Hancock MarylandBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Hancock, Maryland.
1. C&O Canal National Historical Park
HISTORIC CANAL AND TOWPATH
C&O Canal National Historical Park offers visitors a scenic riverside escape along the historic canal and towpath. The park features easy access to tranquil stretches of the Potomac River, perfect for kayaking, fishing, and enjoying the waterfront views. Its proximity to Hancock makes it a popular recreation spot for locals and travelers exploring Western Maryland.
2. Potomac River Access
BOATING AND FISHING SPOT
The Potomac River provides several access points in Hancock, inviting visitors to enjoy fishing, boating, and riverside picnicking. The calm stretches of river make it ideal for swimming in designated areas and exploring the region's natural beauty. The shoreline along Hancock is a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful waterfront experience.
3. Joseph Hancock Jr. Primitive Park
SMALL RIVERSIDE RETREAT
Joseph Hancock Jr. Primitive Park is nestled near the banks of the Potomac River and offers a quiet spot for picnicking and relaxing by the water. This park is suited for visitors looking for a simple, natural setting to enjoy the river. Its location makes it a hidden gem for those exploring Hancock's water features.
4. Fort Frederick State Park
HISTORIC FORT AND RIVER
Fort Frederick State Park, located just east of Hancock, features a well-preserved 18th-century fort adjacent to the Potomac River. Visitors can enjoy riverside walks, boat access, and picnic areas with scenic views. The park blends history with outdoor recreation along a picturesque riverbank.
5. Cowans Gap State Park
LAKESIDE BEACH AND SWIMMING
Cowans Gap State Park offers a tree-lined lake with a sandy swimming beach just over the Maryland-Pennsylvania border. The clear mountain lake is a favored spot for summer swimmers, kayakers, and picnickers. Its well-kept facilities and beautiful scenery attract families and outdoor adventurers.
6. Berkeley Springs State Park
HISTORIC SPRINGS AND POOLS
Berkeley Springs State Park is famous for its natural mineral springs and historic public bathhouses. Located a short drive from Hancock, the park offers outdoor swimming in a heated pool fed by spring water and opportunities to relax in the tranquil park setting. It's a unique blend of wellness history and riverside leisure.
7. Cacapon Resort State Park
LAKESIDE BEACH AND TRAILS
Cacapon Resort State Park features a large lake with a sandy beach for swimming, surrounded by forested hills and relaxing picnic spots. The park is popular for its water activities, hiking trails, and breathtaking mountain views. Just a short drive from Hancock, it's an inviting escape for nature lovers and families.
8. Rocky Gap State Park
LAKE HABEEB BEACHFRONT
Rocky Gap State Park boasts a large, clean lake with a sandy swimming beach nestled among the mountains. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and lakeside hiking with stunning waterfront vistas. Its resort-like atmosphere makes it a top destination for summer recreation in Western Maryland.
9. Shawnee State Park
EXPANSIVE LAKEFRONT AREA
Shawnee State Park features a spacious man-made lake with a broad beach area for swimming, paddling, and relaxing. The park offers beautiful wooded surroundings, modern amenities, and plenty of open space for families and outdoor activities. Its lakeside charm makes it a popular summer spot not far from the Hancock area.
10. Greenbrier State Park
MOUNTAIN LAKE SWIMMING
Greenbrier State Park is known for its crystal-clear, spring-fed lake with a large sandy beach backed by forested hills. The park offers swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities within a well-maintained natural setting. It is a favorite for day-trippers seeking a classic Maryland lakefront experience.