Top 15 Must-Visit Lakes in Maryland for Nature Lovers

One of the smallest states in the USA, Maryland features a diverse range of topography, from sandy shores to undulating hills. Indeed, it is often referred to as ‘America in Miniature’ due to its varied landscape.

Maryland presents an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts, housing remarkable destinations such as Patapsco Valley State Park and Assateague Island National Seashore. Moreover, the renowned Appalachian Trail traverses the state, offering a combination of mountains, waterways, wetlands, and beaches. The state is also home to several enticing lakes.

Let’s explore the best lakes in Maryland:

1. Deep Creek Lake, Garrett County

As Maryland’s largest inland body of water, Deep Creek Lake is a major attraction. This expansive lake, covering 1,578 hectares, serves not only as an excellent venue for recreational activities but also captivates visitors with its stunning natural surroundings of forested mountains.

Deep Creek Lake is a haven for watersports enthusiasts, providing opportunities for tubing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, and paddling. Additionally, the lake features an impressive 111 kilometers of shoreline.

Furthermore, the lake is renowned for its fishing potential, where a variety of freshwater species flourishes. Common catches include largemouth bass, rock bass, northern pike, brown trout, and walleye.

2. Lake Habeeb, Allegany County

Situated within Rocky Gap State Park, Lake Habeeb is a 98-hectare reservoir located at the base of Evitts Mountain. The lake is named after florist Edward Habeeb, who contributed significantly to the area’s development.

The lake features over 15 kilometers of shoreline, complemented by three beautiful beaches. Visitors can delight in various activities, including swimming, camping, and hiking.

Additionally, Lake Habeeb offers exceptional fishing opportunities, allowing enthusiasts to fish around the clock! Species such as largemouth bass, bluegill, rainbow trout, and channel catfish thrive in this water body.

3. Lake Needwood, Montgomery County

Covering 30 hectares, Lake Needwood was designed primarily for flood control and also provides excellent recreational opportunities for boating, rowing, and canoeing.

Fishing is permitted, although a license is required. Those wishing to enjoy the scenery from land may traverse the shoreline trails, which present breathtaking views and ample opportunities for relaxation.

The surrounding trails boast picturesque vistas of the lake and its nearby hills, complemented by picnic areas, playgrounds, and snack bars available along the shores.

4. Loch Raven Reservoir, Baltimore County

Loch Raven Reservoir serves as a crucial water supply for the city of Baltimore while also offering an array of recreational activities, particularly favored by residents seeking respite on warm summer afternoons.

Boat rentals are available for individuals interested in fishing for species including bass, bluegill, crappie, white perch, or walleye, though swimming is prohibited given its role in drinking water supply.

Individuals who prefer to admire the lake from land can enjoy the surrounding trails, which offer excellent hiking paths and picnic spots.

5. Lake Centennial, Ellicott City

Lake Centennial is a man-made body of water, enveloped by the beautiful Centennial Park, creating an excellent venue for a day of outdoor recreation.

Tranquil walking trails encircle the lake, providing visitors with opportunities to witness local wildlife, including designated wildlife observation areas.

Anglers may find success fishing for bass, trout, and various other species. Boating is allowed on the lake; however, swimming, windsurfing, inner tubing, and paddleboarding are not permitted.

6. Jennings Randolph Lake, Garrett County

Jennings Randolph Lake serves as a fantastic destination for various outdoor activities. Spanning 386 hectares, this reservoir is surrounded by campgrounds, picnic areas, rolling hills, and lush greenery, totaling over 1,820 hectares of recreational space.

Visitors can indulge in camping, hiking, eagle watching, and hunting on land, while various water activities, including swimming, kayaking, waterskiing, and fishing, await on the lake.

The lake features Shaw Beach, a popular summer retreat, accommodating several options for lodging and activities for children.

7. Clopper Lake, Montgomery County

Nestled within Seneca Creek State Park, Clopper Lake spans 36 hectares and is beautifully surrounded by trees and vibrant aquatic vegetation. Its average depth measures 5.5 meters, with several shallow areas enhancing its appeal.

Fishing is a prominent attraction, with abundant populations of largemouth bass, tiger muskies, channel catfish, and black crappie, although restrictions apply to certain species.

