5 Best Maryland Lake Vacation Destinations. The trails surrounding Lake Needwood offer picturesque views of the lake and it surrounding hills. Swimming is not allowed in the water, while camping is not allowed around it. We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. Jennings Randolph Lake is also home to Shaw Beach, which is a popular summer destination. Cool off in the river at Patapsco Valley State Park. The lake has an exciting and unique area for swimming featuring thrilling waterslides and platforms. Learn more about fishing in Howard County here SANCTION: Unofficial: FEE: Yes: FACILITIES (at lake) Toilet, Changing room, … Today, the lake is a prime location for fishing. Page 1 / 15 Beach Location Water Quality Water Quality; 10th Street Ocean City . Miles of hiking trails wander through Greenbrier State Park, including the Appalachian Trail. PHOTO OF LAKE. The lake itself is a great place to go fishing for bass and trout, as well as other fish. This sprawling park has an abundance of areas, including the pictured Hammerman area. This spot is located on Kent Island and has a great view of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Even though our lakes are all man-made, they’re still incredibly beautiful, especially when it comes to our largest. Generally, the Maryland Park Service, a unit of and under the authority of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), is the governing body for these parks, although some have been turned over to local authorities. Deep Creek Lake is a 3,900-acre lake near Oakland, Maryland. You'll find showers near the beach, and you might want to bring a picnic to enjoy a meal at one of the picnic tables. Ocean City, Maryland: Historical Status. There are walking trails surrounding the lake that give visitors the opportunity to see wildlife. No gas motors are allowed on the lake, but all other boats are. This fresh water lake is great for pedal boating, rowing, canoeing and kayaking. MARYLAND SWIMMING HOLES; Click here to see the home page and learn about swimming holes in other states. The 1,578 hectare lake is not only a great spot for recreational activities, but also quite spectacular thanks to its surrounding forested mountains. Fish commonly caught in the lake include largemouth bass, rock bass, northern pike, brown trout and walleye. Contact: Thank you! Lake Anna; Louisa, Spotsylvania and Orange Counties . These 10 Gorgeous Lakes In Maryland Are Demanding Your Attention. Listed below are 10 of the most gorgeous lakes in Maryland, that you won’t regret checking out. Boonsboro, Maryland This man-made lake is near the Appalachian Trail and features crystal-clear water on a 42-acre site. The company created the man-made lake during the city’s development. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Swimming and boating are allowed in the warmer months, while in the winter the lake is a hot spot for ice skating. Swimming in falls is not officially sanctioned. And as always, leave no trace behind to keep this natural wonder picturesque. Most of this is done from the Smith Mountain Lake State Park that sits on the north shore of the lake. In fact, it is nicknamed ‘America in Miniature’ because it has such an eclectic landscape. Still, it is a great place to spend an afternoon any day of the year. Fishing supplies can be purchased right in the park at a concession stand. 14039 Catoctin Hollow Rd., Thurmont. The northern beach is usually the least crowded. If you like wacky and fun, you can’t go wrong when you visit Six Flags America in Bowie. One reason the lake is so dangerous is the number of deaths that occur in it per year. Broadford Lake (Oakland) Deep Creek Lake (located between Meadow Mountain, and Accident) Herrington Lake (within Herringon Manor State Park) The Town of Daniels is an old, abandoned town located in what is now known as the Patapsco Valley State Park, which extends around the Patapsco River, near Ellicott City, Maryland. Swimming is not allowed in the water, while camping is not allowed around it. Maryland lakes for vacation and recreation. Over 11.5 miles in length, Deep Creek Lake covers approximately 3,900 acres, and is the largest inland body of water in Maryland. The man-made Lake Artemesia is named after Artemesia N. Drefs, who donated land to preserve open spaces. Tidal beaches remain open for swimming. Named after wilderness activist, Bernard Frank, this 22 hectare lake was originally built for flood control, as well as for recreational purposes. Take care when you're in the water as there are no lifeguards on duty. ... you'll find several state parks with access to swimmable lakes and sandy beaches. COVID-19 Update: Swimming at Lake Anna is currently off-limits. Picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, boating and hunting are all allowed here. Camping is the best accommodation option on the island, so come prepared. The Ranger Station is at Exit 64 It’s summer, it’s blazing hot, and many of us are looking for places to enjoy the quintessential seasonal activity — swimming! Cascade Lake has fun platforms and a waterslide to keep your experience exciting. With the surrounding mountain views, it's a dreamy spot, indeed. The lake is owned by the city and is home to a firing range that is used exclusively by the Maryland State Police. One of the smallest states in the USA, Maryland boasts a wide range of topography, from sand dunes to rolling mountains. It is also a great place for an afternoon picnic. Part of the Rocky Gap State Park, Lake Habeeb is a 98 hectare reservoir that is nestled against Evitts Mountain. Mid-Atlantic Maryland is full of coves and hikes surrounded by water, making for a