For the Public

SERC's trails and dinghy dock are open to the public Monday-Saturday, 8:00-5:30pm, except for federal holidays. Check here for the new COVID-19 Visitor Guide and updated trail map. 

What You Can Do: We have four miles of trails for hiking or biking, and a floating dock where you can launch a personal canoe or kayak to paddle along the Rhode River. Maps for hiking and paddling are available at our Reed Education Center. 

Safety Precautions: Before arriving, please do a self-health check by answering these health screening questions.For safety reasons, flip flops are not allowed on campus. When hiking, please be aware of poison ivy and follow precautions for ticks.

No swimming: Sadly we aren't able to accommodate swimmers and sunbathers, as our dock and seining beach frequently host school field trips and other educational programs.

Pet Policy: We love animals, but we ask that you leave your pets at home because we are an active research facility and a wildlife sanctuary.

For Boaters: We have a floating dock where you may tie up your canoe, kayak or dinghy. Motorized boats more than 15 feet long are not permitted, so please anchor out and come ashore by dinghy if you have a larger vessel. You  may not launch any motorized craft from our docks; however, you may launch a non-motorized canoe or kayak to explore our water trails.  The launch fee is $5.00 per kayak, payable at the Reed Center.  Please note that due to limited parking and our mission to preserve the area, we can only accommodate small groups.  Please call the main number with questions and please alert us if you plan to bring multiple kayaks, due to limited parking: 443-482-2200.

Download Canoe & Kayak Trail Guide

Public Programs and Calendar
Check out our calendar for a full list of activities the public can do at SERC.

For Visiting Scientists, Fellows, and Interns

SERC hosts visiting scientists, fellows, and interns who come to the center to participate in research. Visit our research labs for collaborative research opportunities, or check out our internships and fellowships. 

For visitors who need to SCUBA dive for their research, please see the Smithsonian Dive Program in our Facilities page.

Seeking Housing Information?  
Check out our Housing Facilities information on our Facilities page.

Meeting or Conference Hosting
Looking to Host a Meeting or Conference at SERC?  Please see the Meeting and Conference section on our Facilities page.