Top 12 Lakes around Jessup
Best lakes around Jessup offer diverse aquatic and recreational opportunities across both Maryland and Pennsylvania. Jessup, Maryland, provides access to man-made lakes and reservoirs, while Jessup, Pennsylvania, is situated near numerous natural and man-made lakes. These areas feature various bodies of water suitable for activities such as fishing, walking, and biking. The region's lakes are integrated into natural landscapes, including forests and wetlands, providing varied outdoor experiences.
Best lakes around Jessup
- The most popular lakes is Lake Elkhorn, a lake that is a 37-acre reservoir and Columbia, Maryland's largest lake. A paved two-mile path encircles the lake, built in 1982.
- Another must-see spot is Centennial Lake, a suburban lake. It features a boat launch and is known for fishing, particularly for channel catfish.
- Visitors also love Lake Kittamaqundi, a 27-acre lake. The path around the lake is a multi-use paved trail with access to a wood deck, suitable for biking.
- Jessup is known for reservoirs, man-made lakes, and natural lakes. These bodies of water offer opportunities for fishing, walking, and other outdoor recreation.
- The lakes around Jessup are appreciated by the komoot community, with 10 upvotes and 2 photos shared.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Centennial Lake
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Lake Elkhorn
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Lake Kittamaqundi
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Cash Lake Trail
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Patuxent Research Refuge
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Patuxent Research Refuge is a beautiful mix of tranquil forest, meadow, and wetlands, spanning 13,000 acres nestled in the heart of a densely populated urban area. It is home to a wide variety of bird species, and plenty of other wildlife. It is a spectacular place to spend the day immersing yourself and connecting with nature while you explore the trails.
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Patuxent Research Refuge is a beautiful mix of tranquil forest, meadow, and wetlands, spanning 13,000 acres nestled in the heart of a densely populated urban area. It is home to a wide variety of bird species, and plenty of other wildlife. It is a spectacular place to spend the day immersing yourself and connecting with nature while you explore the trails.
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Centennial Lake is an attractive suburban lake that is open from 7:00 a.m. to dusk. There is a large paved path that goes around the lake that is popular with walkers, joggers, and cyclists. There is also a boat launch (but you need a boating permit), which is a popular spot for fishing.
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This pretty suburban lake is open from 7:00 a.m. to dusk. It has a boat launch (you need a boating permit) and is popular for fishing; people catch large channel catfish here. You can also walk a paved trail that goes all the way around the lake.
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Lake “Kitt” is a lovely lake that was constructed during the development of Columbia, it has an area of 27-acres. The name of the lake comes from the name of the first Native American settlement in Howard County, and it means “meeting place”. The path around the lake is a nice multi-use paved trail with access to a wood deck, offering an enjoyable biking day.
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At 37 acres in size, Lake Elkhorn is the 3rd largest lake in Columbia and features a number of paths and trails near its banks. The main loop around the water is completely paved, but there are a bunch of other trails and paths that intersect it, too.
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Lake Elkhorn is a 37-acre reservoir and is Columbia, Maryland's largest lake. There is a paved two-mile path around the lake that was built in 1982.
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At 37 acres in size, Lake Elkhorn is the 3rd largest lake in Columbia and features a number of paths and trails near its banks. The main loop around the water is completely paved, but there are a bunch of other trails and paths that intersect it, too.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find around Jessup?
The Jessup region offers a mix of man-made lakes, reservoirs, and natural lakes. Jessup, Maryland, primarily features man-made lakes and reservoirs like Centennial Lake and Lake Elkhorn. Jessup, Pennsylvania, is situated near numerous lakes, including Marshwood Reservoir, Moosic Lakes, and the larger Lake Wallenpaupack.
Are there hiking or walking trails around the lakes near Jessup?
Yes, many lakes in the Jessup area feature trails. For example, Lake Elkhorn has a paved two-mile path, and Centennial Lake also offers a paved trail around its perimeter. The Patuxent Research Refuge, which includes Cash Lake, provides numerous trails through forests, meadows, and wetlands. You can find various hiking routes in the area, including easy loops around lakes, by exploring the Hiking around Jessup guide.
Which lakes are suitable for families?
Several lakes around Jessup are family-friendly. Centennial Lake, Lake Elkhorn, and Lake Kittamaqundi all offer paved paths suitable for walks and biking, and are listed as family-friendly. The Patuxent Research Refuge also has family-friendly trails.
Are there dog-friendly options for lakes or trails?
Yes, Lake Elkhorn is specifically noted as dog-friendly, offering paths and trails where you can enjoy time with your pet. Always ensure to follow local leash laws and clean up after your dog.
Can I go fishing at the lakes near Jessup?
Fishing is a popular activity at many lakes in the region. Centennial Lake is known for channel catfish. Deep Creek Lake and Lake Habeeb in Western Maryland are excellent for various species, including bass and trout. In Pennsylvania, Marshwood Reservoir, Moosic Lakes, and Lake Wallenpaupack are popular fishing spots. Permits are generally required for fishing; check with local authorities for specific regulations.
What kind of cycling opportunities are available near these lakes?
Many lakes offer paved paths ideal for cycling. Lake Elkhorn and Lake Kittamaqundi both have multi-use paved trails suitable for biking. For more extensive cycling routes, you can explore the Cycling around Jessup guide or the Road Cycling Routes around Jessup guide, which include routes near lakes like Lake Elkhorn.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths around the lakes?
Yes, Lake Elkhorn is noted for having wheelchair-accessible paths, making it a good option for visitors with mobility needs.
When is the best time to visit the lakes around Jessup?
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling. Summer is ideal for water sports like boating and swimming, especially at larger lakes like Deep Creek Lake or Lake Wallenpaupack. Winter can offer unique activities like snowmobiling at Deep Creek Lake.
What natural features or viewpoints can I expect to see?
The lakes around Jessup are integrated into diverse natural landscapes. You can find tranquil forests, meadows, and wetlands, particularly at the Patuxent Research Refuge. Lakes like Lake Elkhorn and Lake Kittamaqundi offer scenic viewpoints along their trails. Lake Habeeb in Rocky Gap State Park is known for its 'bluest water in the state' and rugged mountain surroundings.
Are there opportunities for boating or kayaking?
Yes, boating and kayaking are popular at several lakes. Centennial Lake has a boat launch (requiring a permit). Deep Creek Lake is a premier destination for water sports, including boating. Lake Habeeb offers canoe/kayak rentals, and Lake Wallenpaupack is a significant boating destination with no horsepower limits for boats (though speed restrictions apply).
Where can I find information about permits for activities like boating or fishing?
Permits are often required for activities such as boating and fishing. For Maryland lakes, check with local county or state park authorities. For Pennsylvania lakes, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is the primary resource. For Lake Wallenpaupack, specific information can be found on the pa.gov website.
What is the largest lake near Jessup?
The largest lake near Jessup, Maryland, is Deep Creek Lake, located in Western Maryland. For Jessup, Pennsylvania, the largest significant lake in the broader region is Lake Wallenpaupack, spanning 5,700 acres.
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