Rainbow Lake Access is located off Hampton Valley Road in Frederick County and provides parking along the southern shoreline with established fisherman's trails leading to the water.

Access requires a free permit from the Emmitsburg town office in addition to a state fishing license, as the lake is a conservation area with no boating, swimming, or camping allowed.

The forested shoreline offers clear water and sand/gravel shelves, though visitors should be prepared for pricker bushes when accessing the water.