Lakes around Fulton offer a variety of natural and man-made water bodies for outdoor activities. This region features several reservoirs and lakes, many of which are integrated into local park systems. These areas provide opportunities for hiking, boating, and fishing. The landscape includes both developed parklands and more secluded natural settings.
Last updated: July 22, 2026
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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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The 800-acre reservoir is situated directly behind the Brighton Dam on the Patuxent River. You can enjoy a nice view of the reservoir from the sidewalk along the dam.
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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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Built in 1943, Brighton Dam allowed the formation of Triadelphia Reservoir. The lake holds an incredible amount of water – 6.3 billion gallons to be precise! Around the dam and reservoir, you can enjoying hiking, picnicking, horseback riding, boating, fishing and hunting (permit required).
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This guide focuses on lakes in the Fulton area of Maryland, specifically around Columbia, where you can find lakes like Lake Elkhorn and Centennial Lake. It does not cover lakes in Fulton County, New York, or Fulton County, Georgia.
Visitors frequently enjoy Lake Elkhorn, known for its paved two-mile path and intersecting trails. Centennial Lake is another favorite, offering a paved trail around its entirety, fishing, and boating. The Brighton Dam and Triadelphia Reservoir is also highly regarded for its extensive recreational opportunities.
Yes, several lakes offer easy walking trails. Lake Elkhorn features a paved two-mile path, and Centennial Lake has a paved trail that circles the entire lake. Lake Kittamaqundi also has a multi-use paved trail around its edge.
Most of the lakes in this guide are considered family-friendly. Lake Elkhorn, Centennial Lake, and Lake Kittamaqundi all offer amenities and activities suitable for families, including paved trails for walking and cycling.
Yes, Lake Elkhorn is noted as dog-friendly, offering paths and trails near its banks where you can walk your dog.
Lake Elkhorn is wheelchair accessible, featuring a main loop around the water that is completely paved, making it suitable for visitors using wheelchairs.
The lakes offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, fishing, and boating. For specific routes, explore the hiking trails around Fulton or the road cycling routes in the area. Many lakes, like Centennial Lake, are popular for fishing and have boat launches.
Absolutely. Lakes like Lake Elkhorn and Centennial Lake have paved trails perfect for walks. The Brighton Dam and Triadelphia Reservoir also offers extensive hiking opportunities. You can find various hiking routes around Fulton, including easy options like the Lake Elkhorn loop.
Fishing is a popular activity. At Centennial Lake, people often catch large channel catfish. The Triadelphia Reservoir also provides fishing opportunities, though specific species are not detailed in the guide.
Yes, boating is available on several lakes. Centennial Lake has a boat launch, though a boating permit is required. The Triadelphia Reservoir also allows boating.
While specific seasonal recommendations are not provided, the lakes are generally open from early morning until dusk. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, while summer is ideal for boating and fishing.
The Brighton Dam and Triadelphia Reservoir is an 800-acre reservoir formed by Brighton Dam, built in 1943. It holds 6.3 billion gallons of water and offers a wide range of activities including hiking, picnicking, horseback riding, boating, fishing, and even hunting (with a permit). You can enjoy scenic views of the reservoir from the sidewalk along the dam.


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