Smithsburg MarylandBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Smithsburg, Maryland.
1. Greenbrier State Park
LAKESIDE BEACH AND SWIMMING
Greenbrier State Park is known for its scenic 42-acre man-made freshwater lake with a sandy swimming beach, attracting families and nature lovers. The park offers designated swimming areas, picnic facilities, and hiking trails that wind through the surrounding forest. It is a favorite summertime destination for those seeking lakeside relaxation and easy access from Smithsburg.
2. Cunningham Falls State Park
WATERFALL AND LAKE RETREAT
Cunningham Falls State Park is popular for its tranquil lake with a sandy beach for swimming, along with Maryland's tallest cascading waterfall. The park provides boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities, making it ideal for a waterfront escape in the Catoctin Mountains. Families enjoy the clear, cool swimming area surrounded by natural beauty and picnic spaces.
3. Gunpowder Falls State Park, Hammerman Area
RIVERFRONT SANDY BEACH
Gunpowder Falls State Park's Hammerman Area features a wide sandy beach along the Gunpowder River, perfect for swimming and picnicking. Lifeguards are on duty in season, and the area boasts playgrounds, picnic tables, and grills near the waterfront. Its family-friendly facilities and natural setting make it a top spot for a riverside day trip.
4. Sandy Point State Park
CHESAPEAKE BAY BEACH
Sandy Point State Park is famed for its broad sandy beach on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay, offering stunning views of the iconic Bay Bridge. The park provides swimming, fishing, and boating, with convenient amenities and picnic spots. Its popularity stems from its accessibility and classic beach atmosphere near Maryland's capital.
5. Assateague Island National Seashore
WILD OCEANFRONT EXPERIENCE
Assateague Island National Seashore is celebrated for its wild Atlantic beaches, famous wild horses, and unspoiled dunes. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and exploring miles of oceanfront shoreline. The park offers a unique combination of natural beauty and wildlife encounters along Maryland's Atlantic coast.
6. Ocean City Beach
MARYLAND'S PREMIER SEASIDE
Ocean City Beach stretches for ten miles along the Atlantic Ocean, offering soft sand, swimming, and a vibrant boardwalk. The beach is a magnet for families, groups, and sunseekers, with lifeguards, concessions, and entertainment nearby. Its lively atmosphere and extensive amenities make it Maryland's most popular oceanfront destination.
7. Betterton Beach
CHESAPEAKE BAY SWIMMING
Betterton Beach provides a less-crowded sandy swimming area on the Upper Chesapeake Bay, favored by locals for its calm waters and scenic views. The beach includes picnic tables, pavilions, and bathhouses, making it comfortable for family outings. Its picturesque setting and easy access make it a hidden gem for waterfront relaxation.
8. North Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WATERFRONT
North Beach boasts a charming boardwalk and sandy shore along the Chesapeake Bay, providing a safe environment for swimming and sunbathing. Its downtown area features shops, food vendors, and seasonal events within walking distance of the beach. With gentle waves and shallow entry, it's particularly popular with families and younger children.
9. Lions Community Park
LOCAL PARK WITH POND
Lions Community Park in Smithsburg offers a peaceful retreat with a small pond and open green space, ideal for picnics and light outdoor recreation. While swimming is not available, the park provides a pleasant waterside atmosphere for relaxing by the pond. It's a favorite local gathering spot for families and community events.
10. Cowans Gap State Park
MOUNTAIN LAKE GETAWAY
Cowans Gap State Park, located just north of Smithsburg across the Pennsylvania border, features a 42-acre lake with a sandy beach for swimming and boating. The park is surrounded by forested mountains, offering scenic vistas, hiking trails, and picnic facilities. Its clear lake waters and tranquil environment make it a top outdoor escape in the region.