6 Gorgeous Lakes To Visit Around Washington DC This Summer
Is there anything better than summer in the city? Yes, summer at the lake! Luckily, since Washington, DC is so close to both Maryland and Virginia, we’re not far from plenty of beautiful lakes. These bodies of water are perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, and just general lounging. If you’re looking for picture-perfect views and all-around fun, you’ll want to check out the best lakes near DC. We’ve gathered up a few of our favorites that you should visit this summer.
1. Lake Anna at Lake Anna State Park: 6800 Lawyers Rd, Spotsylvania Courthouse, VA 22551
Lake Anna State Park, 6800 Lawyers Rd, Spotsylvania Courthouse, VA 22551, USA
Lake Anna is one of the largest inland lakes in Virginia. It's only about 70 miles south of Washington, DC. This is a popular spot for fishing, camping, and swimming. At 13,000 acres, this is a big lake! It's inside the Virginia state park that shares its name.
Every lake in Maryland is man-made, which is a pretty incredible fact. The most impressive of all is Deep Creek Lake, the largest inland body of water in the Old Line State. There are nearly 70 miles of shoreline here, so you'll find plenty of space for fishing, sunbathing, and swimming.
3. Hunting Creek Lake in Cunningham Falls State Park: Cunningham Falls Park Rd, Maryland 21788
Cunningham Falls Park Road, Cunningham Falls Park Rd, Maryland 21788, USA
Cunningham Falls State Park in Maryland is pretty spectacular. It's tucked away in the Catoctin Mountains and has a waterfall that shares its name, plus a gorgeous beach at Hunting Creek Lake. This is the perfect place to create your own outdoor adventure. You can swim and even rent a paddleboat or canoe here if you don't feel like relaxing in the sand for the day!
4. Greenbrier Lake in Greenbrier State Park: 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro, MD 21713
Greenbrier State Park, 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro, MD 21713, USA
Another great state park in Maryland is Greenbrier State Park. It's hidden in the Appalachian Mountains and where you'll find Greenbrier Lake. This is some of the clearest water in the state and you'll find lots of opportunities for fun. Hiking trails, boating, and fishing are all popular. If you don't feel like leaving, there's a campground where you can stay the night!
Lake Arrowhead is a 34-acre lake in the scenic Shenandoah Valley. The lake boasts a sandy beach and is a popular spot for fishing and tubing. There are also plenty of nearby hiking trails. It's one of our favorite lakes in Virginia and is definitely worth a visit.
Smith Mountain is actually a few hours away from Washington, DC. It's closer to Roanoke, down in Southern Virginia. Still, it's definitely worth the drive! It's no wonder this is one of the area's most popular lake destinations. It's nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and has tons of water sports, plus gorgeous views. It's such a beautiful lake!
How many of these lakes near DC have you visited? Are there any others that you think we must visit? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Address: Lake Arrowhead Beach, Virginia 22835, USA
Address: Cunningham Falls Park Road, Cunningham Falls Park Rd, Maryland 21788, USA
Address: Greenbrier State Park, 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro, MD 21713, USA
Address: Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, USA
Address: Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, USA
Address: Lake Anna State Park, 6800 Lawyers Rd, Spotsylvania Courthouse, VA 22551, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Lakes Near DC
May 28, 2022
Lisa Sammons
What are some more of the best lakes near Washington, DC?
We love Deep Creek Lake in Maryland! It’s about a three-hour drive, but totally worth the time in the car. The lake is absolutely gorgeous and has some of the clearest water around.
What are some other things to do in the summer in Washington, DC?
It can get famously muggy in DC, so you might feel the urge to take a day trip? If you want to get out of the city, there are plenty of great summer day trips near DC.
What are the best water parks near Washington, DC?
Great Waves Waterpark is 20 acres of summer fun in the sun. You’ll find slides, splash pads, and a giant wave pool that’s an absolute blast.
Address: Lake Arrowhead Beach, Virginia 22835, USA
Address: Cunningham Falls Park Road, Cunningham Falls Park Rd, Maryland 21788, USA
Address: Greenbrier State Park, 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro, MD 21713, USA
Address: Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, USA
Address: Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, USA
Address: Lake Anna State Park, 6800 Lawyers Rd, Spotsylvania Courthouse, VA 22551, USA
