When the hustle and humidity of a Washington, D.C. summer start to feel overwhelming, a quick escape to the water can be the perfect reset. While the crowded boardwalks of Ocean City or the popular shores of Virginia Beach may be top of mind, the Mid-Atlantic region offers an abundance of lesser-known beaches and lakes that are just a short drive from the city. These hidden gems offer calm waters, sandy stretches, and scenic settings, without the heavy traffic or noisy crowds. 

Whether you’re craving a refreshing swim, a quiet kayak paddle, or a shady picnic by the shore, these off-the-radar spots deliver all the summer vibes with a touch of tranquility. Here are thirteen hidden beaches and lakes worth the drive from D.C.

1. Hunting Creek Lake

Where? Cunningham Falls State Park, Lower Trail – Red Blaze, Smithsburg, MD

Tucked into the Catoctin Mountains just over an hour from D.C., Hunting Creek Lake is a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush forest. This 75-acre man-made lake, located within Cunningham Falls State Park, features three designated swimming areas with sandy beaches and seasonal lifeguards. It’s a great spot for families, with picnic areas, a snack bar, and paddleboat rentals available in the summer months.

Beyond the beach, you’ll find shaded hiking trails that wind through the park and lead to the namesake Cunningham Falls – a picturesque 78-foot cascading waterfall. Whether you want to cool off in the water or stretch your legs in nature, Hunting Creek Lake is an easy, low-stress destination for a full day of outdoor fun.

2. Greenbrier Lake

Where? Greenbrier State Park, 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro, MD

Located about 90 minutes from the city, Greenbrier Lake is a 42-acre gem nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. The clear, calm waters and gently sloped sandy shorelines make it perfect for swimming, especially for families with young children. There’s a roped-off swimming area with lifeguards during peak season, and those looking to explore beyond the beach can bring their own canoes and kayaks, or paddle boats are available for rent by a private concessionaire.

Hiking and biking trails crisscross the surrounding woods, offering scenic views and a break from the sun. The park also has a large campground, making it an ideal spot for a weekend retreat. Bring a picnic, your hiking shoes, and a beach towel – this lake offers a little bit of everything for the nature-loving adventurer.

3. Aquia Landing Beach

Where? Aquia Landing Park, 2846 Brooke Rd, Stafford, VA

For a tranquil shoreline experience along the Potomac River, Aquia Landing Park in Stafford is a hidden treasure just over an hour south of D.C. This secluded beach is a historic site that has transformed into a quiet place for sunbathing, swimming, and fishing. The sandy stretch is small but rarely crowded, offering a peaceful alternative to busier waterfronts.

In addition to water access, the park is great for wildlife watching, especially birding, and provides plenty of shaded picnic spots. There’s no entry fee, and the relaxed vibe makes it a go-to for those who want a spontaneous beach day without the long drive or hustle of coastal towns.

4. Fossil Beach

Where? Westmoreland State Park, State Rte 686, Montross, VA

Fossil Beach offers more than just a place to swim – it’s a hands-on adventure. Located about 90 minutes from D.C. in Westmoreland State Park, this unique beach sits along the Potomac River and is known for its abundance of prehistoric fossils. Visitors frequently uncover ancient shark teeth and shell fragments while wading in the shallow waters or sifting through the sand.

The surrounding park offers a network of scenic trails, as well as picnic shelters and campsites. Fossil Beach is ideal for families with curious kids or anyone who wants to mix relaxation with a bit of discovery. Don’t forget to bring a small sieve or screen – your fossil find could be waiting just beneath the surface.

5. Lake Habeeb

Where? Rocky Gap State Park, 12900 Lake Shore Dr, Flintstone, MD

About two hours west of D.C., Lake Habeeb is often called Maryland’s “bluest lake,” and once you arrive, you’ll see why. Located in Rocky Gap State Park, this pristine 243-acre lake is surrounded by dense forest and mountain views, making it feel worlds away from city life. A large sandy beach area offers plenty of room to spread out, and the water is perfect for swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding.

The park also boasts miles of scenic hiking trails, fishing spots, and a pet-friendly atmosphere. If you’re looking for a longer getaway, cabins and campgrounds are available on-site. With clean facilities and picture-perfect views, Lake Habeeb is a must-visit for anyone in need of a refreshing escape.

6. Sherando Lake

Where? 96 Sherando Lake Rd, Lyndhurst, VA

If you’re ready for a longer drive and a weekend of rustic retreat, Sherando Lake is worth the three-hour journey. Often referred to as the “Jewel of the Blue Ridge,” this spring-fed lake is set within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests and offers crystal-clear waters for swimming and non-motorized boating.

A sandy beach lines the recreation area, and nearby trails wind through the surrounding mountains. Campgrounds and picnic areas make it an excellent place to unplug and enjoy a multi-day trip. Sherando Lake is a true escape into nature – ideal for those who want to disconnect and recharge.

7. Cave Mountain Lake

Where? Near Cave Mountain Lake Campground, Natural Bridge Station, VA

Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains about 3.5 hours from D.C., Cave Mountain Lake is a small but charming destination with mountain views and a laid-back vibe. The lake features a designated swimming area, sandy beach, and calm, shallow waters that are great for families. Anglers will also appreciate the stocked fish population.

