Hagerstown MarylandBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Hagerstown, Maryland.
1. Greenbrier State Park
LAKESIDE BEACH AND RECREATION
Greenbrier State Park features a 42-acre man-made lake with a sandy beach ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities including canoeing, hiking, picnicking, fishing, and even hunting in designated areas. The park is a popular destination for families seeking lakeside relaxation and adventure close to Hagerstown.
2. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
HISTORIC RIVERFRONT ESCAPE
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park offers scenic riverfront trails, historic canal locks, and opportunities for kayaking and riverside picnics. The park's Williamsport section near Hagerstown lets guests explore the lockhouse, towpath, and even take canal boat rides. Its proximity to the Potomac River provides a peaceful spot for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
3. Hagerstown City Park
URBAN LAKESIDE RETREAT
Hagerstown City Park boasts a beautiful central lake featuring swans, geese, and ducks, with walking paths and scenic views. The park provides visitors with a tranquil setting for picnicking, relaxing by the water, and exploring art museums nearby. It is a favorite in-town escape for families and outdoor enthusiasts looking for lakeside beauty.
4. Youghiogheny River Lake
MOUNTAIN LAKE ADVENTURE
Youghiogheny River Lake is a sprawling reservoir nestled in the mountains, attracting visitors with its swimming beaches, boating, and fishing opportunities. The lake's scenic shoreline and clear waters make it a prime destination for water sports and picnicking. It is a popular getaway for those seeking an adventurous waterfront experience in Western Maryland.
5. Cunningham Falls State Park
MOUNTAIN SWIMMING HOLE
Cunningham Falls State Park is known for its freshwater lake and beach, offering visitors swimming, boating, and a designated swimming area. The park also features natural waterfalls and scenic forest trails, making it popular for hiking and wildlife viewing. Families appreciate the park for its blend of lakeside recreation and mountain scenery.
6. Antietam Creek
CREEKSIDE SWIMMING AND KAYAKING
Antietam Creek provides a peaceful setting for swimming, tubing, kayaking, and fishing, winding through historic landscapes near the battlefield. Locals and visitors flock to its clear waters for refreshing summer swims and nature walks along the banks. The creek offers a unique blend of history and outdoor water recreation.
7. Fort Frederick State Park
CANAL AND RIVERFRONT VIEWS
Fort Frederick State Park, located on the Potomac River and along the C&O Canal, features riverfront picnic spots, fishing, and boating access. Its historic fort and adjacent waterways provide a scenic backdrop for swimming and wildlife watching. The site is ideal for combining heritage exploration with waterfront relaxation.
8. Lake Habeeb (Rocky Gap State Park)
CLEAR WATER MOUNTAIN LAKE
Lake Habeeb, nestled in Rocky Gap State Park, offers a sandy lakeside beach, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque mountain views. Swimmers, kayakers, and anglers enjoy its tranquil setting and well-managed facilities. The lake is renowned as a top spot for relaxing or recreating by the water in Western Maryland.
9. Dam Number Four (Potomac River)
SECLUDED RIVER SWIMMING
Dam Number Four on the Potomac River provides secluded swimming holes, fishing, and kayaking just outside of Hagerstown. The scenic riverside area is popular among those seeking a quieter escape and a natural setting for water activities. It's an off-the-beaten-path option for riverfront enjoyment.
10. Deep Creek Lake
MARYLAND'S LARGEST LAKE
Deep Creek Lake is Maryland's largest freshwater lake, famous for its extensive public beaches, swimming areas, and a variety of watersports. The resort community offers visitors boat rentals, fishing, lakeside dining, and nature trails. This major waterfront destination draws families and adventure-seekers year-round.