Prettyboy Reservoir - Hampstead, MD
Prettyboy Reservoir Dog-Friendly Trails in Hampstead, Maryland
Prettyboy Reservoir is a hidden gem for dog owners and outdoor enthusiasts seeking scenic hikes and pet-friendly trails near Hampstead, Maryland. With about 6 miles of winding, mostly shaded trails, this location offers plenty of natural beauty and unique panoramic reservoir views—making it a favorite spot for dog-friendly hiking. The trails are tranquil and less crowded compared to other popular sites like Loch Raven Reservoir, so you and your pup can enjoy a peaceful outdoor experience together.
While Prettyboy Reservoir is not a traditional fenced dog park, it provides miles of walking and hiking opportunities perfect for well-behaved, leashed dogs. Parking is limited (about five spots along the shoulder), and the trails can become overgrown or obstructed after major storms, so come prepared. There are no restrooms or water fountains, and pet owners should pack essentials like water, bug spray, and poop bags. The shaded paths provide relief from the sun, and the natural setting is a great way to give both you and your dog a full-body workout!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Prettyboy Reservoir features several miles of scenic and mostly shaded hiking trails that are pet-friendly.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, most of the trail offers ample natural shade from the surrounding trees.
- Are restrooms available for owners? No, there are no restroom facilities at Prettyboy Reservoir; plan accordingly.
- Where is the best place to park? Parking is very limited, with about five spots available along the shoulder near the trail entrance. Arrive early to secure a spot.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Yes, visitors report a significant presence of mosquitoes, gnats, and potentially ticks, especially near the water and in high grass. Bring bug spray and check your pet after the hike.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Paths can be overgrown and muddy, particularly after storms, so wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for climbing over downed trees.
Reviews
Truly an amazing thing to hear and see! I would recommend it for anyone to see!!
This was an awesome find.
Look I thought I was at the China wall
The steps going down to the reservoir looked like that. This is a hikers dream spot. Super trails to walk down and up. If you want a full body work out please visit here.
Great trail about 6.5 miles long if you don’t go off trail and take a short cut around the blockade on the main path by the home owners near the entrance. They really need to learn how to spell. The word they are looking for is EXORBITANT. But I guess the venn diagram of people who act like this AND who use proper grammar does not have much overlap.
A beautiful, yet long hike! Around 6 miles round trip.
Pros:
– If you make it to the end of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful view of the reservoir.
– Trail is mostly shade.
Cons:
– The storm that hit last month knocked down a ton of large trees on the path. If you can’t climb over things, you won’t get far.
– The trail is kept up and cleared, to a certain part, then major overgrowth happens. Be prepared to walk through thigh high grasses once you get closer to the end of the trail.
– The bugs! Bring plenty of Deep Woods Off spray… you’re gonna need it. Not only do you have to walk through high grasses (ugh ticks), but the mosquitoes and gnats are horrible as you near the water. Oh, the spotted lantern flies come out of nowhere and will land on you. You’ve been warned.
– No restrooms, so you gotta pee in the woods. Trick: bring disposable wet wipes.
– The entrance to the trail is completely blocked by trees. It was hard to see where the trail started.
– Parking. There’s only room for about 5 cars on the shoulder.
Other than that, a great hike! Note: if you’ve made it to the white house on your left, you have about 45 minutes left until you hit the end of the trail, at the water.
1st time going here. Seems like a nice place to hike or walk. The trail I did was very wide and not very long. Lot less people than Loch Raven Reservoir, but the place needs more signs to let people know where u can hike. Parking is very limited, too. It needs more parking spots.