Clopper Lake also presents favorable conditions for kayaking and boating while the adjacent park features 80 kilometers of trails ideal for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing.

8. Lake Artemesia, Prince George’s County

Lake Artemesia, a man-made reservoir, is named in honor of Artemesia N. Drefs, who contributed land for the preservation of open spaces. This lake is situated within the Lake Artemesia Natural Area, located just northeast of Washington DC.

Spanning 15 hectares, the lake is accompanied by several fishing piers and a scenic aquatic garden, enhancing the visitor experience.

Surrounding Lake Artemesia are over three kilometers of trails that offer excellent hiking and biking opportunities. These trails are particularly cherished by birdwatching enthusiasts eager to spot orioles, finches, ibis, among other avian species.

9. Lake Elkhorn, Columbia

Lake Elkhorn, the third largest lake in Columbia, encompasses 15 hectares and is bordered by parks and residential areas. The lake features a modest dam, alongside a 9-hectare park equipped with a picnic pavilion.

A three-kilometer trail runs around Lake Elkhorn, popular among residents for walking and jogging. Additionally, a playground adjacent to the lake provides recreational opportunities for local children.

The lake’s maximum depth reaches 4.5 meters, while the average depth is slightly over two meters. Each year, it is restocked with trout, and convenient boat docks facilitate fishing expeditions.

10. Lake Kittamaqundi, Columbia

Located in the heart of Columbia, Lake Kittamaqundi is adjacent to the head office of the Rouse Company, who developed this man-made lake during the city’s creation.

Today, Lake Kittamaqundi serves as a vibrant community spot for festivals and other social gatherings. Regardless, it remains an ideal location for leisurely afternoons throughout the year.

The lake features a boathouse with a pier and a launching ramp, facilitating boat traffic between the city and Nomanizan Island, nestled within the lake.

11. Wheatley Lake, Charles County

Wheatley Lake, covering 24 hectares, is the main attraction of Gilbert Run Park. This freshwater lake is ideal for pedal boating, rowing, canoeing, and kayaking.

In addition, a fishing pier allows park goers to catch bass, trout, bluegill, and catfish. Fishing supplies are conveniently available for purchase at a concession stand within the park.

For those who prefer observing the lake’s beauty, numerous docking pavilions and picnic tables provide perfect relaxation spots. Hiking along the four-kilometer trail enhances the overall experience.

12. Lake Bernard Frank, Derwood

Lake Bernard Frank, spanning 22 hectares, was constructed primarily for flood control while also serving recreational purposes.

Surrounded by the Lake Frank & Meadowside Trails, the lake is a favored destination for hiking and biking. It is particularly popular among anglers; fishing is allowed from the shoreline.

During the warmer months, swimming and boating activities are permissible, while the lake attracts visitors for ice skating in winter. Its secluded location offers ample parking space for visitors.

13. Triadelphia Reservoir, Howard County and Montgomery County

Established in 1943 during the construction of the Brighton Dam, Triadelphia Reservoir derives its name from the former town that was submerged by flooding.

This expansive reservoir, covering 3.2 square kilometers, serves as a hub for community recreation, supporting activities such as picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, boating, and hunting.

A boating license is necessary for motorized vessels; however, non-motorized boats are permitted at all times. There are picnic tables situated around the reservoir, providing inviting relaxation spots.

14. Liberty Reservoir, Baltimore and Carroll Counties

Liberty Reservoir is a versatile area for biking, hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. Spanning 1,225 hectares, it is also a serene locale ideal for relaxation.

Scenic lookout points provide spectacular views of the reservoir, particularly captivating in autumn when the foliage transitions into vibrant colors.

Swimming is prohibited in the waters, and camping is not allowed in the vicinity. The lake is maintained by the city and houses a firing range utilized solely by the Maryland State Police.

15. Blairs Valley Lake, Washington County

Blairs Valley Lake encompasses 13 hectares and was created during the construction of Blairs Valley Dam. Today, it stands out as an excellent fishing destination.

Anglers can anticipate successful catches of largemouth bass, bluegill, and tiger muskie. Other species such as redear sunfish, black crappie, brown bullhead, yellow perch, and carp are also present.

Gas motors are prohibited on the lake; however, other types of boats are allowed. A boat ramp provides access for boat owners, but there are no rental facilities available.