Top 10 Lakes around Towson
Best lakes around Towson include several reservoirs and natural areas located nearby, offering diverse recreational opportunities. The region features a mix of urban and natural landscapes, with lakes serving as key points for outdoor activities. These bodies of water are often nestled within parks or surrounded by forests, providing accessible escapes for residents and visitors. The area's geography supports a variety of lake-based recreation, from hiking and cycling to water sports and wildlife observation.
Best lakes around Towson
- The most popular lakes is Druid Lake, a lake that features a 1.5-mile paved path circling the water. It is a prime spot for running, cycling, and walking within Druid Hill Park.
- Another must-see spot is Loch Raven Reservoir, a lake that serves as a primary source of drinking water for Baltimore and is surrounded by extensive hiking trails. This 1,600-acre reservoir is popular for hiking, rowing, paddleboarding, and horseback riding.
- Visitors also love Lake Montebello, an artificial reservoir built in 1881. It features a paved bicycle and pedestrian path that fully circumnavigates it, offering a tranquil urban escape.
- Towson is known for its reservoirs and natural lakes, which provide opportunities for hiking, cycling, and water activities. Visitors can explore a variety of lake environments, from urban parks to extensive wildlife areas.
- The lakes around Towson are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 15 upvotes and 6 photos shared by users.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Druid Lake
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Loch Raven Reservoir
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Loch Raven Wildlife Area
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Look out for: groundhogs, chipmunks, beavers, bald eagles, osprey, praying mantises, snapping turtles, and more.
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Druid Hill Park
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Throughout the year there are various events and markets, like the Druid Hill Farmers' Market. There's also plenty of monuments, fountains, woodland and Druid Lake to explore.
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Lake Montebello
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Tips from the Community
Lake Montebello in Baltimore is a serene urban reservoir, circled by a popular 1.3-mile walking and biking path, offering picturesque views, abundant wildlife and a tranquil escape within the city.
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Lake Montebello is an artificial reservoir that was built in 1881. There is a paved bicycle and pedestrian path that goes all the way around this scenic spot.
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Druid Hill Park is a gem for runners in the Baltimore area, and Druid Lake is one of the highlights within the park. There is a 1.5-mile paved path circling the water and access to other paths in the same area.
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This large urban park is a wonderful place to relax in northwest Baltimore. Opened in 1860, it's one of the oldest public parks in the US. Throughout the year there are various events and markets, like the Druid Hill Farmers' Market. There's also plenty of monuments, fountains, woodland and Druid Lake to explore.
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Loch Raven Reservoir is a 1,600-acre reservoir and provides drinking water for the City of Baltimore. The area is a popular spot for hiking, rowing, paddleboarding, bird watching, and horseback riding.
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Druid Hill Park is a gem for runners in the Baltimore area, and Druid Lake is one of the highlights within the park. There is a 1.5-mile paved path circling the water and access to other paths in the same area.
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This large urban park is a wonderful place to relax in northwest Baltimore. Opened in 1860, it's one of the oldest public parks in the US. Throughout the year there are various events and markets, like the Druid Hill Farmers' Market. There's also plenty of monuments, fountains, woodland and Druid Lake to explore.
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Loch Raven Wildlife Area is home to many species of birds, insects, amphibians, and mammals. You can explore the edges of Loch Raven Reservoir and its surrounding forests on a network of hiking trails. Look out for: groundhogs, chipmunks, beavers, bald eagles, osprey, praying mantises, snapping turtles, and more.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What outdoor activities can I do near Towson's lakes?
The lakes around Towson offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, rowing, paddleboarding, and horseback riding. For example, Loch Raven Reservoir is popular for hiking, rowing, and paddleboarding, while Druid Lake and Lake Montebello are excellent for walking and cycling on their paved paths. Lake Roland Park also offers canoeing and kayaking. For more detailed routes, explore the hiking guides and road cycling guides for the area.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Towson?
Yes, several lakes near Towson are great for families. Lake Roland Park, for instance, offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and a nature center. Loch Raven Reservoir and Druid Lake are also considered family-friendly, providing ample space for walks, cycling, and enjoying nature. Druid Hill Park, which encompasses Druid Lake, hosts various events and markets suitable for all ages.
Where can I find easy hiking trails near Towson's lakes?
For easy hiking, Lake Roland Park is an excellent choice, featuring trails like the Lake Roland Red Trail Loop. The paved paths around Druid Lake and Lake Montebello also provide easy walking and cycling options. You can find more easy routes in the easy hikes guide for Towson.
Can I go cycling around the lakes near Towson?
Absolutely. Druid Lake has a 1.5-mile paved path perfect for cycling, and Lake Montebello features a fully circumnavigating paved bicycle and pedestrian path. On weekends, roads around Loch Raven Reservoir are closed to vehicle traffic, creating a smooth surface for bikers. Explore more options in the road cycling routes around Towson.
Are there dog-friendly areas or trails around Towson's lakes?
Yes, Lake Roland Park is known for being dog-friendly and includes a dedicated dog park. Many of the trails around Loch Raven Reservoir are also suitable for walks with dogs, though leash rules should always be observed.
What kind of wildlife can I spot near the lakes?
The lakes and their surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. At Loch Raven Reservoir and the Loch Raven Wildlife Area, you might see bald eagles, osprey, beavers, and chipmunks. Lake Roland Park is also recognized for its natural rare wild bird habitat, making it ideal for birdwatching. Lake Montebello also offers a tranquil urban escape with abundant wildlife.
Are there any historic sites or cultural attractions near the lakes?
Yes, Druid Hill Park, home to Druid Lake, is one of the oldest public parks in the U.S., opened in 1860, and features various monuments and fountains. Lake Roland is also recognized as a historic site. Lake Montebello, an artificial reservoir, was built in 1881, adding to the area's historical context.
Are there wheelchair-accessible paths around Towson's lakes?
Yes, both Druid Lake and Lake Montebello feature paved paths that fully circumnavigate the water, making them suitable for wheelchair users and strollers.
What are the best lakes for water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding?
For canoeing and kayaking, Lake Roland is a popular choice. Loch Raven Reservoir is also a hub for water enthusiasts, offering opportunities for rowing and paddleboarding.
What makes Loch Raven Reservoir a popular destination?
Loch Raven Reservoir is a 1,600-acre reservoir known for its extensive network of hiking trails and diverse wildlife, including bald eagles. It's a popular spot for hiking, rowing, paddleboarding, and horseback riding. On weekends, its lakeside roads are closed to vehicles, providing a scenic route for runners, walkers, and bikers.
Are there cafes or accommodation options near the lakes?
While the immediate vicinity of the reservoirs like Loch Raven is primarily natural, the lakes are easily accessible from Towson and Baltimore, where you'll find a wide range of cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. Druid Hill Park, which includes Druid Lake, also hosts events and markets where food vendors might be present.
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