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U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Project

Visitor information: 304 355-2346.

Jennings Randolph Lake was authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1962. The project was completed in 1982. The lake, named after former West Virginia Senator Jennings Randolph, was designed to improve water quality of the Upper Potomac River, provide flood risk management for downstream communities, provide a water supply for industries and municipalities downstream, and enhance recreational opportunities for the public.

The lake offers boating opportunities (speed, personal watercraft, fishing, sailing and rowing), fishing, water-skiing and many other activities. It is 5.5 miles long has a 13.6 mile shoreline encompassing 952 acres.

The recreation area surrounding Jennings Randolph lake covers 4,500 acres and includes a 90 site campground, a swimming area with a sandy beach, a picnic area, two boat launches; one in West Virginia off West Virginia Route 46 and one in Maryland off Maryland State Route 135 and Mt. Zion Road, hiking trails and more.

Whitewater rafting has been a major attraction in the river below the dam for many years. On select weekends in the spring and fall of each year, provided that lake conditions are favorable, the Corps of Engineers releases a flow of 800 to 1,000 cfs for whitewater recreation.