Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in baltimore, MD

Get into the Swim: Five Great Places to Take a Dip

June 16, 2009

Because this is a respectable family-oriented site, and because I am an unceasingly law-abiding citizen, I would never recommend any swimming spots that aren't perfectly, 100% legal.  Less-than-legal spots do exist, of course, and many of these spots are in lovely locations, but the water in these places is often too deep or too cold (or both) for small children, and also too illegal.  So, you know, stay out of those reservoirs.  Not that you need to risk life and limb in a reservoir, what with so many legitimate swimming spots around town.  In need of a cool, refreshing dip?  Why not try one of these watery wonderlands, all of which offer swimming on the up-and-up? 

Beaver Dam Swimming Club- 10820 Beaver Dam Road, Cockeysville
Conveniently located in Baltimore County, Beaver Dam is home to a water-filled quarry, two pools, ball courts and a picnic area.  The quarry, while cool (in every sense of the word), is pretty deep; young children may feel most comfortable in Beaver Dam's swimming pools.

Oregon Ridge Beach - 13401 Beaver Dam Road, Cockeysville
Located just up the road from Beaver Dam, Oregon Ridge Beach features another quarry (mining was a big deal 'round these parts at one time), as well as, as you might expect, a sandy, little beach.  A designated shallow end provides endless fun for even the smallest children.

Elk Neck State Park - 4395 Turkey Point Road, North East
Though this park is a little farther than the others from the center of town, its lighthouse, sandy beaches and beautiful marshlands make the trip one well worth taking. 

Gunpowder Falls State Park (Hammerman Area)- Off of Ebenezer Road (Baltimore County)
Of the many swimming spots along the Gunpowder, Hammerman--particularly for families--is my favorite.  Take advantage of the spacious beach, the playground and the concession area, and spend a sunny afternoon wading and admiring the skills of the windsurfers. 

Patterson Park Public Pool - Patterson Park, Baltimore
Inexpensive swimming at its finest.  First established in 1906, the pool is now home to a swim team--the Piranhas--and to Fluid Movement, the inimitable water ballet performance group.

Got a favorite swimming spot that you're willing to share?  Tell us where you go to cool off!  Read more...