Loch Raven Reservoir Beach

For dining options near Loch Raven Reservoir, visitors can explore a variety of cuisines. Jimmy's Grille offers Greek cuisine with a family-friendly atmosphere, while Peerce's provides modern Indian and American dishes in a cozy setting. Strapasta serves Italian food with fast service and a casual vibe. For those seeking a more upscale experience, The Manor Tavern offers locally sourced American fare in a historic setting. Additionally, Brookside Market provides a casual dining experience with a focus on comfort food.

For accommodations near Loch Raven Reservoir, several options are available in the surrounding areas. The Comfort Inn in Towson offers a low-key stay with an outdoor pool and free breakfast. The Hilton Garden Inn Baltimore/White Marsh provides contemporary lodging with an indoor pool. For a more luxurious experience, the Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore offers premium amenities like a spa and stylish dining.

Loch Raven Reservoir offers several amenities for visitors. The Loch Raven Fishing Center provides boat rentals and fishing equipment, though picnicking and shoreline fishing are restricted to specific areas. Restrooms are available at the Fishing Center, and there are designated parking areas for dawn to dusk access. The reservoir itself does not have traditional beach amenities like showers or changing rooms, as it is primarily a water supply and recreational fishing area.

The surrounding park areas offer picnic spots and hiking trails, making it suitable for family outings and nature enthusiasts. However, activities like swimming and water skiing are prohibited to maintain water quality.

Loch Raven Reservoir is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include fishing, boating, and hiking. The reservoir offers small fishing boats for rent, and fishing licenses are required for those over 16. Hiking trails provide scenic views and opportunities for bird watching. Horseback riding and mountain biking are also available in the surrounding areas, making it a versatile destination for outdoor recreation.

The reservoir's scenic beauty and historical significance also make it a great spot for photography and nature exploration. However, due to its role as a drinking water source, swimming and other water contact activities are not permitted.

Loch Raven Reservoir offers some accessibility features for visitors with disabilities. The parking lot at the Loch Raven Fishing Center is wheelchair accessible, and there are restrooms available. However, the trails and other areas may not be fully accessible due to their natural terrain. It is advisable for visitors with mobility issues to plan ahead and contact local authorities for more detailed information on accessible routes and facilities.

Parking near Loch Raven Reservoir is primarily available for patrons of the Loch Raven Fishing Center and designated dawn to dusk parking areas along Loch Raven Drive. Visitors are encouraged to park in these designated spots to access the reservoir and its trails. The parking areas are generally free, though they may have limited capacity during peak hours or special events. It is advisable to arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends or holidays.

Loch Raven Reservoir has several interesting historical and ecological facts. It was originally built in 1881 and expanded significantly in the early 20th century to become the large reservoir it is today. The reservoir holds about 23 billion gallons of water, enough to supply the state of Maryland for approximately 50 days. Additionally, the area beneath the reservoir is said to contain remnants of old settlements, including a hidden city named Warren. The reservoir is also known for its diverse wildlife and plant species, making it a fascinating spot for nature enthusiasts.

Loch Raven Reservoir is surrounded by several attractions that complement its natural beauty. The nearby hiking trails offer scenic views and opportunities to explore the local flora and fauna. The reservoir itself is a significant historical site, with remnants of old settlements visible beneath the water. For those interested in film history, the area was used as a filming location for *The Blair Witch Project*. Additionally, the surrounding Baltimore County offers a range of cultural and historical sites to explore.