Maryland State Maps

These maps show Maryland's Counties, Cities, Federal Areas, Physiographic, and Ecoregions.






Maryland County Map

The Counties of Maryland and Their Name Origins

Maryland County Sizes Map

Maryland State County Sizes Map

Smallest County in Maryland State

Howard County: 251 sq miles

Largest County in Maryland State

Frederick County: 665 sq miles

Mean and Median Area of Counties in Maryland State

Mean Area: 361 sq miles

Median Area: 362 sq miles

Maryland Major Cities Map

Major Cities of Maryland State and Their Locations

In Maryland, major cities are located near the Chesapeake Bay, Potomac River, and key historical trade routes. These cities have developed due to their proximity to waterways and industrial growth.

1. Baltimore

Baltimore: Maryland's largest city and economic hub, Baltimore is a major port city located along the Patapsco River, part of the Chesapeake Bay. Its Inner Harbor area has transformed from an industrial center into a cultural destination.

2. Annapolis

Annapolis: The state capital of Maryland, located along the Chesapeake Bay. Annapolis is known for its historical maritime culture and is home to the U.S. Naval Academy.

3. Rockville

Rockville: Located in central Maryland, Rockville is part of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and has grown rapidly as a residential and commercial center.

4. Frederick

Frederick: Nestled in the northern part of the state, Frederick serves as an important historical and commercial crossroads and is known for its colonial-era architecture and Civil War history.

5. Hagerstown

Hagerstown: A city located in western Maryland, Hagerstown is known for its transportation hubs and the surrounding Cumberland Valley.




Maryland State Shaded Relief Map

Topographic Tour of Maryland

Maryland's geography features a diverse range of landforms, from the Appalachian Mountains in the west to the Coastal Plains in the east. This small state is often referred to as "America in Miniature" due to its variety of terrains.

1. Coastal Plains

The eastern part of Maryland is dominated by the flat Coastal Plains, which include tidal wetlands, sandy beaches, and large estuaries like the Chesapeake Bay. This region is rich in agriculture and fishing due to its fertile soils and proximity to water.

2. Piedmont Plateau

The Piedmont Plateau forms the central portion of Maryland, where rolling hills transition between the low Coastal Plain and the high Appalachian regions. This area is characterized by fertile farmland, small rivers, and the state’s major urban centers.

3. Appalachian Mountains

Western Maryland is home to the Appalachian Mountains, where the rugged terrain includes the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains. This area is known for its forests, streams, and scenic views, as well as recreational activities such as hiking and skiing.




Maryland Physiographic Regions Map

Physiographic Regions of Maryland

APPALACHIAN PLATEAUS, ALLEGHENY MOUNTAIN

This region includes the rugged terrain of the Appalachian Plateau and the Allegheny Mountains in western Maryland. The area features dense forests, steep valleys, and is part of the larger Appalachian Range.

BLUE RIDGE, NORTHERN

The Blue Ridge Mountain region stretches across northern Maryland and includes sharp ridges and rolling valleys. It is known for its scenic vistas and recreational opportunities, particularly in areas like Catoctin Mountain Park.

COASTAL PLAIN, EMBAYED

The Coastal Plain is a low-lying region along the eastern shore of Maryland. It is dominated by wetlands, tidal estuaries, and bays, including the Chesapeake Bay, which defines much of the state's geography.

PIEDMONT, PIEDMONT LOWLANDS

This region is a transitional zone between the Coastal Plains and the Appalachian Mountains, featuring rolling hills and fertile farmland. It is home to many of Maryland’s largest cities, including Baltimore and Frederick.

PIEDMONT, PIEDMONT UPLAND

The Piedmont Upland, located farther west than the lowlands, is characterized by more rugged terrain and higher elevations. It includes wooded areas, rolling hills, and several important watersheds.

VALLEY AND RIDGE, MIDDLE

This physiographic region is located in western Maryland and includes valleys and ridges running parallel to the Appalachian Mountains. The area is known for its scenic landscapes and agricultural significance.

Federal Lands in Maryland

Notable Federal Lands: Some of the Largest and Most Fascinating Destinations in Maryland

1. Assateague Island National Seashore

Assateague Island National Seashore spans both Maryland and Virginia. It is known for its pristine beaches, salt marshes, and wild horses that roam the island. The seashore offers camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

2. Antietam National Battlefield

Antietam National Battlefield is a historic Civil War site near Sharpsburg, Maryland. It commemorates the Battle of Antietam, the bloodiest single-day battle in American history. Visitors can tour the battlefield and learn about the pivotal role it played in U.S. history.

3. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

The C&O Canal runs along the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. to Cumberland, Maryland. This national historical park preserves the canal's towpath and locks, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and historical tours.

4. Greenbelt Park

Located near Washington, D.C., Greenbelt Park offers a peaceful retreat for camping, hiking, and picnicking. It is a forested park with many recreational amenities close to urban areas.

5. Patuxent Research Refuge

Patuxent Research Refuge is the only national wildlife refuge established for wildlife research. It covers more than 12,000 acres and supports a wide range of habitats and species, making it a critical area for conservation and research.

Ecoregions of Maryland

Ecoregions of Maryland

Allegheny Mountains Section

The Allegheny Mountains section encompasses the western portion of Maryland, characterized by rugged terrain, dense forests, and high elevations. The region is part of the Appalachian Mountain Range and is vital for wildlife habitat and conservation.

Blue Ridge Mountains Section

The Blue Ridge section includes part of the Appalachian Range and features forested ridges and scenic valleys. It is a popular area for outdoor recreation and is home to diverse wildlife.

Middle Atlantic Coastal Plain Section

The Middle Atlantic Coastal Plain runs along Maryland's eastern shore, characterized by flat terrain, wetlands, and rich estuaries. The Chesapeake Bay is the defining feature of this ecoregion.

Northern Appalachian Piedmont Section

This ecoregion encompasses rolling hills, farmland, and forested areas in central Maryland. The region is known for its fertile soils and proximity to the major cities of Baltimore and Washington, D.C.

Northern Ridge & Valley Section

The Northern Ridge and Valley section is located in western Maryland. This ecoregion features parallel ridges and valleys, with a mix of forests and agricultural areas. It is also a critical area for water resources.

Southern Appalachian Piedmont Section

This region includes the southern part of Maryland's Piedmont area, characterized by rolling hills and valleys, forests, and agricultural landscapes. It is an important region for both farming and conservation efforts.

Upper Atlantic Coastal Plain Section

This ecoregion is part of the larger Atlantic Coastal Plain and features flat terrain, wetlands, and estuaries. The Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries dominate the landscape, providing critical habitats for aquatic and terrestrial species.