I’ve been visiting Lake Elkhorn, in Columbia, MD, for longer than two decades. Years of walking dogs around the lake has made the lake familiar and comforting. It’s one of my favorite places in Columbia, and despite its local popularity, it’s restful and relaxing.
Lake Elkhorn is a 37-acre reservoir located in the Owen Brown area of Columbia. It is Columbia’s third and largest lake. Its main features are a small dam and a park with a picnic pavilion. It is surrounded by a park and townhouses. The lake, which was built in 1974, is named for the Elkhorn branch of the Little Patuxent River.
But recently, I experienced Lake Elkhorn differently — from on the water rather than from the shore. We spent little over an hour paddling from one end of the lake to the other, enjoying the evening and the changing vistas.
In addition to the lovely scenery, you are likely to see great blue heron, Canada geese, ducks, green heron, and very probably beaver.
Know before you go: To kayak on Lake Elkhorn you must bring your own — there are no kayak, canoe, or paddle boat rentals available. There are two boat ramps for canoes and kayaks.
Getting there: 7200 Dockside Ln, Columbia, MD 21045-5019
Hours: Whenever, but best when it’s light out!
For other great places to kayak in Maryland, check out the places below:
Blackwater River/Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Kayaking
Centennial Lake / Preparing for Kayaking Adventures
C&O Canal at Swain’s Lock
Daniels, MD
Lake Clopper / Seneca Creek State Park
Lake Elkhorn
Little Seneca Lake
Mallows Bay Shipwrecks
Patapsco River
Piney Run Park
Potomac River
Wetipquin Creek (Nanticoke River Water Trail)
Wicomico River
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