California, MD, is an unincorporated community in St. Mary’s County with a population of roughly 13,000 residents. The area developed gradually through the nineteenth and twentieth centuries as farmland and waterfront properties gave way to residential neighborhoods and commercial corridors. The community’s name predates 1897 and is not connected to the Gold Rush or westward expansion. One long-standing local account traces the name to a family who relocated from the state of California and built a home using materials brought from the West, referring to the property as the California Farmstead. Over time, the name became associated with the surrounding area and remained in use as development expanded.

One of the strongest influences on the community is Patuxent River Naval Air Station, located just north of California. The base supports a large population of military personnel, civilian employees, and contractors, creating consistent weekday activity that affects traffic patterns, housing demand, and local businesses. St. Mary’s Regional Airport supports private aviation, flight training, and regional travel.

Food options here have a down-home feel. Mission BBQ is a regular stop for smoked brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and classic sides, with steady lunch and early-evening crowds tied to nearby offices and families. The Beanery Café & Bakery fills a different role, drawing morning and midday traffic for espresso drinks, breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and quick lunches that fit easily into work and school schedules. Thai Inter remains a familiar option for sit-down meals and takeout, serving curries, noodle dishes, and stir-fried entrées that many residents rotate into weekly routines.

Outdoor space remains part of regular movement through the area. Myrtle Point Park sits along the Patuxent River and offers walking paths, picnic tables, and fishing access that see frequent use, especially during warmer months and evening hours. Access points to the Three Notch Trail near California support walking and biking along a paved route that connects neighborhoods and nearby communities, allowing residents to stay active without relying on busy roadways.

Have some fun at Escape From the Past, a local escape room destination, offering themed puzzle rooms used for group outings, celebrations, and weekend activities. The Patuxent River Naval Air Museum is located just a short drive from California. The museum features historic aircraft, flight simulators, interactive exhibits, and rotating displays focused on naval aviation and testing history tied directly to the nearby base.

Community activities abound. The St. Mary’s County Fair remains one of the most active annual events, drawing residents from California and surrounding towns for rides, food vendors, agricultural exhibits, and live entertainment. Gingerbread Lane hosts recurring holiday activities that draw families with young children, including themed events built around seasonal décor, crafts, and interactive displays. One of the most popular offerings is the Noon New Year’s Party for children aged three and under, which includes live music, disco lighting, a balloon drop, juice toasts, treats, and hands-on participation from parents. 

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