Bear Island — apatite rockhounding site near Maryland, MD
ApatiteMDFee varies

Bear Island

Rockhounding site in Maryland, Maryland · Other

Bear Island is a apatite rockhounding site near Maryland, MD. Fee varies. Best season: Spring through fall.

Typical season: Spring through fall

Key facts

Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.

Specimen type
Apatite
Primary specimens
Apatite, Epidote, Amphibolite, Sphene, Zircon
Fee status
Fee varies
Nearest town
Maryland
State
Maryland
Coordinates
38.97403, -77.20274
Best season
Spring through fall; confirm seasonal road access
Access difficulty
Moderate; remote roads possible
Camping
Dispersed camping may be available nearby; verify land rules
Activities
Rock and mineral collecting
Facilities
Maryland regional services
Last updated
July 5, 2026

What to pack for Bear Island

Gear we compare for other trips like this one — tools, safety, and the hike in.

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The experience

  • Best time to visitSpring through fall; confirm seasonal road access
  • AccessModerate; remote roads possible
  • FacilitiesMaryland regional services
  • Camping nearbyDispersed camping may be available nearby; verify land rules

Things you need to take to Bear Island

Best overallSafety Glasses

DEWALT DPG82 Concealer Safety Glasses

Buy two pairs — one lives in your pack permanently.

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Best overallSpecimen Bags & Wrap

SE Specimen Storage Bags 10-Pack

The basic system every collector should have in their pack.

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Best overallField Backpacks

Osprey Talon 22 Backpack

The pack to save for if you collect more than a few times a year.

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Best overallKnee Pads for Digging

NoCry Professional Construction Knee Pads

Buy once — your knees will notice by lunch.

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Report an access change

Field conditions change. If this site is closed, claimed, flooded, or the fee has changed, tell us — we update listings with community tips and desk verification.

Email a tip

Include the date you visited and any land-manager contact. Do not share private gate codes.

Map & location

Open in MapsGet directions38.97403, -77.20274

Sources & updates

Last reviewed

Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Use Report an access change on this page or send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.

Planning a trip to Bear Island?

Browse more rockhounding sites in Maryland or explore the full directory.

Safety notice: Field and weather conditions change with weather, season, and field conditions. Verify current conditions with local land managers before you go. Collect at your own risk — there are rarely rangers or land managers at these sites.