Top 20 Lakes in Maryland
Best lakes in Maryland are predominantly man-made reservoirs, offering diverse recreational activities and scenic beauty across the state. Maryland's landscape features extensive shorelines and forested surroundings, providing natural escapes close to urban areas. These lakes are integral to the state's natural environment, serving as important water sources and habitats. Visitors can explore a variety of settings, from mountain-nestled waters to serene parks.
Best lakes in Maryland
- The most popular lakes is Druid Lake, a lake that features a 1.5-mile paved path circling the water. It is a popular spot for cycling, running, and other activities within Druid Hill Park.
- Another must-see spot is Lake Artemesia, a 38-acre lake surrounded by a park with an aquatic garden and miles of trails. Visitors can expect a serene environment ideal for hiking, running, biking, and birdwatching.
- Visitors also love Little Seneca Lake, a 505-acre reservoir within Black Hill Regional Park. It is known for fishing and boating, with trails around the lake offering scenic views.
- Maryland is known for its reservoirs, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking. The state provides a variety of lakes to see and explore, from large bodies of water with extensive shorelines to smaller, tranquil park lakes.
- The lakes in Maryland are appreciated by the komoot community, with 77 highlights and 17 upvotes.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
Druid Lake
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Little Seneca Lake
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Lake Artemesia
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Loch Raven Reservoir
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Brighton Dam and Triadelphia Reservoir
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Around the dam and reservoir, you can enjoying hiking, picnicking, horseback riding, boating, fishing and hunting (permit required).
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Patuxent Research Refuge
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Clopper Lake Shore Trail
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Lake Needwood Southeast Shore
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Water Lilies Pond, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
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Centennial Lake
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Popular around Maryland
American Discovery Trail โ Walking from sea to shining sea
Mid State Trail โ Traversing the Pennsylvania divide
Tuscarora Trail โ A remote trek across the backbone of Appalachia
The Appalachian Trail โ America's most iconic long-distance hike
Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail โ Exploring a historic corridor
American Discovery Trail โ Riding coast to coast
Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail โ Cycle the nation's river
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal (C&O) Towpath โ A stroll through history
The Great Allegheny Passage โ A scenic walk through the mountains of Southwest Pennsylvania
The C&O Towpath โ Riding along the Potomac and through Americaโs past
Other adventures in Maryland
Tips from the Community
The Lake Shore Trail offers an easy, scenic route with stunning views of Clopper Lake. As you walk, you'll enjoy panoramic lake vistas, peaceful surroundings, and shaded woodlands along the way.
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Little Seneca Lake is a 505-acre reservoir in Montgomery County, Maryland. Created in 1984 as an emergency water supply for the Washington, D.C. area, it also serves as a popular recreational spot within Black Hill Regional Park. The park features facilities for fishing and boating, with the lake stocked with species such as largemouth bass, tiger muskie, and channel catfish. The trails around the lake are open for hiking and mountain biking, which offer beautiful views over the water.
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Lake Needwood is a beautiful 75-acre lake at the start of the Rock Creek Trail. The lake is popular with boaters, swimmers and fishermen. It is a great place for a break on your ride to take a dip to cool down.
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This is a very cool wildlife refuge with trails surrounding Lake Cash and Lake Redington. Make sure to stop in and check out the museum in the Visitor's Center, and keep your eyes peeled for birds along the trail.
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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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Lake Artemesia is a man-made lake, spanning 38 acres and surrounded by Lake Artemesia Park. The lake and the park are named after Artemesia N. Drefs, who in 1972 donated ten lots to the county for preservation as a public green space.
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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 park boasts an aquatic garden, miles of hiking, running, and biking trails, and numerous fishing areas. The standout feature of the park is the scenic 38-acre lake, visible from various points along the trails.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in Maryland are particularly family-friendly?
Several lakes in Maryland offer great experiences for families. Druid Lake in Baltimore's Druid Hill Park features a 1.5-mile paved path perfect for cycling and running. Lake Artemesia is another excellent choice with an aquatic garden and miles of trails for walking and biking. Additionally, Little Seneca Lake within Black Hill Regional Park is popular for fishing and boating, offering scenic views from its surrounding trails. Deep Creek Lake is a prime family vacation spot with year-round activities like swimming, kayaking, and even skiing in winter.
Are there lakes in Maryland with easy hiking or walking trails?
