There is plenty of opportunities for summer fun near DC. From waterparks to beaches to hiking trails, there’s always something to do around the district. There’s one place not far from DC that often gets left off summer bucket lists. Lake Habeeb in Rocky Gap State Park is one of the best underrated lakes near DC for a summer day trip!

Rocky Gap State Park is located at 12500 Pleasant Valley Rd in Flintstone, Maryland.

Flickr/Chesapeake Bay Program

Lake Habeeb is a manmade lake that is the main feature of the park. It’s a beautiful lake surrounded by gorgeous white beaches.

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The lake looks stunning tucked below the beautiful Evitt’s Mountain in the background.

Yelp/Sahar R.

There’s also a campground with mini cabins, a playground and plenty of wildlife in the area.

Flickr/Karen Jacobs Cook

Rocky Gap has plenty of trails around the lake, including the Lakeside Loop Trail that is a 5 mile trail all around the lake.

Yelp/Kathleen B.

There are lifeguards in the beach section and visitors can swim along the shore.

Flickr/Ron Cogswell

You can also rent kayaks, canoes or paddleboats around the lake.

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There’s a visitor center where you can grab lunch or dinner at the Hawk’s Nest Cafe. There are also picnic tables and grills for visitors to picnic or grill out.

Yelp/Caren B.

The lake is home to trout, catfish and large and smallmouth bass and fishing is allowed 24 hours a day on the lake.

Flickr/Via Tsuji

Rocky Gap Casino Resort is also located on the lake. You can gamble, dine and also rent boats.

Yelp/Rami S.

Golfers will love golfing on the casino golf course.

Flickr/Ron Cogswell

Lake Habeeb and Rocky Gap State Park are two hours outside of DC and it makes for a perfect summer destination.

Flickr/Via Tsuji

You can also avoid the crowds at these nine little known swimming spots around the district!

Flickr/Chesapeake Bay Program

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Yelp/Sahar R.

Flickr/Karen Jacobs Cook

Yelp/Kathleen B.

Flickr/Ron Cogswell

Yelp/Caren B.

Flickr/Via Tsuji

Yelp/Rami S.

Flickr/Via Tsuji

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