Here Are 10 Of The Most Beautiful Lakes In Maryland, According To Our Readers
By Chris Muras|Published December 14, 2022
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Chris Muras
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Every adventure starts with a single step. And then another, and another, until you find yourself somewhere new and undiscovered. That’s the journey of a writer. You never know where the next word will take you. Hopefully, together, we can experience some amazing new adventures at OnlyInYourState.
Maryland as a state is filled with natural beauty, its rivers and lake areas are no exception. However, Maryland is the only state without any remaining natural lakes. Most lakes in the US, around 74 percent, were created when huge glaciers passed through the region over 25,000 years ago. Since Maryland did not see any glacial activity in the last great ice age, no natural lakes were formed.
That being said, Maryland does have 280 reservoirs that would feel pretty left out if we didn’t admire their beauty. With so many beautiful reservoirs found in Maryland, it’s hard to choose a favorite, so we polled our readers on our Only In Maryland Facebook page to come up with a list of ten of the best lakes in Maryland. Shall we take a dip and see which one is your favorite?
Liberty Reservoir is a nice-sized 3,100-acre lake in north central Maryland. If you take a peak into its calm waters you'll notice quite a few friendly fish waiting to play. Bass, bluegill, crappie, and perch are the main species in the reservoir. Aside from fishing, there are wonderful hiking, biking, and walking trails all around this lake.
The biggest body of water in Maryland, Deep Creek Lake, is definitely a popular pick in our poll. From boating to summer vacations this lake is a source of fun for the whole family. It is also a very peaceful lake despite its popularity, especially in the winter when we get an early freeze allowing you to ice skate on its pristine frozen surface.
At only 54 acres, Centennial is a calm quiet reservoir that transforms into a magical landscape in the fall when the trees fill with color. Centennial reservoir is Little Patuxent River's baby brother since it was formed when the Centennial branch of the river was dammed. You can find this charming lake near Columbia, Maryland, in Centennial Park.
Take a jaunt to College Park and Berwyn Heights to find this 38-acre little slice of aquatic heaven. Another tranquil body of water that makes a wonderful spot to hike, jog, walk, and even catch some live music in the summer months. There is also a nice workout area to get your heart rate pumping while enjoying scenic views.
Oh, Little Seneca how we love thee! This beautiful reservoir in Montgomery County was actually created as an emergency water supply for Washington, D.C., but it is popular for boating and fishing as well. Along with your typical bass, crappie, perch, and sunfish, you'll also be able to wrestle a few channel catfish and tiger muskie too.
Despite its ferocious-sounding name, this peaceful lake is popular for kayaking, canoeing, and small boats with electric motors only. Perhaps because of that, it offers some of the best fishing in the state. In fact, the state record rainbow trout was hauled in from the Savage River Reservoir - a whopping 14-pound, 3-ounce pot of gold at the end of the rainbow beauty.
A little dose of happiness awaits you at the Elkhorn Reservoir. A charming 38-acre man-made lake with a two-mile walking trail around it makes for a fun and relaxing cruise any day of the year. Lake Elkhorn Park is also a great place to bring the family for a summer picnic.
Park of Rock Creek Regional Park, Lake Needwood is another wonderful small lake in Maryland that is a big hit with kayaks, canoes, and even the people who choose to ride said kayaks and canoes. You might even find a rowboat or two gracefully sliding across the lake with a couple enjoying a romantic moment on this charming Maryland waterway.
This beautiful reservoir is rather unique among all of the reservoirs in Maryland. Swimming in reservoirs is highly frowned upon, if not illegal in much of Maryland because of how dangerous it is due to undercurrents and other hazards. However, there are several public beach areas along Habeeb's 9.4 miles of shoreline in Rocky Gap State Park.
The Triadelphia Reservoir is an 800-acre lake on the Patuxent River that was formed in 1943 when the Patuxent Dam was built. Typically boating access is allowed, however when the reservoir is low, some boat ramps are closed. Once you get a line in though the fish are ready to bite. You can expect to find game fish ready to take your line for a spin including walleye, carp, yellow perch, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, muskie, and northern pike.
Whether you enjoy Maryland’s many reservoirs for their scenic beauty or recreational activities these ten man-made lakes are certainly worth exploring and enjoying. Which Maryland lake is your favorite?
