Lake with Marshy Shoreline

Liberty Reservoir Vacation Rentals

Liberty Reservoir, Maryland, United States
39.4179° N, -76.8789° W
Liberty Reservoir
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Liberty Reservoir, a sprawling 9,200-acre expanse in western Baltimore County and eastern Carroll County, Maryland, is a paradise for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and family travelers alike. This reservoir, owned by the City of Baltimore, is fed by the North Branch of the Patapsco River and is managed as a Cooperative Wildlife Management Area in partnership with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Here, you can embark on hiking trails like the Coots Peninsula Loop, a 4.2-mile journey through verdant woods and along the water’s edge, offering serene vistas and inviting spots to fish or simply appreciate nature. The area is also open to rowing, paddle boating, horseback riding, and nature photography year-round, with archery hunting available during regulated seasons.

Adjacent to Liberty Reservoir is the Soldiers Delight Natural Environmental Area, renowned for its rare Serpentine Barren habitat, and sections of Patapsco Valley State Park, providing additional opportunities for exploration. For those interested in local history, the area once was a thriving mill town, now submerged beneath the reservoir’s pristine waters. After a day of adventure, head to nearby Eldersburg and indulge in the excellent beer and expansive indoor and outdoor seating at 1623 Brewing Company, a perfect cap to an active and enriching day.

Surface area (mi)
7.83
Max depth (ft)
144.36
Elevation (ft)
419.95
Shoreline length (mi)
81.4
Best time to go
Visit Liberty Reservoir in late spring—especially May—when nature bursts into vivid bloom and the gentle sun warms the landscape. Ideal for kayaking and fishing, the reservoir is peaceful with fewer crowds. Enjoy clear waters and enchanting dusk views as migratory birds serenade your journey.
Water Quality
Liberty Reservoir's waters are deep blue with crystal-clear clarity, offering a pristine environment for various recreational activities.

Ideal for

  • Family friendly:
  • Pet friendly:
  • Romantic getaways:

Popular activities

  • Kayaking
  • Boating
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
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Marinas on Liberty Reservoir Vacation Rentals

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Liberty Reservoir Vacation Rentals has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, swimming is not allowed in Liberty Reservoir. It is prohibited due to dangers such as varying depths, hidden rocks, and underwater currents, and “No Swimming” signs are posted around the reservoir.

  • Liberty Reservoir is a popular destination because it offers various recreational activities. It is open to hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, nature photography, boating, fishing, and birding. The reservoir’s clear waters and surrounding undeveloped shoreline lined with trees also make it appealing for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Boats allowed on Liberty Reservoir in Maryland include rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and runabouts, but only with rowing, paddling, or battery-powered motors. A seasonal permit from the City of Baltimore Reservoir Natural Resources Office is required. Boats must be between 12 and 20 feet long.

  • There is no public beach at Liberty Reservoir. Swimming is not allowed in the reservoir to protect the water quality. The area is open for other activities like hiking, boating, and fishing.

  • Liberty Reservoir is near the towns of Eldersburg, Sykesville, and Westminster. It spans the border between Baltimore and Carroll Counties, with access points in these areas. The reservoir is also close to other towns in Carroll County, such as Hampstead and Manchester.