Discover the Oldest Man-Made Lake in Maryland

While small, Maryland is home to over 100 lakes that all have one thing in common: they are all man-made. However, this does not make these lakes any less beautiful.

They have the most amazing scenery, and most of the lakes in the state don’t allow gas-powered motors, resulting in a stress-free, quiet, and relaxing atmosphere. In addition, they offer plenty of recreational opportunities. So, when did locals start constructing these lakes?

In this article, you will learn about the oldest man-made lake in Maryland, including its history, recreational activities, and more.

The Oldest Man-made Lake in Maryland

Lake Roland is the oldest man-made lake in Maryland. Construction began in 1858, and the lake was eventually completed in 1861, becoming Baltimore’s first municipal water supply. Lake Roland is connected to Jones Falls Valley, a stream that runs through the city of Baltimore and empties at the harbor.

The lake forms part of Lake Roland Park, which spans over 503 acres of breathtaking ecosystems, including meadows, wetlands, and mature hardwood forests. This lake is historically significant, not just because it is the oldest man-made lake in Maryland, but also because it has two National Register Historic Districts.

Lake Roland is under Baltimore County’s management, but they have a 100-year lease agreement with Baltimore City.

What Is the History of Lake Roland?

The area where Lake Roland is situated was granted to several Maryland families in the 18^th century by Lord Baltimore himself. While the lake’s construction began in 1858, the park surrounding the lake was established much later in 1920. Lake Roland was created as a water source for Baltimore. The dam by Jones Falls was the site of multiple mills and a gunpowder factory.

However, they were all bought for their water rights in the late 1850s. The dam’s construction began in 1860, specifically to create Lake Roland. As a result, the dam flooded the factory and mill sites, but you can still see the factory buildings when the lake’s water is low.

Water from Lake Roland was also pumped to Hampden Reservoir, which supplied Woodberry, Hampden, and the cotton mills for industrial, personal, and fire protection use.

Are There Any Recreational Activities Available at Lake Roland?

Yes! The oldest man-made lake in Maryland has numerous recreational activities. This includes more than 500 acres with multiple trails, waterfront activities like kayaking and canoeing, a dog park, nature and environmental programs, a nature center, and a playground.

The park also features amenities like:

• Two pavilions with scenic water views, which guests can rent for general use or special events.
• Ranger Station: where rangers provide educational programming.
• Paw Point: An off-leash dog park with access to the water.
• Pedestrian bridge: Provides easy access from the Main Peninsula to Lakeside Drive, MTA Boardwalk, ranger stations, and the main hiking trails.
• Acorn Hill: A natural playground for children.
• A boardwalk from the Falls Road Light Rail Station: Guests can arrive by light rail or bus and easily access the park via the boardwalk.
• Extensive trail improvements
• Expanded parking facilities
• A refurbished trestle bridge
• Fishing pier facility
• Picnic tables with panoramic views of the lake

What Is the Best Time of Year to Fish in Lake Roland?

While you can fish in Maryland throughout the year, the best time to fish at Lake Roland is from April through the end of September, especially for striped bass, common carp, black crappie, bluegill, and largemouth bass. Winter is usually the lake’s slowest fishing period. Fish that are most commonly caught in Lake Roland include:

• Black crappie
• Common carp
• Bluegill
• Largemouth bass
• Green sunfish
• Rainbow trout
• Yellow bullhead
• Smallmouth bass

Are There Any Fishing Regulations or Restrictions in Lake Roland?

The Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Park allows and regulates all fishing from land, kayaks, or boats at Lake Roland. However, visitors may not fish with a bow and arrows. When fishing on this lake, you are required to have a State Angling License if you are 16 years or older. Unfortunately, you cannot obtain a license at the Lake Roland Nature Centre. Instead, you can get one at the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

What Is the Current Condition of Lake Roland?

Lake Roland’s water was last tested in August 2023 and passed with high marks, which means it is safe to swim in its waters. However, there are large boards around the lake that warn visitors that sometimes the waters are dangerous, especially after a storm. “This location has been identified as having potential for recurring sanitary sewer overflows during and following heavy rainfall.”

As a result, stormwater runoff from parking lots, streets, fields, and lawns and overflows or leaks from the sanitary sewer system may carry pollutants that can negatively affect anyone who comes into contact with the water. Therefore, it is advised to follow these guidelines when visiting the lake or stream:

• Do not drink the water.
• Avoid or minimize contact with any body of natural water when it is cloudy or immediately after heavy rainfall or a storm.
• Keep any cuts or open wounds away from contact with the lake’s water, and wash with soap and warm water immediately after if you can’t avoid it.
• Avoid hand-to-mouth contact when in the water, and wash your hands afterward.

Where is Lake Roland Located On a Map?

Lake Roland sits in Lake Roland Park near the intersection of Lake Avenue and Falls Road, across from the Falls Light Rail Stop on the Baltimore Light Rail, running from Cromwell Station to Hunt Valley. The line runs along a trestle and railroad embankment over the lake and above the dam. It divides the park into northern and southern portions. The park’s north side is wooded. However, the southern side consists of the dam, pavilion, picnic groves, and a pumping station.