Black Hill Regional Park — Attraction in Germantown

Little Seneca Lake is a 505-acre man-made reservoir nestled in Black Hill Regional Park, completed in 1984 as part of the region’s emergency water supply system . It holds approximately 4.5 billion gallons of water, with an average depth of ~24.7 ft and maximum depth reaching 68 ft—making it the deepest lake in Montgomery County .

The lake’s primary purpose is water supply reliability, having been tapped only once—during the 1999 drought—but it also provides rich recreational offerings .

Fishing is a major draw: species include largemouth bass, tiger muskies, channel catfish, bluegill, perch, crappie, and occasionally others. Anglers can fish year-round from shore, and certain summer nights are designated for night fishing by boat—complete with required lighting regulations and license checks .

Boat rentals are available seasonally (typically May–September) at the Black Hill Boats facility—inclusive of kayaks, canoes, pedal boats, SUPs, and rowboats. Rentals run ~$14–15/hr or a full-day rate, with ADA‑accessible launch facilities . Private boats with electric motors also allowed with daily or seasonal permits (March 1–Dec 15) and mooring options available .

Surrounded by over 2,000 acres of wooded meadow and wetlands, the lake abuts scenic trails, abundant wildlife, and the Black Hill Nature Center. Hiking and biking are well-supported, and visitors may spot eagles, deer, waterfowl, and beavers .

Overall, Little Seneca Lake blends practical infrastructure with tranquil natural beauty—making it an excellent spot for water‑based recreation, wildlife watching, or a peaceful...

Really large. Need reservation for one of the many pavilions. Huge lake. Boat rentals open only during summer. However, you can bring your own boat. Several locations throughout with clean restrooms. Nice information center which is staffed, has clean restrooms, several rocking chairs to relax in and an observation deck overlooking the water. Plenty of free parking everywhere. Free admission to park. Pavilion reservation has a small cost. Many hiking, walking and biking trails. Dogs on a leash are welcome. Park is open from 6 AM to sunset. Download map online which is very helpful. No food is sold here. Rental pavilions have grills if you bring your own charcoal. Some pavilions have electricity to plug into. Grounds are very well maintained and clean. Plenty of trash and recycling cans everywhere. Weekend was crowded. Not sure about during the week. Great location for family reunions and birthday parties. There are small to medium to...

Black Hill Regional Park is a beautiful and well-maintained park in Montgomery County, Maryland, offering a range of outdoor activities and scenic views. The park is centered around the picturesque Little Seneca Lake, which is perfect for kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding. There are numerous hiking trails, some of which offer stunning lake views, and the paths are generally well-marked and accessible for various fitness levels.

For families, there’s an excellent playground and picnic area, plus a nature center with educational programs. The park is also known for its wildlife, including birds and deer, making it a nice spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers. While it can get busy on weekends, there’s usually plenty of space to explore and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Overall, it’s a great spot for anyone looking to escape into nature without straying far...