Liberty Reservoir is located on the border between Baltimore County and Carroll County, fed by the north branch of the Patapsco River.
The residents of the towns of Oakland Mills and Melville Woolen Mill were forced to relocate as the land was purchased by the government in 1951. The construction of the dam was completed soon after, and the reservoir was full by early 1956.
With a capacity of 43 billion gallons, Liberty covers a large area with its depths reaching over 140 feet. Its vast, clear waters allow for a variety of unique breeds, including walleye bass and a hybrid striped bass. It is also home to plenty of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, perch, and brown trout.
There are two boat ramps, both located on Oakland Mills Road by the Route 26 Bridge. Boat rental is not available, and all boats must have a Liberty / Prettyboy reservoir permit. Due to zebra mussel concerns, any watercraft used here must only be used in Loch Raven, Liberty, or Prettyboy reservoirs.
Liberty also boasts several hiking trails, and shoreline fishing is easily accessible. The Deer Park / Nicodemus Road Bridge also allows for fishing directly off of the bridge.
Useful Links:
Bathymetric Data from the Maryland Geological Society (1.15 MB)
Liberty Reservoir Sign Map