Boat Launches in Maryland

Boat launch access

Launching a boat in Maryland

Boating Hubs maps 112 boat launches in Maryland across 74 named waters. 87 are public access, and 25 are semi-private, so access may be limited to residents, members or permit holders. Every launch on this page carries its coordinates, so you can route to the ramp rather than to the lake.

Busiest waters in Maryland

• Chesapeake Bay (6)
• Chester River (5)
• Youghiogheny River - Youghiogheny River Lake (5)
• Bush River (4)
• Bear Creek (3)
• Fishing Bay (3)
• Parish Creek (3)
• Patuxent River (3)
• St. Marys River (3)
• Back River - Hawk Cove (2)
• Cadle Creek (2)
• Combs Creek (2)

Common questions about Maryland boat launches

How many public boat launches are there in Maryland?

Boating Hubs maps 112 boat launches in Maryland across 74 named waters. 87 are public access and 25 are semi-private, meaning access may be limited to residents, members or permit holders.

Which waters in Maryland have the most boat launches?

By mapped launch count: Chesapeake Bay (6), Chester River (5), Youghiogheny River - Youghiogheny River Lake (5), Bush River (4) and Bear Creek (3). Counts are the number of separate ramps and hand launches on each water, not the number of lanes.

Is there a fee to use boat launches in Maryland?

Launch fees are set by whoever manages the ramp, and Boating Hubs does not hold fee data for Maryland yet, so check the managing agency or marina before you tow. Ramps marked semi-private may also require a permit or membership.