Point Lookout Light stands at the southern tip of Maryland’s western shore where the Potomac River meets the Chesapeake Bay. Built in 1830, it served as a vital navigational aid for nearly two centuries. The lighthouse is perhaps best known for its haunted reputation — the grounds once housed a Civil War prison camp where thousands of Confederate soldiers perished. The lighthouse is no longer active and is not open to the public, though the exterior can be viewed from Point Lookout State Park. Golden hour and sunset offer the best photography conditions, with dramatic water-meets-sky backdrops. Nearby, visitors can enjoy the state park’s beaches, fishing piers, camping, and the Civil War museum. A compelling stop for history and lighthouse enthusiasts alike.

Explore Nearby

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