The summertime or hot weather anywhere usually calls for swimming. Most people enjoy swimming as one of the activities when they travel locally, nationally or internationally. This piece will be for those who travel to Maryland this summer for fun, including those who live in the state, but have not really explored swimming holes.
There are several swimming holes in Maryland, but we are just going to explore five swimming holes in the state. Waterfalls have swim holes that are naturally created. Great swim holes can also be found in rivers, creeks, and even large streams.
This are usually fresh moving waters online like lakes or the ocean. It also has to be large and deep enough for swimming. Depending on where you are, they can be known as water holes, pond or just a swimming hole.
One of the best five swimming holes in Maryland is Cunningham State Park. This park has a lake with a beach for swimming, kayaking and fishing. There are also lots of tables and pavilions for picnics.
Entry fees into the park is $3 per person during the week for residents. Out of state folks pay $5 per person. Take note that fees might increase during the holidays. Be sure to check the website before planning your visit.
To enjoy a great spot to lay out and spend the day, you have to plan to arrive as early as possible and wait in line to enter the earlier the better, though park opens at 8am. The staff here are very helpful and will facilitate a fast entry for you and give directions to park. An added perk to this location is the short and structured trail that leads to the waterfall.
Calvert Cliff State Park is another one of the five best swimming holes in Maryland. This park is located in Lusby, Calvert County. It protects a portion of the cliffs, extending about 24 miles along the eastern flank of Calvert peninsular of the west side of the Chesapeake Bay. At this park the entry fees are per vehicle not per person. (Great deal) in my opinion. You will enjoy a good time spending the day at this park following the trails.
Not that getting to the cliff and the beach for swimming will require a 2mile walk to and from. Nonetheless, it is worth the walk once you get there and begin to enjoy the sand and the water. The view of the cliffs is and added bonus. This little beach is tucked away from the maddening crowd. Great place to spend the day swimming and picnicking without the hassle of large crowds.
I will be remis if I don’t mention Kilgore Falls as one of the best five swimming holes in Maryland. This is also called the Rock State Park, which is located in Pylesville Maryland. This swimming hole is one of my favorites. It is the 2nd highest free-falling waterfalls in the state.
A great place for family fun and to juts relax in a natural environment. Watching the falls itself as you swim can be very exciting. There are lovely paths made from rocks, a small stream to cross as you navigate the trails. Very short trail to this massive waterfall. Only about ten minutes from the parking. Be sure to wear waterproof shoes.
It is advisable to go early, since there are not a lot of packing spaces available. (Very few to be precise) Preferably go during the week to avoid the crowds. Park opens at 8am. I would advise you take some sanitary items like toilet paper/paper towels, hand sanitizers. Check the website before planning your visit. Due to the pandemic, you might now need to have a permit or might need to make a reservation. Once you reach the falls, you feel transported into a different world. You can play around with water, stay close to nature and have fun all at the same time.
Best swimming holes in Maryland will not be complete without talking about the Sandy Point Beach Park This is another great swimming location coming out of the Chesapeake Bay with greats views of the Bay bridge. If and when it rains, you should wait about two days before visiting.
This park is great for swimming with young kids because they have lifeguards on duty for safety. The beach and swim area are quite vast, so you can spread out as much as you like and feel like you are at a private beach. There are also lots of tables, grills and space for kids to play out of the water and for the family to enjoy grilling.
To enjoy your summer swimming activity on the beach and at any swim holes, you need to remember the following:
- Plan to go early to get packing and sitting space
- Check opening and closing times
- Check weather, some locations will close if there is rain/thunderstorms in the forecast
- Pack some wet wipes, paper towels, hand sanitizers, mosquito repellants, suntan lotions
- Drinks, food, snacks and more
- Wear appropriate shoes and clothing. Pack extras just incase
- Check website to know the fees and have it ready
- Look out for other restrictions that might affect your trip
For more information you can check the official website for the department of natural resources in Maryland,