Maryland holds the unique distinction of being the only U.S. state without any natural lakes. While the state boasts an abundance of rivers, streams, and the extensive Chesapeake Bay, you won’t find a single body of water formed by natural geological processes that is classified as a natural lake within its borders. This characteristic sets Maryland apart from every other state, most of which have numerous glacial, tectonic, or volcanic lakes.
Despite this geological particularity, Marylanders and visitors still have access to plenty of water-based recreation thanks to numerous man-made reservoirs and impoundments. Today we will look at the three largest lakes/reservoirs (all man-made) in the state of Maryland:
The Conowingo Reservoir stands as Maryland’s largest lake/reservoir, covering an expansive 8,563 acres where the Susquehanna River meets Harford and Cecil Counties, near the Pennsylvania border. Created by the Conowingo Dam in 1928, its primary purpose is the generation of hydroelectric power, making it a critical source of renewable energy for the state. Beyond electricity, it also contributes to the public water supply for Baltimore City and serves as a cooling source for a nuclear power plant.
While vital for power and water, the reservoir faces significant environmental challenges due to its role in trapping sediment and nutrients flowing towards the Chesapeake Bay, a capacity it is rapidly approaching. Despite these concerns, it remains a popular destination for fishing, particularly for various sportfish, and is renowned as a prime location for observing bald eagles, especially during the colder months.
Located in the picturesque Appalachian Mountains of Garrett County, Deep Creek Lake is Maryland’s largest inland lake, spanning approximately 3,900 acres with 69 miles of shoreline. Originally constructed in the 1920s for hydroelectric power, its management has evolved to balance energy production with its role as the state’s premier recreational lake. This balance has cemented its status as a year-round tourist destination, offering a wide array of summer activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, and watersports.
In the winter, its proximity to Wisp Resort transforms the area into a hub for skiing and snowboarding. Public access is readily available through Deep Creek Lake State Park, which provides amenities like a beach, boat ramp, and camping facilities, cementing its reputation as a cornerstone of Maryland’s outdoor leisure.
The Liberty Reservoir, covering about 3,106 acres across Baltimore and Carroll Counties, serves as a crucial component of Baltimore City’s drinking water system. This reservoir, with its 82 miles of shoreline and impressive maximum depth of 144 feet, is meticulously managed to ensure the purity of the water it supplies. While swimming is prohibited to protect water quality, the reservoir is a favored spot for fishing, attracting anglers seeking species like largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, and white perch. Boating is permitted, though restricted to non-motorized vessels or those with electric motors, and requires a permit from the City of Baltimore.
The surrounding lands are part of a Cooperative Wildlife Management Area, offering peaceful opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and regulated hunting, providing a tranquil natural escape relatively close to urban centers.