Peninsular Gem of Calvert
Shaped like a peninsula, this scenic county is bordered by the Chesapeake Bay to the east and the Patuxent River to the west. This proximity to water has profoundly shaped its history, culture, and economy.
A Quick Note on "Smallest"
The question of Maryland's smallest county can be a bit tricky. Here's a quick breakdown:
- Smallest by Land Area: Calvert County (213 sq mi). This is the most common way counties are measured.
- Smallest by Total Area: Howard County (254 sq mi). While slightly larger in land area, it has very little water area compared to Calvert, making its total footprint smaller.
- Independent City: Baltimore City is geographically much smaller (about 81 sq mi of land) but operates as an independent city, a separate legal entity from any county.
More Than Just Its Size
Despite its small dimensions, Calvert County is rich with attractions and character. It is famed for the massive Calvert Cliffs, which tower over the Chesapeake Bay and are a world-renowned source of Miocene-era fossils. Visitors often flock to Calvert Cliffs State Park to hunt for ancient shark teeth washed ashore.
The county seat is the town of Prince Frederick, and its southern tip is home to the picturesque waterfront community of Solomons Island. From its vital role in early colonial history to its modern-day appeal as a place of natural beauty, Calvert County proves that great things truly do come in small packages.
What is The Smallest County in Maryland?
What is The Smallest County in Maryland?
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