The state of Maryland is unique in that it has over 100 lakes and all of them are man made. Originally intended as water reservoirs and formed after the damming of nearby creeks or rivers. Many of the lakes are located in parks throughout the state, which makes visiting these glistening beauties popular for a plethora of outdoor recreational activities. Very few allow swimming, and gas powered boats are not allowed in order to preserve lake cleanliness and the peaceful ambiance. All are well stocked with fish, which makes for a fisherman’s dream. Below are a few of our favorite nearby Maryland lakes to visit this summer.
Centennial Lake
Located in Ellicott City, and part of the 325-acre Centennial Park, Centennial Lake is a 54-acre scenic man-made reservoir that formed as the result of damming the Little Patuxent River. To fisherman’s delight, the lake is stocked with largemouth bass, redear sunfish, and bluegill sunfish. A paved trail surrounds the lake, providing easy access and an enjoyable walking path. The west end of the lake is a wildlife sanctuary and is off-limits to fishing. Great for wildlife spotting, fishing, hiking and more, this Howard County gem is a favorite for locals.
Loch Raven Reservoir
Just a few miles outside of Baltimore is Loch Raven Reservoir, a man-made lake surrounded by dense forest and interconnecting hiking trails throughout. The lake was created after a dam and water tunnel were built to channel water to nearby Lake Clifton and Lake Montebello. While swimming is not allowed on the lake, it offers a network of trails, several picnic areas, a skeet shooting range, and is stocked with fish such as large and smallmouth bass, northern pike, and yellow perch. The lakeside roads are closed to traffic on the weekends allowing runners, walkers, bikers, and rollerbladers to enjoy the smooth asphalt surface and spectacular views of the lake.
Prettyboy Reservoir
Located in northern Baltimore County is Prettyboy Reservoir, a 1,500 acre man-made lake. It was created after building the Prettyboy Dam on the Gunpowder River. It is one of three reservoirs built to improve the Metropolitan Baltimore supply with water. While swimming is also not allowed here, the lake is well-stocked with small and largemouth bass, brown and rainbow trout, white perch, and striped bass, making it a fisherman’s delight. The area around the reservoir is surrounded by dense forest and is full of wildlife and hiking the network of trails is extremely popular. The trails at Prettyboy Reservoir are also open to horseback riders.
Liberty Reservoir
Located in the Patapsco region in Maryland’s Baltimore suburbs is Liberty Lake, also known as Liberty Reservoir. This reservoir helps supply water to the nearby Baltimore suburbs. Swimming is not allowed but the lake is stocked with small and largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and white perch for fishing. The area surrounding Liberty Reservoir is popular for bird watching, hiking and nature photography.
Dorsey Family Homes has been building new single family homes in Howard County for over 40 years and is your choice home builder if you’re looking for a new home near one of these incredible Maryland lakes. We have new Ellicott City homesites coming soon and Columbia homesites coming this fall. Contact us today if you’re looking to build a new home in Howard County.
