Take a peek at these perfect summer opportunities that shouldn’t be missed (shown in order of distance from Dulles Airport):

Greenbrier State Park
Boonsboro, MD ∙ Approx 55 miles from Dulles Airport

The park’s man-made lake is a fantastic place to spend the day with your family. Enjoy the sandy beaches with designated swimming areas, tree-shaded picnic areas, and the opportunity to rent a canoe or paddleboat. Once you’re done basking in the warm sun, enjoy a family hike — the Appalachian Trail passes right through the park! You’ll be thankful for their bathroom facilities, and during peak times, the area near the beach offers food and refreshments at the snack bar. Please note that the park often reaches capacity and denies entry on beautiful days, so come early to claim your spot.

Cunningham Falls State Park
Thurmont, MD ∙ Approx 60 miles from Dulles Airport

Enjoy the gorgeous Catoctin Mountain view and glistening Hunting Creek Lake at Cunningham Falls State Park! Grab the family for a day of fun and enjoy their sandy beach with lifeguard coverage from Memorial Day to Labor Day (scheduled but not guaranteed). Plus, enjoy a day of walking/hiking, too! Trails at the park vary in terrain from short, flat hikes to steep and rocky ascents. The “Falls Nature Trail” will lead you to the largest cascading waterfall in Maryland: the towering Cunningham Falls (please note that swimming is prohibited at the falls).

Patapsco Valley State Park
Ellicott City, MD ∙ Approx 60 miles from Dulles Airport

Discover beautiful scenery along the Patapsco River in the Patapsco Valley State Park! Over 200 miles of trails, including dozens of miles of maintained trails, offer plenty of recreational opportunities, including hiking, picnicking, camping, horseback riding, and mountain biking! Water lovers can also take a dip in the river (unless otherwise noted), as swimming, paddling, and tubing are all permitted in this park.

Aquia Landing
Stafford, VA ∙ Approx 60 miles from Dulles Airport

Cool off and take a dip at Aquia Landing, Stafford County’s very own waterfront park. Home to marshes and woodlands, this unique destination attracts songbirds, marshbirds, waterfowl, and terns, making it perfect for birdwatching during a day of swimming and exploring! The park, located on a peninsula, also boasts a fishing spot, along with woodlands perfect for daytime discovery and fun. Public swimming is permitted; however, always check before visiting, as conditions are subject to change.

Sandy Point State Park
Annapolis, MD ∙ Approx 65 miles from Dulles Airport

Sandy Point State Park, set on the Chesapeake Bay’s northwestern shore, is a welcome natural retreat with enough amenities to keep family travels civilized. Its sandy, swimmable beaches offer lifeguards in select areas. A bathhouse near the beach provides park users with restroom and shower facilities. A concession stand, beach, and picnic supplies are also available at the South Beach area of the park during peak summer months. The park’s grassy picnic areas are next to the swimming beach and playgrounds. Limited grills and picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Brownie’s Beach at Bay Front Park
Chesapeake Beach, MD ∙ Approx 65 miles from Dulles Airport

Come out to enjoy the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay at Brownie’s Beach at Bay Front Park. This small, sandy beach is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. This popular destination for swimmers and nature lovers does not have lifeguards on duty. Please note that access is restricted to Chesapeake Beach town residents and their guests — the beach is no longer open to the general public, and non-residents cannot purchase entry.

North Beach
North Beach, MD ∙ Approx 65 miles from Dulles Airport

Swim the day away in North Beach, the “Jewel of the Chesapeake Bay!” Located on the Bay’s western shore, this Maryland getaway is home to plenty of special events and outdoor activities throughout the year. Residents can show proof of residency, while visitors can purchase a beach pass. Either way, soak up the sun during the warmer summer months! Rent a paddleboard and kayak, or peruse the town and its boardwalk on a bicycle for a unique experience! While visiting the “Best Bay Town,” don’t forget to explore Wetlands Overlook Park and enjoy some of the best North Beach businesses and shops!

Mayo Beach Park
Edgewater, MD ∙ Approx 65 miles from Dulles Airport

Let the sand slide between your toes this summer at beautiful Mayo Beach Park! This Anne Arundel County park boasts a shallow beach area perfect for water play and wading. From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, all guests need a free reservation pass to enter the park on weekends and holidays, so be sure to reserve yours online before you go. Note that lifeguards are not on site and this is an unprotected swimming beach, so swim at your own risk. Plan to pack a lunch, bring your canoe, kayak, or water toys, and enjoy a day in the sun.

Beaver Dam Swimming Club
Cockeysville, MD ∙ Approx 75 miles from Dulles Airport

The Beaver Dam Swimming Club is a deep freshwater quarry with an infamous rope swing — the club recommends it for strong swimmers only. Two shallower pools offer a better fit for families with younger children. Certified lifeguards are stationed at both the pools and the quarry. The club also provides shaded areas with grills for picnics and cookouts, as well as a snack bar. Sand volleyball courts are available for use, too.

