Top 11 Lakes in Howard County
Best lakes in Howard County offer diverse recreational activities and natural landscapes. This region in Maryland features several man-made lakes, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and walking. The lakes are integrated into parks and natural areas, contributing to the local environment and community spaces. They serve as popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best lakes in Howard County
- The most popular lakes is Lake Elkhorn, a 37-acre reservoir. This lake is Columbia, Maryland's largest and features a two-mile paved path around its perimeter.
- Another must-see spot is Centennial Lake, a 54-acre man-made lake within a 337-acre park. It is known for fishing and offers a 2.6-mile paved pathway for walking, running, or biking.
- Visitors also love Lake Kittamaqundi, a 27-acre man-made lake. This lake features a boathouse, a wooden pier, and walking paths, with its name meaning "meeting place."
- Howard County is known for man-made lakes, reservoirs, and ponds. These bodies of water provide varied settings for recreation and natural observation.
- The lakes in Howard County are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 10 highlights and 8 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Brighton Dam and Triadelphia Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
Around the dam and reservoir, you can enjoying hiking, picnicking, horseback riding, boating, fishing and hunting (permit required).
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Centennial Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Lake Elkhorn
Highlight • Lake
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Lake Kittamaqundi
Highlight • Lake
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Hollofield Area
Highlight • Forest
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Lake Kittamaqundi Park
Highlight • Lake
The lake is named after Kittamaqundi village, the first Indian settlement in Howard Country, 40 miles (64 km) away. It translates to 'meeting place' in the tribe's language.
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Wilde Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Lake Elkhorn loop trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Centennial Lake Loop Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Wilde Lake Loop Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Tips from the Community
The Lake Elkhorn loop trail is a paved trail that circles the lake with the same name. It is an easy trail and traffic free, so it is a great place for a recovery ride.
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Centennial Lake is an attractive suburban lake that is open from 7:00 a.m. to dusk. There is a large paved path that goes around the lake that is popular with walkers, joggers, and cyclists. There is also a boat launch (but you need a boating permit), which is a popular spot for fishing.
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This loop takes you around a pretty, man-made lake with plenty of playgrounds and fishing areas, a boat launch, and even a campground along the south shore.
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You may chose to stick to the road or take a deviation and use the greenway to do a loop around the lake. Either way keep an eye open for wildlife and see what you can spot. There are plenty of little piers, paths and pontoons from which to enjoy the lake's beauty.
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Hollofield Area is part of Patapsco Valley State Park. This area has the Peaceful Pond and a long series of trails leading into the forest.
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This pretty suburban lake is open from 7:00 a.m. to dusk. It has a boat launch (you need a boating permit) and is popular for fishing; people catch large channel catfish here. You can also walk a paved trail that goes all the way around the lake.
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Lake “Kitt” is a lovely lake that was constructed during the development of Columbia, it has an area of 27-acres. The name of the lake comes from the name of the first Native American settlement in Howard County, and it means “meeting place”. The path around the lake is a nice multi-use paved trail with access to a wood deck, offering an enjoyable biking day.
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The 800-acre reservoir is situated directly behind the Brighton Dam on the Patuxent River. You can enjoy a nice view of the reservoir from the sidewalk along the dam.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of trails can I find around the lakes in Howard County?
Howard County's lakes offer a variety of trails. For instance, Centennial Lake features a 2.6-mile paved pathway suitable for walking, running, or biking. Lake Elkhorn also has a two-mile paved path around its perimeter. For a more urban stroll, Lake Kittamaqundi provides picturesque walking paths, and Wilde Lake has a 1.46-mile path through a well-maintained neighborhood.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes?
Yes, many lakes in Howard County are family-friendly. Centennial Lake offers boat rentals, fishing classes, and summer camps. Lake Elkhorn includes a picnic pavilion, perfect for outdoor gatherings. Lake Kittamaqundi hosts summer festivals and Fourth of July fireworks, with Nomanizan Island being a popular gathering spot. The Triadelphia Reservoir also provides extensive facilities for hiking, picnicking, and boating.
Can I go fishing or boating at the lakes in Howard County?
Fishing and boating are popular activities. Centennial Lake is regularly stocked with bass, trout, sunfish, and tiger muskies, and offers boat rentals. Lake Elkhorn is stocked with trout every spring. The Triadelphia Reservoir also permits fishing and boating. For specific regulations and permits, especially for boating, it's advisable to check with the local park authorities or visit Visit Howard County's fishing guide.
Which lakes offer accessible trails for all visitors?
Lake Elkhorn is noted for having wheelchair-accessible trails, particularly its main two-mile paved loop. Many of the paved paths around lakes like Centennial Lake and Lake Kittamaqundi are generally flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for a wide range of visitors.
What unique natural features or wildlife can I observe?
The lakes are rich in natural beauty and wildlife. Centennial Lake is home to white-tailed deer, beavers, foxes, turtles, herons, and various bird species. Around Lake Kittamaqundi, herons are frequently spotted along the walking paths. The Triadelphia Reservoir is known for its stunning 5-acre woodland garden with over 20,000 azaleas that bloom beautifully each May.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest near the lakes?
Yes, Lake Kittamaqundi, located in the heart of Columbia Town Center, holds historical significance. Its name translates to 'meeting place' from the first recorded Native American settlement in Howard County. The lake was constructed during the development of Columbia, reflecting the area's planned community history.
Can I bring my dog to the lake trails?
Many trails around the lakes in Howard County are dog-friendly. For example, Lake Elkhorn's trails are explicitly noted as dog-friendly. It's always a good practice to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Howard County?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but specific seasons offer unique experiences. Spring brings the blooming of over 20,000 azaleas at the Triadelphia Reservoir. Late spring through early fall is ideal for boat rentals at Centennial Lake and for enjoying outdoor concerts and festivals at Lake Kittamaqundi. The paved paths are pleasant for walking, running, or biking in milder weather.
Are there options for mountain biking near the lakes?
While the immediate lake paths are often paved and more suited for walking or casual cycling, Howard County offers dedicated mountain biking trails nearby. You can explore routes like the 'Patapsco Alt HoCo Thru Trail' or various loops from Rockburn Branch Park. Find more details on these routes in the MTB Trails in Howard County guide.
Where can I find information about permits for activities like fishing or boating?
Permits are often required for activities such as fishing and boating, especially at larger reservoirs or for boat launches. For fishing regulations and permits, you can refer to resources like Visit Howard County's fishing guide. For boating permits, particularly at places like Centennial Lake, it's best to check with the specific park or county recreation department.
Which lakes are ideal for a picnic or outdoor gathering?
Lake Elkhorn is an excellent choice, featuring a 23-acre park with a picnic pavilion. The Triadelphia Reservoir also offers picnicking facilities. Many of the parks surrounding the lakes, such as Centennial Lake, provide open spaces and amenities suitable for outdoor gatherings.
What are some popular loop trails around the lakes?
Several lakes feature popular loop trails. Centennial Lake has a 2.6-mile paved loop, known as the Centennial Lake Loop Trail. Lake Elkhorn offers a two-mile paved loop, also known as the Lake Elkhorn loop trail. Wilde Lake has a 1.46-mile loop, the Wilde Lake Loop Trail, providing pleasant strolls through a well-maintained neighborhood.
Most popular routes in Howard County
Most popular attractions in Howard County
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