Yes, many lakes in Maryland feature accessible trails. Druid Lake has a 1.5-mile paved loop. Lake Artemesia offers well-maintained paved trails, including the Luther Goldman Birding Trail. The 5.3-mile Lakeside Loop Trail around Lake Habeeb (Rocky Gap Lake) is also a scenic option. For more easy hikes across the state, you can explore the Easy hikes in Maryland guide.
Which lakes are best for swimming in Maryland?
Lake Habeeb (Rocky Gap Lake) is highly recommended for swimming, boasting some of the 'bluest water in the state' and offering three public beaches, including dog-friendly sections. Deep Creek Lake also provides ample opportunities for swimming in its vast waters during warmer months.
What kind of boating and water sports can I do on Maryland's lakes?
Boating and water sports are popular activities on many Maryland lakes. Deep Creek Lake is a hub for various types of boating, including speed boats, pontoon boats, sailboats, and personal watercraft, along with kayaking and paddleboarding. Lake Habeeb allows electric motors, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Little Seneca Lake and Liberty Reservoir also permit boating with electric motors and paddle craft (permits may be required). Loch Raven Reservoir is open for rowing and paddle boating.
Where can I go fishing in Maryland's lakes?
Maryland's lakes are excellent for fishing. Little Seneca Lake is known for species like largemouth bass, tiger muskie, and channel catfish. Lake Habeeb is popular for rainbow trout, bass, and panfish, with ice fishing available seasonally. Loch Raven Reservoir and Liberty Reservoir offer fishing for warm, cool, and cold water species. Lake Artemesia also provides fishing opportunities.
Are there any lakes in Maryland suitable for birdwatching?
Yes, Lake Artemesia is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 225 bird species reported, including various waterfowl, warblers, and raptors. Loch Raven Reservoir and Liberty Reservoir are also great spots for birdwatching due to their extensive shorelines and forested surroundings.
What natural features can I expect to see around Maryland's lakes?
Maryland's lakes, being predominantly man-made reservoirs, are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. You'll find extensive shorelines, dense forests, and picturesque mountain backdrops, especially around Deep Creek Lake. Lake Habeeb is notable for its exceptionally clear blue waters and the mile-long gorge carved by Rocky Gap Run. Lake Artemesia features lush greenery and colorful flowers, while Liberty Reservoir boasts clear blue waters and undeveloped natural areas managed as a Cooperative Wildlife Management Area.
What outdoor activities are available near Maryland's lakes besides water sports?
Beyond water activities, you can enjoy a wide range of outdoor pursuits. Hiking is popular around most lakes, with trails in Deep Creek Lake State Park and the nearby Swallow Falls State Park. Loch Raven Reservoir and Liberty Reservoir offer hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Wisp Resort near Deep Creek Lake provides mountain coasters, zip-lining, and golf. For more options, check out the Hiking in Maryland guide or the Gravel biking in Maryland guide.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible trails around Maryland lakes?
Yes, Druid Lake in Druid Hill Park features a paved path that is wheelchair-accessible. The Patuxent Research Refuge, which includes lake areas, also offers wheelchair-accessible facilities and trails.
What winter activities are available at Maryland's lakes?
Deep Creek Lake transforms into a winter destination. Wisp Resort, adjacent to the lake, offers skiing and snowboarding. Cross-country skiing and snowmobiling on the frozen lake are also popular options when conditions allow. Lake Habeeb also permits ice fishing during suitable winter conditions.
Which lakes are dog-friendly in Maryland?
Lake Habeeb (Rocky Gap Lake) is known for having dog-friendly sections on its public beaches, allowing your canine companions to enjoy the water with you.
What is the best time of year to visit Maryland's lakes?
Maryland's lakes offer activities year-round. Warmer months (spring, summer, early fall) are ideal for swimming, boating, and hiking. Deep Creek Lake is a four-season destination, with winter offering skiing and snowmobiling. Birdwatching is excellent in spring and fall, while the changing foliage in autumn provides stunning scenic beauty.
Are there any lakes close to urban areas in Maryland?
Yes, Lake Artemesia is located in College Park, offering a tranquil escape close to urban areas. Druid Lake is situated within Druid Hill Park in Baltimore. Loch Raven Reservoir and Liberty Reservoir also provide natural escapes conveniently close to Baltimore City and County.
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