Tilghman Lake Park - La Plata, MD
Tilghman Lake Park: A Serene Dog-Friendly Retreat in La Plata, Maryland
Tilghman Lake Park, located in the heart of La Plata, Maryland, is a tranquil destination perfect for pet owners seeking peaceful dog-friendly hiking and picturesque lake views. This hidden gem features paved paths encircling a scenic lake, making it ideal for low-impact walks with your dog while spotting local wildlife like turtles, ducks, geese, and even the occasional blue heron. The park’s pet-friendly trails connect to Laurel Springs Park, offering extended outdoor adventures for you and your furry companion.
Visitors will find plenty of amenities including free gravel parking, accessible restrooms, a covered picnic pavilion with numerous tables and grills, benches, and water views. Whether you’re planning a relaxing day out, looking for a quiet spot for dog walking in La Plata, or seeking a serene escape with your pup, Tilghman Lake Park is a beautiful and uncrowded choice for dog owners and local residents alike.
FAQ for Dog Owners
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are benches near the parking area and along the trail, as well as picnic tables under a covered pavilion.
- Are there restrooms available for owners? Yes, accessible bathrooms are open year-round.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? There is no playground at Tilghman Lake Park, so additional activities are recommended for families with young children.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, the park and its restrooms are accessible throughout the year.
- Where is the best place to park? Free parking is available in a gravel lot near the park entrance.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, paved walking trails circle the lake and connect to Laurel Springs Park for extended walks.
- Are picnics or BBQs allowed? Yes, there is a covered pavilion with picnic tables and grills available for public use.
Reviews
Tilghman Lake is a tranquil lake and surrounding trail. As the weather is getting warmer, when we were walking the trail, we saw different wildlife: birds, ducks, and even a few turtles hanging out on a log. There is also a pavillion with picnic tables, a floating dock, exercise stops around the trail, and bathrooms that are open year round. The trail connects to Laurel Springs park as well as a paved path that runs alongside the road leading to the park. Beautiful place!
Just discovered this place a few weeks ago and I’ve been several times since. The lake itself isn’t too big so if you’re looking for a low impact walk, the trail around the lake is perfect. Every time I go I always see turtles, geese, ducks, frogs, fish, butterfly’s, lizards, and sometimes ospreys. Highly recommend if you live in the area to visit here, especially birders. They also have a picnic area and benches near the parking area for those who have a big group of people or just want to eat lunch.
First time at this little gem 20mins from my house. Where we was there is NO playground. So bring activities to keep the younger ones occupied. Teens and adults, this spot is really low key. We saw people fishing and walking the trails (with dogs as well). We set up at the pavilion. Pretty decent size area. 3 grills and 14 picnic tables. The flies were my only issue but next time till think about a spray or candle or something. We’ll definitely be going back before the summer ends.
I saw a Great Blue Heron and it flew across the lake. I saw a swan swimming with some geese. I don’t think I have ever seen a swan before. I saw a tree cut down by a beaver. I could tell, because of the teeth marks. It was so peaceful and quiet there. The walk around the lake took about 25 minutes.
Little hidden gem today. If you’re looking for a park with less population but just as much beauty, check out Tilghman.
•Paved path around the water
•Free parking on a gravel lot.
•Accessible bathrooms
•Covered picnic area.
•Boat dock.
•outdoor ampitheater with benches, small wooden stage and firepit.
Heading over in the morning hours, I only saw a handful of people. Beautiful spot!