great environment for dedicated dog beaches and manicured trails. Little Seneca Lake, Montgomery County Lake Anna. There are also picnic areas, a playground and a snack bar on the shores of the lake. 2. The waterpark features a massive wave pool, perfect for staying cool all day long. Start time varies as the season sunsets change. Clopper Lake 3. In the summer months, it’s ideal for swimming… On the hunt for outdoor adventure in Maryland? Elysium Lake 5. It's also filled with plenty of natural beauty, from the wildlife to the best lakes in Maryland. Fishing is permitted, though you will need a fishing licence. Facebook / Deep Creek Lake Area . It was named after the former town of Triadelphia, which was washed away by a flood. If you’re looking to cool off in the water this summer, head to the following swimming holes in Maryland. You can also enjoy hiking along the four kilometre trail. Beaver Dam Swimming Club. The state is also home to a number of fantastic lakes. Stand underneath a waterfall at this scenic spot, where you can cool off on the hottest days of summer. In the summer months, it’s ideal for swimming… It lies in the Piedmont ecoregion, which is located between the Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic Coastal Plain. With more than 3,100 miles of shoreline, Maryland has plenty of great places to sink your toes into the sand. Triadelphia Reservoir was built in 1943 during the construction of the Brighton Dam. … 25 Most Beautiful Medieval Castles in the World, 30 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in California, 40 Places to See in California Before Your Kids Are All Grown Up, 14 Best Things to do in Rowland Heights (CA), 15 Best Things to Do in Hacienda Heights (CA), 13 Best Things to Do in South Whittier (CA), Loch Raven Reservoir: Jon Bilous / shutterstock, Lake Centennial: Jon Bilous / shutterstock, Jennings Randolph Lake: Joshua Lee Jenkins / shutterstock, Lake Elkhorn: Anton Albert / shutterstock, Lake Kittamaqundi: Jon Bilous / shutterstock. Some parts of it, however, are not parts in which you would like to swim. The bald eagles hunt for fish in the dam’s water, so you can watch them eat. There are mountains, waterways, marshlands and beaches. Just a fun video of family memories here in Deep Creek. The beach offers visitors picnic tables, grills, playgrounds, food concessions, and four picnic pavilions that can be rented. Biking, hiking, fishing and bird watching can all be enjoyed at Liberty Reservoir. All swims are at least one hour, weather permitting. Swimming is not allowed, as the water is used for drinking. The lake is owned by the city and is home to a firing range that is used exclusively by the Maryland … Jennings Randolph Lake is the perfect place to enjoy outdoor recreational activities. The lake is in a secluded area, though there are plenty of spaces in its car park. If you are in Surrounding Lake Artemesia is more than three kilometres of trails that are excellent for hiking and biking. This 24 hectare lake is the main feature at Gilbert Run Park. The falls can be reached via an easy half-mile hiking trail in the park, which also boasts a 44-acre lake with two swimming beaches. Wheatley Lake also has a fishing pier that allows park visitors to fish for bass, trout, bluegill and catfish. Maryland has more to it than highly developed urban areas and suburbs. You might even want to spend a little time searching for shark’s teeth and seashells. Nestled among the hills, this 952-acre lake also features opportunities for swimming, boating, kayaking, and hiking amid a serene sanctuary for birds and animals. Burnt Mills Reservoir 2. Date: May 10-13; Location: Wrightsville Beach, NC; 2018 Weekly Sunset & Sunrise Swims. Beyond their pristine settings and peaceful waters, lakes act like time machines, taking us back to carefree summer days. Many know this spot for its cascading waterfall and hiking opportunities. If you would rather just enjoy the lake’s scenery, relax at a dockside pavilion or at a picnic table. It's also a popular spot for fishing. Deep Creek Lake is Maryland's largest artificial lake, spanning 13 miles with a one-mile beach for visitors to spend the day. Grab your swim suit and sunblock and get ready to cool off in some of the best swimming spots in Maryland. Make it a full day adventure and do some sightseeing in nearby historic Annapolis. Maryland residents $3-$5, out-of-state visitors $5-$7. Tent, cabin & RV camp on private & VA State Parks, on local farms, vineyards & nature preserves. With over 69 miles of shoreline, Deep Creek Lake is Maryland's largest inland body of water. She spends her time chasing around a curious toddler and going on coffee-fueled adventures throughout Maryland. If you’re a history buff, sign up for one of the history floats. Enjoy a 1,500-foot stretch of beach and swimming area on the banks of the Gunpowder River. “ Greenbrier State Park is a public recreation area that offers camping, hunting, mountain biking, picnicking, hiking trails and a 42-acre man-made lake for fishing, boating and swimming. To View Maryland Lakes A-Z, Scroll Down for a Complete List. Stroll the boardwalk and enjoy the low salinity at Betterton Beach. The lake is part of the Lake Artemesia Natural Area, just northeast of Washington DC. From sandy beaches to ancient river swimming holes, you can enjoy these wonderful spots all summer long. Lookout areas provide lovely views of the reservoir and its surroundings. Swimming is great on the island, so is kayaking, crabbing and clamming. (Make sure you cross the swinging bridge in the fall too, because you’ll be blown away by the gorgeous foliage.). From the Atlantic Coast beaches of Ocean