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Lake Elkhorn

6800 Cradlerock Way,
Columbia, MD 21045
Great for Portraits
and in our standard portraits service area.

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The stone sign, etched with "Lake Elkhorn Park," sits proudly on a grassy area, surrounded by a tranquil backdrop of trees.
A wooden dock extends over the calm waters of Lake Elkhorn, surrounded by trees and a small building. Benches line the dock under a cloudy sky.
A boardwalk leads to a small red hut by Lake Elkhorn, surrounded by trees. Algae covers part of the pond's surface.
A wooden bridge and path weave through the lush forested area near Lake Elkhorn, creating a serene escape into nature.
A paved path leads to a boardwalk beside the calm waters of Lake Elkhorn, with a flowering tree and lush greenery enveloping the serene area.
A tranquil Lake Elkhorn scene with dense green trees reflected in the water, a narrow path winding through the trees, and scattered wildflowers adorning the foreground.
A paved path runs alongside Lake Elkhorn, a tree-lined lake with several wooden posts along the water's edge.
Under the expansive blue sky, Lake Elkhorn stretches serenely, cradled by lush green trees. A charming wooden house sits nestled on its shoreline, offering a perfect retreat amid nature's tranquil embrace.
A tranquil scene unfolds at Lake Elkhorn, featuring houses nestled in the background. Surrounded by lush trees, a small dock extends gracefully over the calm water, inviting quiet reflection and serene moments.
A riverside path lined with wooden posts and trees on the left offers a serene stroll beside the calm waters of Lake Elkhorn on the right.
A charming wooden footbridge spans a small creek, embraced by green trees and grass on either side, guiding the way toward a distant neighborhood near Lake Elkhorn.
A stepped dam with water flowing down is surrounded by lush greenery, part of the picturesque Lake Elkhorn. A house is visible in the background, nestled among trees.
A grassy field with tall grass on the left and a red wooden bridge in the background, surrounded by trees, paints a picturesque scene reminiscent of Lake Elkhorn.
The concrete spillway at Lake Elkhorn, with water cascading gracefully, is flanked by grassy banks and trees under a cloudy sky.
Tall grass sways gently with a backdrop of trees under the clear sky at Lake Elkhorn.
Under a clear sky, Lake Elkhorn mirrors the lush green trees surrounding it. A quaint building and an elegant bridge gracefully span across the background, enhancing the tranquil scene.

Lake Elkhorn, located in Columbia, Maryland, is a manmade reservoir established in 1974. It was named after the Elkhorn Branch of the Little Patuxent River, which serves as its primary inflow, with the Little Patuxent River acting as its outflow. Spanning 37 acres, it is the largest of Columbia’s lakes. The area surrounding the lake, developed during the early stages of Columbia’s growth, features townhouses and a park with amenities such as a picnic pavilion. A two-mile walking path was added in 1982, further enhancing its appeal as a recreational site. Over the years, the lake has been a focal point for the community, managed by the Columbia Association.

Currently, Lake Elkhorn remains a vibrant and popular destination. The lake’s scenic appeal is heightened by its combination of manicured lawns and rustic vistas. A distinctive dam structure adds an architectural feature of interest. The path encircling the lake is dotted with photogenic spots, providing opportunities to capture the interplay of water, foliage, and light at nearly every turn. Its accessibility is supported by two parking lots, though visitors should note that the smaller, more convenient lot fills quickly, particularly during favorable weather.

Lake Elkhorn is a compelling choice for portrait photography. Its diverse settings allow for a range of moods and styles, from formal portraits framed by manicured greenery to candid shots amidst natural, rustic backdrops. The wooden docks, the reflections on the water, and the autumn colors of surrounding trees offer a lot of creative possibilities. Additionally, the expansive lakeside loop provides flexibility for finding secluded spots even when the park is busy.

However, there are some limitations to consider. The size of the loop can pose challenges, particularly for photographers working with families with small children or those with mobility concerns. Traversing the entire path in a single session may not be feasible. The popularity of the park on nice days can also lead to crowded conditions, potentially impacting the sense of privacy in photos. Lastly, parking logistics require careful planning to avoid long walks to the desired shooting location.

Lake Elkhorn

6800 Cradlerock Way
Columbia, MD 21045

Website

Portrait Permits & Costs

Permit Required:
No
Portraits Service Area:

Lake Elkhorn is in our standard portraits service area.

Events:

Event Bookings:
No
Location Type:
Best from:
Great For:

Parking info:

Parking is available in a lot just off of Cradlerock Way, and a smaller lot can be found on Broken Land Pkwy. The smaller lot fills up quickly. These lots are far apart from one another and you will want to coordinate which lot you will meet at before arriving.

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