Jennings Randolph Lake is a man-made lake located on the North Branch Potomac River in Mineral County, West Virginia and Garrett County, Maryland. It was created in the 1980s as part of a federal flood control project, and it is named after former U.S. Senator Jennings Randolph, who was instrumental in securing funding for the project.
The idea for Jennings Randolph Lake dates back to the early 20th century when the North Branch Potomac River was prone to flooding. The first flood control study of the area was conducted in the 1930s, but it wasn’t until the 1970s that Congress authorized the construction of a dam and reservoir. The dam was completed in 1982, and the lake began to fill with water.
Jennings Randolph Lake serves several purposes, including flood control, water supply, and recreation. It is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which maintains the dam and surrounding lands. Today, the lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. With its clear blue waters, picturesque surroundings, and numerous recreational opportunities, it is a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike.
Here, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Jennings Randolph Lake so special and why you should consider visiting:
One of the most notable features of Jennings Randolph Lake is its size. The lake spans over 950 acres, providing ample space for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water-based activities. Additionally, the lake is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, making it a great place to take in the natural beauty of the area.
The Boat Launch in Maryland can be found on Mt. Zion Road, accessible via Maryland State Route 135 on Backbone Mountain. Boasting a thirty-foot wide, 600-foot long concrete boat ramp complete with a floating pier system, this launch is a great choice for watercraft enthusiasts. A large, paved parking area is also available, with space for up to fifty cars and trailers, as well as a convenient comfort facility. The launch ramp and comfort station are both equipped with lighting for nighttime use. Please note that a Maryland service charge of $5.00 is required (paid via honor-box) for boat launching.
Fishing is a popular pastime at Jennings Randolph Lake, with anglers coming from all over to cast their lines in the clear waters. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including g for largemouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, white crappie, walleye, saugeye, brown trout, bluegill and hybrid striped bass. There are also several fishing piers and boat ramps located throughout the lake, making it easy for visitors to access the best fishing spots.
For those who prefer to explore the lake by boat, Jennings Randolph Lake has several options. There are boat rentals available, as well as boat ramps for those who want to bring their own watercraft. Kayaking and canoeing are also popular activities on the lake, with plenty of opportunities to paddle around and take in the scenic views.
In addition to water-based activities, Jennings Randolph Lake also has several hiking trails and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy. The trails wind through the surrounding forests, providing plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and take in the natural beauty of the area. The picnic areas are a great place to relax and enjoy a meal with family and friends.
Overall, Jennings Randolph Lake is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the busy Deep Creek Lake life and truly get away from it all!
(I’d love to see a photo of the infamous Waffle Rock if you get down to explore Jennings Randolph lake!)