City and Assateague, to the shores of the Chesapeake Bay and her tributaries, to spring-fed swimming holes and mountain lakes, Maryland’s sun, surf and sand are waiting for you! The water park features a lazy river, thrilling slides, and a kiddie area. This quarry lake is full of fun and nostalgia. Which do you think are the best swimming holes in Maryland? The summer season can be a bit busy here so plan accordingly. Geologic surveys show that this area was a lake that covered 160 acres of western Maryland … Here are 11 state parks in Maryland that won’t disappoint. It is also a popular lake for fishing, with fishing being allowed from the lake’s shoreline. For some of the best swimming spots in Maryland, visit one of its best waterparks. Located within Seneca Creek State Park, Clopper Lake is a 36 hectare lake that is surrounded by beautiful trees and aquatic vegetation. Are there any natural lazy rivers in Maryland? We cover 8 lakes in Maryland: photos; fishing; boating; lake activities; vacation, retirement and tourism info; maps; and more. Each summer, visitors flock there for picnics or to camp overnight. The number so far is around 5,000. Lake Anna, and I assume many other state park lakes, has a small roped off public beach area that is a very small portion of the lake, and can get pretty crowded. It's a bit quieter here, which is perfect if you're looking to escape the crowds. The surrounding park boasts 80 kilometres of trails that are ideal for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and cross-country skiing. Rachel Cooper Cunningham Falls Park has a recreation area with a 44-acre lake, Hunting Creek Lake, for swimming, boating, and fishing. On River Road in Maryland, a hundred feet west of its intersection with Seneca Road, Seneca Creek passes under a bridge where a natural, shaded hollow makes for a delightful and secluded spot to take a dip. Swimming Lakes in Thurmont on YP.com. Those that would prefer to enjoy the water from land can hike along its shoreline trail. One of the best lakes in Pennsylvania, and the largest inland lake, is Raystown Lake because with more than 8,300 acres of water, you can actually reside in a houseboat for your entire stay.Raystown Lake is in Hesston in south-central Pennsylvania. Boating is allowed on Lake Centennial, but swimming, windsurfing, inner tubing and stand up paddle boarding are not. This beautiful park has a lighthouse and hiking spots, but less people know about the lake beach. photo: Mary Kate A. via Yelp. It is also used for recreational activities, especially by city dwellers on a hot summer day. Better yet, the historically significant setting of the Chesapeake Bay, having seen the worst of the Civil War, lends itself to informative plaques and jarring monuments. Bring the kids, who will absolutely love the spray park. Rivers and Lakes . There are picnic tables surrounding the lake that make for are a nice spot to relax. This state park has an amazing view of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Best for Kids: Beaver Dam Let’s have a look at the best lakes in Maryland: Maryland’s largest inland body of water is also one of the state’s top attractions. Blairs Valley Lake is a 13 hectare lake that was built during the construction of the Blairs Valley Dam. Dog friendly beaches are heaven on earth for Fido. What are the best waterparks in Maryland? There are over 140 campsites with full functioning facilities. Oakland, Maryland. Ocean City, Maryland. You can go swimming in or go canoeing or boating on the 42-acre shimmering lake. Although no natural lakes survive in Maryland, evidence of such lakes has been found. Maryland is home to hundreds of lakes, ponds, reservoirs and fishing areas, ranging from larger, man-made reservoirs to smaller mountain and coastal lakes. Jamie Alvarenga is a writer, editor, and social media manager for Only In Your State. The 386 hectare reservoir is surrounded by campgrounds, picnic areas, hills and greenery, which combined is a total of over 1,820 hectares. Enter your e-mail address for things to do, restaurants to try and much more! It is also a fabulous recreational lake, offering boating, rowing and canoeing. The 15 hectare lake is surrounded by the natural area, though the lake itself has fishing piers. The reason that this lake is so popular is because it has a lifeguard supervised swimming beach. Today was hot, but hey, that's what you want at the lake. When you need a break, grab a bite to eat at Cascade Cafe. If you want a vacation home that gives you access to freshwater fishing, swimming, and other water sports, you should look into the lakes scattered around the state. This list of Maryland state parks includes the state parks and state battlefields listed in the Maryland Department of Natural Resources's current acreage report. Deep Creek Lake is a Western Maryland gem that’s worth visiting at least once. One example is Buckel’s Bog, located along the Casselman River, near Grantsville. Although no natural lakes survive in Maryland, evidence of such lakes has been found. Located at Rocky Gap State Park, this beachy swimming spot offers mountain views while you splash around. 111th Street - The Irene Condominium. Maryland's largest lake also has several spots that are perfect for swimming. For some of the best swimming spots in Maryland, visit one of its best waterparks. Where to stay: Best Hotels in Maryland (MD) There is over 15 kilometres of shoreline around the lake, which boasts three great beaches. The lake is also popular with boaters and kayakers. Stop by the 78-foot waterfall for which the park is named; it’s spectacular. 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