Surrounding trails offer scenic hikes through forests and meadows filled with wildflowers. Picnic spots and basic amenities make it easy to spend the entire day soaking in the peaceful environment. For those who enjoy camping, the on-site campground completes the rustic experience.

8. Lake Anna

Where? Lake Anna State Park, 6800 Lawyers Rd, Spotsylvania Courthouse, VA

Roughly two hours south of D.C., Lake Anna is one of Virginia’s largest freshwater lakes and a well-kept secret for those in the know. The public beach at Lake Anna State Park offers a large swimming area, sandy shoreline, and family-friendly amenities like picnic shelters, a snack bar, and a playground. Lifeguards are typically on duty during peak summer months, and the roped-off swim zone makes it ideal for kids.

Beyond swimming, visitors can rent paddleboards, kayaks, or pontoon boats to explore the lake’s many coves and inlets. There’s also a network of hiking and equestrian trails nearby. The park features cabins and campgrounds, making Lake Anna a fantastic option for a weekend escape that combines relaxation and adventure.

9. Point Lookout Beach

Where? Point Lookout Swimming Beach, Scotland, MD

Located at the southern tip of Maryland’s Western Shore, where the Potomac River meets the Chesapeake Bay, Point Lookout Beach is about a 2.5-hour drive from D.C. The narrow strip of sandy beach offers tranquil views, warm shallow waters, and fewer crowds than more commercial coastal destinations.

The surrounding state park is rich with history – it once served as a Civil War prison camp – and offers historical exhibits alongside recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. This spot is especially appealing to those looking for a more remote and contemplative coastal setting with beautiful bay breezes.

10. Lake Fairfax Park

Where? 1400 Lake Fairfax Dr, Reston, VA

Closer to home, Lake Fairfax Park in Reston offers a convenient, low-key option for cooling off – just under an hour from D.C. While the lake itself is small, it has a designated swimming beach, boat rentals, and fishing opportunities. The park is also home to the popular Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole, a water park with slides, flumes, and lazy rivers.

With a campground, hiking trails, a skate park, and playgrounds, Lake Fairfax is an easy-to-access destination for families wanting a day of outdoor adventure without a long drive. It’s not a wilderness getaway, but it’s a great urban escape with something for everyone.

11. Belle Isle Beach

Where? Belle Isle State Park, 1632 Belle Isle Rd, Lancaster, VA

Just under two hours south of D.C., Belle Isle is a small island located in the James River near downtown Richmond, offering a unique and adventurous take on beach-going. The area features flat, smooth rocks along the riverbanks that serve as natural sunbathing spots and wading pools for cooling off in the current.

The river here is not ideal for deep swimming, but the scenic views, rapids, suspension bridge, and hiking/biking trails make it a standout for a day trip with a little urban flair. Belle Isle is part of the James River Park System, and it’s especially popular with locals in the know, so bring water shoes and be ready for a fun, slightly rugged riverfront experience.

12. Hart-Miller Island

Where? Hart-Miller Island, Chesapeake Bay, MD

For a true off-the-grid beach adventure, Hart-Miller Island is one of Maryland’s best-kept secrets – and it’s only accessible by boat. Located in the Chesapeake Bay near the mouth of the Middle River, this 1,100-acre island is a former dredge site that has been transformed into a pristine state park with sandy beaches, birdwatching areas, and hiking trails. It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from D.C. to reach the boat launches in Essex or Baltimore, followed by a short paddle or ride across the bay.

Once on the island, you’ll find calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming and floating, along with secluded picnic spots and unbeatable views of the bay. There are no cars, shops, or crowds – just natural beauty and a sense of solitude. For boaters, kayakers, and adventurous beach lovers, Hart-Miller Island offers a unique escape that feels worlds away from city life. Be sure to pack everything you need, including water, snacks, and sun protection, as facilities are limited and the peaceful isolation is part of the charm.

13. Clopper Lake

Where? Seneca Creek State Park, 11950 Clopper Rd, Gaithersburg, MD

Just under an hour northwest of D.C., Clopper Lake is a peaceful, tree-lined reservoir nestled within Seneca Creek State Park. Though not as widely known as larger lakes, it offers a scenic escape with 90 acres of calm water, perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. While swimming isn’t permitted, the lake’s serene shoreline, shaded picnic areas, and easy walking trails make it an ideal spot for a relaxed summer day.

Families will appreciate the grassy areas near the water’s edge – great for spreading out a picnic blanket or letting kids explore. The surrounding park also features a playground, nature center, and seasonal boat rentals. If you’re looking for a quick getaway that feels worlds away from the city without the long drive, Clopper Lake is a quiet and refreshing option well worth discovering.

Check Out These DMV Beaches for the Perfect Summer Escape

From forest-framed lakes to riverside beaches with fossil treasures, the areas surrounding Washington, D.C., are full of hidden aquatic gems that offer peaceful retreats without the need for long-haul travel. Whether you’re seeking a spontaneous day trip or planning a weekend camping getaway, these lesser-known destinations provide the refreshing waters, scenic backdrops, and outdoor activities to help you recharge and reconnect with nature.

Best of all, these hidden spots are often less crowded and more budget-friendly than their better-known counterparts. So skip the bumper-to-bumper beach traffic and explore one of these under-the-radar retreats instead. With so many unique beaches and lakes within a few hours’ drive, your next summer escape could be closer and quieter than you think.