Standing on the shores of the Potomac River in Piney Point, Maryland, this historic lighthouse was built in 1836 to guide vessels navigating the lower Potomac. It served as a retreat for President James Buchanan, earning the area the nickname “the President’s summer White House.” Decommissioned and no longer active, the lighthouse is not open to public climbing, though the surrounding Piney Point Lighthouse Museum and Historic Park offers exhibits on maritime history and a decommissioned U.S. Navy submarine. The best photography comes during golden hour, when warm light reflects off the river behind the tower. Nearby, visitors can explore St. Mary’s County wineries and historic St. Mary’s City.

Explore Nearby

• St. Mary’s River State Park — State Park in Maryland
• Point Lookout State Park — State Park in Maryland
• Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway — Scenic Byway in Maryland
• Douglas Point Special Recreation Management Area — Public Land in Maryland
• Meadowood Special Recreation Management Area — Public Land in Virginia