Lake Artemesia | Prince Georges County

Lake Artemesia is a tranquil 38-acre man-made lake located in College Park, Maryland, nestled within the larger Lake Artemesia Natural Area, which spans about 85 acres. The park is part of the Anacostia Tributary Trail System and is managed by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC). This serene area offers a rare combination of natural beauty, ecological diversity, recreational opportunities, and local history, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors throughout the region.

Origins and Development

Lake Artemesia was developed in the late 1980s during the construction of the Washington Metro Green Line. Soil excavation for the metro railbed provided an opportunity to shape a man-made lake, which was then enhanced with landscaping, trails, and wildlife habitats. The park was named in honor of Artemesia N. Drefs, a community resident whose family donated land for public use.

The lake’s creation also helped restore and preserve wetland ecosystems, and it now plays a role in stormwater management and wildlife conservation along the Indian Creek floodplain.

Natural Features and Ecology

Lake Artemesia is surrounded by woodlands, meadows, and aquatic habitats, all of which support an impressive variety of native species.

Birding: It’s one of the best birdwatching sites in Prince George’s County. More than 225 bird species have been recorded here, including great blue herons, green herons, belted kingfishers, warblers, wood ducks, cormorants, and ospreys.

Luther Goldman Birding Trail: A 1.35-mile paved loop trail named after the renowned wildlife photographer who once worked for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. It loops around the lake and is dotted with interpretive signage.

Flora and Fauna: The park includes pollinator gardens, reeds, and naturalized shorelines that attract butterflies, dragonflies, amphibians, and turtles.

Recreational Activities

Lake Artemesia is a popular destination for passive recreation-meaning activities that don’t require large-scale equipment or facilities, focusing instead on relaxation, exploration, and wellness.

Walking, Jogging, and Cycling

The paved perimeter trail is wheelchair-accessible and perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling. It links to the Anacostia Tributary Trail System, allowing extended walks or rides to nearby parks and greenways.

Benches and gazebos are placed along the trail for rest and views.

Fishing

The lake is stocked and managed for catch-and-release fishing.

Fishing pier: Accessible to people with disabilities, it extends into the lake for convenient access.

Common catches include bluegill, largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and sometimes northern snakehead.

A valid Maryland fishing license is required for adults.

Boating

Non-motorized boating such as kayaking and canoeing is allowed.

Self-service kayak and paddleboat rentals are typically available during the warmer months (April to October).

All watercraft use is restricted to daytime hours and must follow park safety rules.

Yoga in the Park

During spring and summer, Lake Artemesia hosts free outdoor yoga classes on Saturday mornings.

Open to all ages and experience levels, these sessions emphasize mindfulness and movement in nature.

Amenities and Accessibility

Lake Artemesia is designed for easy access and visitor comfort:

Restrooms: Available at the northern side of the park.

Picnic areas: Several tables and shaded gazebos make it ideal for casual gatherings or quiet lunches.

Water fountains: Found near entrances and along the trail.

No motor vehicles are permitted within the park; access is pedestrian or bicycle only.

Parking: Available just outside the park, typically along Berwyn Road or at the Paint Branch Parkway trailheads.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The area around the lake was historically linked to Lakeland, a historically African-American community in College Park. Interpretive signs along the trails recount the history of this community, its struggles with displacement, and its legacy. These signs add a layer of cultural education to the natural setting, helping visitors understand the human history that shaped the land.

Safety and Visitor Guidelines

Open dawn to dusk, year-round.

The park is not heavily lit, so evening visits should be done before sunset for safety.

Dogs are welcome on leash.

Swimming, ice skating, and drone flying are not permitted.

Feeding wildlife, picking plants, or disturbing animals is discouraged to protect the habitat.

Summary

Lake Artemesia offers a peaceful, well-maintained refuge from the urban environment, just minutes from the University of Maryland and the D.C. Metro area. Whether you're walking, fishing, birdwatching, exercising, or simply relaxing, the lake provides a balanced experience of natural beauty, environmental education, and low-impact recreation. Its design emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity, making it a treasured spot for families, seniors, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.