North Point State Park
Edgemere, MD ∙ Approx 75 miles from Dulles Airport

Located on the Chesapeake Bay, this state park includes the site of the former Bay Shore Park, which was one of the state’s premier amusement parks during the first half of the 20th century. The park features restored remnants of the old amusement park, hiking trails that lead you around and through protected wildlands, and a sandy shoreline perfect for wading and swimming.

Rocky Point Beach & Park
Essex, MD ∙ Approx 75 miles from Dulles Airport

Rocky Point Beach is a waterfront park near the Back and Middle Rivers, the perfect place to cool off in the Baltimore area. The beach features pavilions, a fishing pier, picnic areas, boating ramps, and a bathhouse. The Baltimore County Sailing Center is nearby, and visitors can take private or group lessons. Just want to lie in the sun? The beach offers views of the pretty Chesapeake Bay, Craighill Light, and Hart-Miller Island.

Beach at Kentmorr Restaurant
Stevensville, MD ∙ Approx 80 miles from Dulles Airport

Enjoy the beautiful outdoors at Kentmorr Beach! Located on the Kentmorr Restaurant and Crab House property, this private beach is a fabulous destination for families looking to relax, fish, and play in the sand. The breathtaking scenery lends itself to a day of sightseeing and swimming, too. Beach access policies have changed in recent years and may be limited to restaurant patrons, so call ahead before you go. Visitors must also abide by the beach rules, which prohibit outside food and beverages on the property — all food and drink must be purchased on-site.

Gunpowder Falls State Park
Middle River, MD ∙ Approx 80 miles from Dulles Airport

Gunpowder Falls, one of Maryland’s largest state parks, offers a wide range of activities, including swimming! Enjoy a long stretch of beach and a swimming area on the banks of the Gunpowder River. The beach offers visitors picnic tables, grills, playgrounds, food concessions, and several picnic pavilions that can be rented. There are also bathrooms with showers. Please note that swimming at the Hammerman Area beach is unguarded — no lifeguards are provided, so swim at your own risk. Other activities include boat rentals, fishing, and hiking trails. The beach is known to get filled on weekends and holidays, so plan to arrive early!

Lake Arrowhead
Luray, VA ∙ Approx 80 miles from Dulles Airport

Lake Arrowhead is a man-made lake located near Luray, VA. It offers swimming, fishing, boating, and a picturesque setting at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The white-sand beach is open for swimming every day during the summer under the watch of lifeguards. Concessions and public restrooms are also on-site, making this a family-friendly venue. Canoes and paddleboats are available for rent on the half-hour, but they rent quickly, so hurry!

Lake Anna State Park
Spotsylvania, VA ∙ Approx 85 miles from Dulles Airport

With so many options, Lake Anna can be visited for just a day or weeks at a time! Families can camp or rent a cabin and bring their boats, bikes, and horses for outdoor adventure. Although there is a fee to come and swim, lifeguards are on duty, and concession stands and bathrooms are open on the beach. A multi-mile trail is also available for walking, biking, and horseback riding. There’s always something to do at this beautiful state park for families looking for quality time outside!

Greenwell State Park
Hollywood, MD ∙ Approx 85 miles from Dulles Airport

St. Mary’s County is home to beautiful Greenwell State Park on the Patuxent River. The park invites visitors to fish, hike, cycle, and horseback ride along its miles of trails all year! Other seasonal activities include picnicking, hunting, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. Managed in part by The Greenwell Foundation, Greenwell State Park also offers accessible and inclusive programs, services, and facilities to ensure that all community members can enjoy all that this park has to offer. Don’t forget to visit the Rosedale Manor House to see its immaculate Victorian-style rose garden and enjoy an outstanding river view.

Flag Ponds Nature Park
Lusby, MD ∙ Approx 85 miles from Dulles Airport

For hundreds of years, the forces of nature have reshaped the Chesapeake Bay shoreline of Flag Ponds Nature Park, creating a remarkable variety of natural environments — from sandy beaches to freshwater ponds to the forested heights of Calvert Cliffs. Flag Ponds Nature Park offers a beautiful beach right on the Chesapeake Bay. Fossil hunting is popular here, and visitors can also enjoy swimming (no lifeguards are on duty). A short, half-mile hike brings you to the sandy beach, or you may take longer trail routes that allow you to experience the park’s beauty. Additionally, there are observation platforms at two ponds, a fishing pier on the Chesapeake Bay, and a visitor’s center with wildlife displays.

Calvert Cliffs State Park
Lusby, MD ∙ Approx 90 miles from Dulles Airport

The massive cliffs, from which Calvert Cliffs State Park was named, dominate the shoreline of the Chesapeake Bay in Calvert County and were formed millions of years ago when a warm, shallow sea covered all of Southern Maryland. When the sea receded, the cliffs were exposed and began eroding. Today, these cliffs reveal the remains of prehistoric species, including sharks, whales, rays, and seabirds — some the size of small airplanes! The park also features a sandy beach, a recycled-tire playground, fishing, a freshwater/tidal marsh, and miles of hiking trails. Please note that the shortest route to the beach is 1.8 miles on the red trail, and no lifeguard is present. Despite the hike, the trip is well worth it at this popular destination.

