Lake Artemesia is a picturesque man-made lake in College Park, Maryland. The lake is a part of the Lake Artemesia Natural Area, a park that also contains aquatic gardens, fishing piers and nature trails. Walk through scenic bushland and relax with a picnic by the water.
The lake is named after local resident Artemesia Drefs. The Drefs family originally owned the land and used the lake to farm goldfish. During the construction of the nearby Washington Metro rail line in 1976, the government wanted to excavate the Drefs' land to provide fill for train track beds. Drefs agreed to donate the land on the condition that it would later be used as a natural recreational area.
At 38 acres (15.4 hectares) in size, Lake Artemesia is quite a large lake for a metropolitan area. As you relax in this peaceful, natural setting, it is easy to forget that Washington, D.C. is just 30 minutes’ drive away. Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the gazebos along the lake’s shore. Boating and swimming are not allowed in the lake.
Cast your line into the water from the fishing pier. Lake Artemesia is known as a great fishing destination, stocked with plenty of trout and bass.
Circle the lake by foot or by bicycle along the scenic Lake Artemesia Trail. The trail also conveniently links Lake Artemesia to Calvert Road Park, College Park Airport and the Aviation Museum. Use the trail as a starting point for longer treks, such as the Northeast Branch Trail and the Paint Branch Trail.
Whether you are an expert birdwatcher or a complete novice, the Luther Goldman Birding Trail is worth a visit. Along this 2.2-mile (3.5-kilometer) track, you can spot songbirds, waterfowl and other migratory birds.
Lake Artemesia is located 12.5 miles (20 kilometers) outside of Washington, D.C. Cars are not permitted on park grounds. For directions on the closest parking lot to the lake, visit the website of the Prince George’s County Department of Parks and Recreation.
