Berwyn Heights MarylandBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Berwyn Heights, Maryland.
1. Lake Artemesia
SERENE LAKESIDE RETREAT
Lake Artemesia is a 38-acre man-made lake surrounded by parkland, offering scenic trails, fishing piers, and plentiful space for picnics and relaxation. Visitors enjoy boating lessons in the summer and the tranquil natural setting year-round. The lake's location within the Anacostia Trails system makes it a popular hub for walkers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts.
2. Anacostia Riverwalk Trail
SCENIC RIVERSIDE PATHWAY
The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail stretches 21.5 miles along the Anacostia River, connecting forests, wetlands, and riverfront parks. Cyclists, runners, and walkers enjoy immersive views of both natural and urban landscapes along the riverside. The trail provides easy access to waterfront activities and is a favorite for outdoor recreation near Berwyn Heights.
3. Bladensburg Waterfront Park
HISTORIC RIVERSIDE ESCAPE
Bladensburg Waterfront Park offers riverfront relaxation, fishing piers, and boat rentals along the scenic Anacostia River. The park is known for its picturesque trails and opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. Historical markers and wildlife make this a pleasant escape for families and outdoor lovers just minutes from Berwyn Heights.
4. Sandy Point State Park
CHESAPEAKE BAY BEACH
Sandy Point State Park features a popular sandy swimming beach on the Chesapeake Bay, offering panoramic views of the Bay Bridge. It's a destination for swimming, picnicking, and fishing, with lifeguarded areas in summer. The park also provides boat ramps and nature trails, making it a top beach getaway near the D.C. metro area.
5. North Beach
CHESAPEAKE BOARDWALK BEACH
North Beach offers a charming boardwalk, sandy beach, and swimming area along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay. Visitors enjoy strolls on the pier, fishing, and access to nearby shops and eateries. The vibrant atmosphere makes it a favorite for families seeking classic beach fun close to Washington, D.C.
6. Greenbelt Lake Park
TRANQUIL LAKESIDE PARK
Greenbelt Lake Park surrounds a peaceful lake ideal for fishing, hiking, and bird watching. The trail around the lake is popular for walking and running, offering scenic views and spots for picnicking. Its shaded pathways and tranquil waters provide a relaxing escape just northeast of Berwyn Heights.
7. Patapsco Valley State Park – Avalon Area
RIVERFRONT SWIMMING HOLES
Patapsco Valley State Park's Avalon Area is renowned for its riverside beaches and family-friendly swimming holes along the Patapsco River. The park's trails lead through forested terrain to picturesque spots for wading and picnicking. It's a beloved getaway for nature lovers looking for water recreation in a wooded setting.
8. Cunningham Falls State Park
MOUNTAIN LAKE SWIMMING
Cunningham Falls State Park boasts a sandy beach on Hunting Creek Lake nestled in the Catoctin Mountains. Visitors can swim in the lifeguarded area in summer, enjoy hiking to the picturesque waterfall, or picnic along the shore. The park is a top choice for those seeking a freshwater mountain beach day.
9. Seneca Creek State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION HUB
Seneca Creek State Park features a 90-acre lake with a designated swim area, boat rentals, and scenic hiking trails. Families often flock here for picnicking, fishing, and enjoying the shaded lakeside beaches during summer. The park's combination of water access and woodland trails makes it an all-around outdoor favorite.
10. Rock Creek Park – Beach Drive
URBAN RIVERSIDE RETREAT
Rock Creek Park's Beach Drive winds along the creek, offering access to streamside picnicking, wading, and scenic walking or biking. The park's mix of open lawns, wooded areas, and gentle creeks creates a peaceful atmosphere in the heart of the city. While swimming is not permitted in the creek, the park remains a beloved urban waterfront escape.