Summertime means heading to the best swimming holes in Maryland. After all, the days are long and the temperatures are HOT during a typical Maryland summer, and we all need ways to stay cool. If you’re looking to cool off in the water this summer, head to the following swimming holes in Maryland. They’re all unique in their own way, and you won’t have to worry about chlorine getting in your eyes. If you’ve been looking for “swimming holes near me,” you’ve just found some of the best! Happy swimming!

1. Greenbrier State Park (Boonsboro)
Greenbrier State Park, 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro, MD 21713, USA
Flickr / dpbirds
Arrive early because this spot is known to be busy during peak season. The wait is absolutely worth it though for the lake's clear water and surrounding scenic views. You can go swimming in or go canoeing or boating on the 42-acre shimmering lake. Read more about the clearest lake in Maryland in our previous article. It's the perfect place to go swimming in Maryland!

2. Deep Creek Lake (McHenry)
DEEP CREEK LAKE, 26 Glendaloch Ln, McHenry, MD 21541, USA
Flickr / Jon Dawson
Maryland's largest lake also has several spots that are perfect for swimming in Maryland. Bring a friend and make a day of it. The lake is also popular with boaters and kayakers. Take a peek at the fun that awaits at Deep Creek by reading our previous article.

3. Lake Habeeb (Flintstone)
Lake Habeeb, Maryland 21530, USA
Flickr / Karen Jacobs Cook
Located at Rocky Gap State Park, this beachy swimming spot offers mountain views while you splash around. The water can sometimes appear brilliantly blue from the reflections of the sky. It's also a popular spot for fishing. Start planning your visit to the lake with the bluest water in Maryland.
4. Cunningham Falls State Park (Thurmont)
Cunningham Falls State Park, 14274 William Houck Dr, Thurmont, MD 21788, USA
Flickr / Fred Schroeder
Many know this spot for its cascading waterfall and hiking opportunities. But there is also a lake beach for those looking to cool off during hot summer days. Take care when you're in the water as there are no lifeguards on duty. You might want to wear a life jacket. Read all about this beautiful Maryland beach in our previous article.
5. Sandy Point State Park (Annapolis)
Sandy Point State Park, 1100 E College Pkwy, Annapolis, MD 21409, USA
Flickr / Chesapeake Bay Program
This state park has an amazing view of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. The summer season can be a bit busy here so plan accordingly. You'll find showers near the beach, and you might want to bring a picnic to enjoy a meal at one of the picnic tables. Did you know that this state park is also the perfect place to catch a beautiful Maryland sunrise?

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6. Kilgore Falls (Pylesville)
Kilgore Falls, 1026 Falling Branch Rd, Pylesville, MD 21132, USA
Flickr / Dave Buchhofer
Stand underneath a waterfall at this scenic spot, where you can cool off on the hottest days of summer. And as always, leave no trace behind to keep this natural wonder picturesque. Read all about this waterfall swimming hole in Maryland in our previous article.
7. Cascade Lake (Hampstead)
Cascade Lake Dam, 2844 Snydersburg Rd, Hampstead, MD 21074, USA
Yelp / Dante C.
Cascade Lake has fun platforms and a waterslide to keep your experience exciting. Bring the kids, who will absolutely love the spray park. When you need a break, grab a bite to eat at Cascade Cafe. Here's a peek at the fun that awaits at this outdoor water playground in Maryland.
8. Elk Neck State Park (North East)
Elk Neck State Park, 4395 Turkey Point Rd, North East, MD 21901, USA
Flickr /kit
This beautiful park has a lighthouse and hiking spots, but fewer people know about the lake beach. Dip your toes in the water or jump in the cool water for a relaxing day. Read all about this beautiful Maryland state park in our previous article.
9. Gunpowder Falls State Park (Middle River)
Gunpowder Falls State Park Hammerman Area, 7200 Graces Quarters Rd, Middle River, MD 21220, USA
TripAdvisor / TouristMD
This sprawling park has an abundance of areas, including the pictured Hammerman area. Head here for a beach-like swimming experience. It's also an idyllic spot for a day of tubing. Plan your trip down this natural lazy river in Maryland.
10. Terrapin Beach Park (Stevensville)
Terrapin Nature Park, 191 Log Canoe Cir, Stevensville, MD 21666, USA
Flickr / Forsaken Fotos
This spot is located on Kent Island and has a great view of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. It's a bit quieter here, which is perfect if you're looking to escape the crowds. In addition to its sandy beaches, the park offers a boardwalk, a picturesque hiking trail, and meadows of wildflowers. Find out why this beach might become your new favorite swimming hole in Maryland.

Which do you think are the best swimming holes in Maryland? Where do you like to go swimming in Maryland? Feel free to share below! If you prefer meandering down the water instead, go tubing on one of these natural lazy rivers in Maryland.

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swimming holes in Maryland

Beth Price-Williams | June 26, 2020

Are there any natural lazy rivers in Maryland?

Summer in Maryland promises an abundance of adventure – no matter your interests. If you like lazy days meandering down a natural lazy river, you’ll find that in Maryland, too. Head over to Gunpowder Falls State Park, where you can spend the day floating down the river. If you don’t have your own tube, you can rent one from Monkton Bike Rental.

Antietam Creek River & Trail Outfitters also rents tubes, which you can use to meander down Antietam Creek. If you’re a history buff, sign up for one of the history floats. Led by a seasoned guide, the float provides insight into the area’s rich history.

What are the best waterparks in Maryland?

For some of the best swimming spots in Maryland, visit one of its best waterparks. If you like wacky and fun, you can’t go wrong when you visit Six Flags America in Bowie. The waterpark features a massive wave pool, perfect for staying cool all day long. However, if you like fast-paced thrills, zip down one of the water slides. Splashwater Falls boasts more than 100 attractions, including a dumping bucket.

Chesapeake Beach Water Park is another must-stop during summer in Maryland. The water park features a lazy river, thrilling slides, and a kiddie area.

What are the best free things to do in Maryland?

On the hunt for outdoor adventure in Maryland? You can find a ton of things to do, and many are free. If heights take your breath away, stroll over the swinging bridge at Patapsco Valley State Park. That’s just the start of your adventure at the expansive park that also features hiking, Daniels Dam, and Cascade Falls. (Make sure you cross the swinging bridge in the fall too, because you’ll be blown away by the gorgeous foliage.)

Bring your camera and your binoculars along for a few hours, or a whole day, of bald eagle watching at Conowingo Dam. The bald eagles hunt for fish in the dam’s water, so you can watch them eat.

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Explore Maryland

Featured Addresses
Greenbrier State Park, 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro, MD 21713, USA
Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, USA
Lake Habeeb, Maryland 21530, USA
Cunningham Falls State Park, 14274 William Houck Dr, Thurmont, MD 21788, USA
Sandy Point State Park, 1100 E College Pkwy, Annapolis, MD 21409, USA
Kilgore Falls Trail, Pylesville, MD 21132, USA
Cascade Lake, 8, Hampstead, MD 21074, USA
Elk Neck State Park, 4395 Turkey Point Rd, North East, MD 21901, USA
Gunpowder Falls State Park Hammerman Area, 7200 Graces Quarters Rd, Middle River, MD 21220, USA
Terrapin Trail, College Park, MD, USA