Lakes around Savage, Maryland, are situated in Howard County, an area characterized by a mix of suburban development and natural landscapes. This region offers various lakes that provide recreational opportunities and natural escapes. The area's geography includes reservoirs and man-made lakes, often surrounded by trails and parks. These bodies of water serve as focal points for outdoor activities within a densely populated urban corridor.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
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Patuxent Research Refuge is a beautiful mix of tranquil forest, meadow, and wetlands, spanning 13,000 acres nestled in the heart of a densely populated urban area. It is home to a wide variety of bird species, and plenty of other wildlife. It is a spectacular place to spend the day immersing yourself and connecting with nature while you explore the trails.
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Centennial Lake is an attractive suburban lake that is open from 7:00 a.m. to dusk. There is a large paved path that goes around the lake that is popular with walkers, joggers, and cyclists. There is also a boat launch (but you need a boating permit), which is a popular spot for fishing.
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This pretty suburban lake is open from 7:00 a.m. to dusk. It has a boat launch (you need a boating permit) and is popular for fishing; people catch large channel catfish here. You can also walk a paved trail that goes all the way around the lake.
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Lake “Kitt” is a lovely lake that was constructed during the development of Columbia, it has an area of 27-acres. The name of the lake comes from the name of the first Native American settlement in Howard County, and it means “meeting place”. The path around the lake is a nice multi-use paved trail with access to a wood deck, offering an enjoyable biking day.
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Lake Elkhorn is a 37-acre reservoir and is Columbia, Maryland's largest lake. There is a paved two-mile path around the lake that was built in 1982.
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At 37 acres in size, Lake Elkhorn is the 3rd largest lake in Columbia and features a number of paths and trails near its banks. The main loop around the water is completely paved, but there are a bunch of other trails and paths that intersect it, too.
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At 37 acres in size, Lake Elkhorn is the 3rd largest lake in Columbia and features a number of paths and trails near its banks. The main loop around the water is completely paved, but there are a bunch of other trails and paths that intersect it, too.
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Lake Kittamaquni is a resservoir close to Columbia Mall, spanning 27 acres (110,000 m2). A nice trail leads around the water's edge. The lake is named after Kittamaqundi village, the first Indian settlement in Howard Country, 40 miles (64 km) away. It translates to 'meeting place' in the tribe's language.
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The most popular lakes in the area include Lake Elkhorn, known for its paved two-mile path and various intersecting trails, and Centennial Lake, a suburban lake popular for fishing and walking its paved perimeter trail. Visitors also enjoy Lake Kittamaqundi, which offers a multi-use paved trail and a wood deck for biking.
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Lake Elkhorn is family-friendly with its paved trails suitable for strollers and bikes. Centennial Lake and Lake Kittamaqundi also offer pleasant paved paths for walks and activities with children. Additionally, Savage Park, which links to Lake Elkhorn, provides recreational facilities like playgrounds and picnic areas.
Lake Elkhorn is a dog-friendly option, offering paved paths where you can walk your dog. Always ensure your pet is on a leash and you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant environment for all visitors.
Yes, Lake Elkhorn features a paved two-mile main loop trail around its perimeter, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. This allows everyone to enjoy the lakeside scenery.
The lakes around Savage offer various outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, jogging, and cycling on the paved trails surrounding lakes like Lake Elkhorn, Centennial Lake, and Lake Kittamaqundi. Fishing is popular at Centennial Lake, and boating is permitted there with a permit. For more extensive outdoor adventures, you can explore nearby routes for road cycling, running, and general cycling. Find more details on these activities in the Road Cycling Routes around Savage, Running Trails around Savage, and Cycling around Savage guides.
Centennial Lake is a popular spot for fishing, with channel catfish often caught there. For a more rugged fishing experience, the Savage River Reservoir in Western Maryland is known for multi-species fishing, including walleye, bass, and trout, though it's a bit further afield.
Yes, Centennial Lake features a boat launch, though a boating permit is required. For the Savage River Reservoir, boating is permitted with electric motors or non-motorized boats only, and gasoline motors must be removed before launching. These options provide opportunities for kayaking and other non-motorized boating.
The lakes around Savage, Maryland, are set amidst a mix of suburban development and natural landscapes. You can expect to see serene lake waters, surrounding woodlands, and various types of wildlife, especially birds. The Patuxent Research Refuge, which includes wetlands, forests, and meadows, is home to a wide variety of bird species and other wildlife, offering excellent nature observation opportunities.
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for walking, cycling, and other outdoor activities without the summer heat or winter chill. Summer is ideal for water-based activities like boating, while the fall foliage provides a beautiful backdrop for lakeside strolls.
While the lakes themselves are primarily natural or recreational, Lake Kittamaqundi holds cultural significance as its name comes from Kittamaqundi village, the first Native American settlement in Howard County, meaning 'meeting place.' For more local history, you can visit Savage Park, which offers links to Lake Elkhorn and is part of the broader Savage area with its own historical context.
Parking is generally available at the popular lake destinations. For instance, Savage Park, which offers links to Lake Elkhorn, provides parking facilities. Specific parking details for other lakes like Centennial Lake and Lake Kittamaqundi are typically found on local park websites or signage at the locations themselves.
Visitors appreciate the serene natural escapes and the ample opportunities for outdoor exercise. The paved trails around lakes like Lake Elkhorn are highly valued for walking, jogging, and biking. The ability to enjoy fishing, boating, and simply relaxing by the water in a natural setting close to urban areas is a major draw.


Still not found your perfect lake around Savage? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.