Is there anything better than summer in the city? Yes, summer at the lake, which is my personal favorite! Luckily, since Washington, DC is so close to both Maryland and Virginia, we’re not far from plenty of beautiful lakes. These bodies of water are perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, and just general lounging. If you’re looking for picture-perfect views and all-around fun, you’ll want to check out the best lakes near Washington DC. We’ve gathered up a few of our favorites that you should visit this summer.

How many of these best lakes near Washington DC have you visited? Are there any others that you think we must visit? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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Best Lakes Near DC

What is one of the best lakes near Washington, DC?

One of the best lakes near Washington DC is Deep Creek Lake in Maryland! It's about a three-hour drive, but totally worth the time in the car. The lake is absolutely gorgeous and has some of the clearest water around.

What are some other things to do in the summer in Washington, DC?

Some other things to do in the summer around Washington DC include summer day trips like:

  • Visiting the natural waterslide at Cedar Run Falls in Shenandoah Valley
  • Relaxing in the Jefferson Pools in DC
  • Hiking at Catoctin Mountain Park

 

What are the best water parks near Washington, DC?

One of the best waterparks near DC is Great Waves Waterpark with its 20 acres of summer fun in the sun. You'll find slides, splash pads, and a giant wave pool that's an absolute blast.