Myrtle Point Park
California, MD ∙ Approx 90 miles from Dulles Airport

Myrtle Point Park, located in St. Mary’s County on the Patuxent River near the Chesapeake Bay, contains numerous historic sites — some dating back thousands of years — as well as a magnificent waterfront and saltwater ponds that are home to various wildlife! The park offers miles of shoreline, including beach areas, an informal canoe/kayak launch area, hiking trails, parking, and portable restroom facilities. An online hiking and guide map of the park’s trails is available for download.

Rocks State Park
Jarrettsville, MD ∙ Approx 100 miles from Dulles Airport

Plan a day of excitement, activity, and exploration at Rocks State Park! Among the hundreds of acres of scenic forests, preserved structural remains, and trails, visitors will also find Deer Creek! Perfect for wading, tubing, or fishing, Deer Creek is a wonderful and secluded spot to rest, relax, and enjoy nature in all its glory. Plus, guests looking to explore the natural beauty of Rocks State Park a little more will also find Falling Branch (Kilgore) Falls, a few miles north of the central park. Enjoy a picturesque hiking trail on your way to Maryland’s second-highest waterfall!

Elm’s Beach Park
Lexington Park, MD ∙ Approx 100 miles from Dulles Airport

Spend the day at Elm’s Beach Park on the Chesapeake Bay, which boasts hundreds of feet of sandy shoreline, great for swimming or fishing, and crabbing on the pier. The excellent water views will enhance your picnic or hiking experience — many trails and pavilion seating areas (for rent) with grills offer front-row views of the Bay. A playground and acres of open green space allow kids plenty of room to run around. A changing area and parking are available on-site. The cost for out-of-county residents is $10 per car or $5 for St. Mary’s County residents.

Point Lookout State Park
Scotland, MD ∙ Approx 105 miles from Dulles Airport

Point Lookout State Park is a picturesque peninsula formed by the Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac River. Swimming, fishing, boating, and camping are just a few activities to enjoy in this beautiful bay setting! The sandy beach has a designated swimming area with lifeguards, grills, picnic tables, and a playground. Point Lookout State Park also offers a park store stocked with snacks, ice cream, drinks, bait, ice, souvenirs, boat fuel, and camping and picnicking supplies. Canoe rentals are also available! Plus, you can stop by the Civil War Museum/Marshland Nature Center!

Elk Neck State Park
North East, MD ∙ Approx 115 miles from Dulles Airport

Nature lovers will delight in all that Elk Neck State Park offers! Located on a peninsula, this expansive park has opportunities to connect with and enjoy nature. Marshlands, woods, cliffs, and beaches make for wonderful hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and swimming adventures. Miles of hiking trails for all skill levels make traveling the park fun for all. Visitors will want to visit Turkey Point Lighthouse at the southern tip of the peninsula and take in the beautiful view of the Chesapeake Bay.

Rocky Gap State Park
Flintstone, MD ∙ Approx 120 miles from Dulles Airport

Allegany County, MD, is home to Rocky Gap State Park, a beautiful destination offering a variety of activities and programs to visitors across thousands of acres! As one of Western Maryland’s most popular parks, Rocky Gap State Park is home to a picturesque hemlock forest, and visitors will delight in boating, fishing, and swimming in Lake Habeeb, which overlooks Evitt’s Mountain. Spend time hunting, hiking, or visiting the Nature Center to partake in some of the park’s interpretive activities and programs. Campers will enjoy lodging in one of the mini cabins available on-site or being tucked away in the one-of-a-kind Easter Hill Chalet.

Betterton Beach
Betterton, MD ∙ Approx 125 miles from Dulles Airport

Betterton Beach is a landscaped waterfront park with hundreds of feet of frontage for swimming and plenty of shoreline access. This family-oriented beach area includes a bathhouse with public restrooms, a boardwalk, lighting, accessible entry, a fishing jetty, and a public pier. Be sure to bring a picnic and enjoy the pavilion located on a bay-view bluff!

Sherando Lake
Lyndhurst, VA ∙ Approx 135 miles from Dulles Airport

Sherando Lake, divided into upper and lower, offers many recreational opportunities for families. Lower Sherando is the larger of the two, a broad expanse of cool, spring-fed waters available for swimming, fishing, or relaxing on the sandy beach. Many hiking opportunities abound, including the Blue Loop Trail, the Lakeside Trail, and the Torry Ridge Trail, which leads to Bald Knob. Weekend campfire programs are held at the amphitheater from Memorial Day through Labor Day, along with other seasonal events and family activities.

Via the Virginia Department of Conservation & Recreation, check out these other Virginia State Parks that offer swimming, too:

Via the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, check out these other Maryland State Parks that offer swimming, too:

Keep safety top of mind and swim at your own risk (many areas with shorelines and water access do not have lifeguards and are subject to tides, currents, and weather-related changes).

Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Updated Jul 22, 2026

Freshwater Swimming @ Lakes, Bays, & Quarries