Conowingo Creek

Conowingo Creek, Conowingo Reservoir

This ramp is part of a wide inlet where Conowingo Creek empties into the Conowingo Reservoir. It is one of many Exelon recreation facilities in the area. Among ramps to the reservoir, this one is the closest to the Conowingo Dam on the Cecil County side. The ramp is a bit odd, basically a very wide concrete beach without any piers. There are no facilities here other than several picnic tables and there is no charge.

As is evident from the pictures, the inlet is separated from the reservoir by a low concrete railroad bridge. There isn't much clearance under the bridge arches (DNR says it's 5 feet, which is consistent with my measurement in July 2011) and there are probably times of high water when the clearance is considerably less. The inlet also tends to collect debris going downriver, so there is plenty to be cautious about here.

Conoeists and kayakers can paddle up Conowingo Creek — turn right once off the ramp and go under the road bridge — only for about 1/4 mile before you encounter rocks, but it is a worthwhile little trip.

— GHK