Best lakes around Lanham include several notable bodies of water and natural areas in its vicinity. While large natural lakes are not directly within Lanham's borders, areas like Lake Artemesia offer accessible natural escapes. The region features scenic lakes with aquatic gardens and extensive nature reserves, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. These locations are characterized by their well-maintained trails and natural settings.
Last updated: August 18, 2026
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Buddy Attick Lake Park offers a flat trail encircling the Greenbelt Lake, giving visitors the opportunity to observe wildlife such as great blue herons, songbirds, turtles, foxes, and squirrels. The park features a playground, a recycling center, restrooms, and well-maintained facilities. This park is a popular spot for watching fireworks on the Fourth of July.
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Northampton Lake covers 23 acres and features a 2-mile paved trail looping around its perimeter. It's a nice natural getaway from the surrounding urban area.
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Lake Artemesia is a man-made lake, spanning 38 acres and surrounded by Lake Artemesia Park. The lake and the park are named after Artemesia N. Drefs, who in 1972 donated ten lots to the county for preservation as a public green space.
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This park boasts an aquatic garden, miles of hiking, running, and biking trails, and numerous fishing areas. The standout feature of the park is the scenic 38-acre lake, visible from various points along the trails.
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This is a very cool wildlife refuge with trails surrounding Lake Cash and Lake Redington. Make sure to stop in and check out the museum in the Visitor's Center, and keep your eyes peeled for birds along the trail.
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Yes, several lakes near Lanham are excellent for families. Lake Artemesia offers paved paths suitable for cycling and rollerblading, along with an aquatic garden. Patuxent Research Refuge and Cash Lake Trail provide opportunities for wildlife observation. Buddy Attick Lake Park features a playground and well-maintained facilities, while Northampton Lake has a paved trail perfect for a family stroll.
The lakes around Lanham offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, running, and biking on the extensive trails at Lake Artemesia. Fishing is also popular there. Patuxent Research Refuge is ideal for wildlife observation and exploring nature trails. For more detailed route information, you can explore guides for hiking, running, and cycling around Lanham.
Yes, there are several excellent hiking trails. Lake Artemesia features miles of trails. Within the Patuxent Research Refuge, you'll find trails around Cash Lake and Lake Redington, including the popular Cash Lake Trail. Buddy Attick Lake Park offers a flat trail encircling Greenbelt Lake, and Northampton Lake has a 2-mile paved loop. For more options, check out the hiking guide for Lanham.
Yes, Patuxent Research Refuge is noted for being wheelchair accessible. Additionally, Lake Artemesia has paved paths that are suitable for wheelchairs, offering a pleasant experience around the lake.
Absolutely. The lakes are great for wildlife spotting. Patuxent Research Refuge is home to over 1,100 species of plants and diverse wildlife, including migratory birds, especially in fall and spring. At Buddy Attick Lake Park, you might spot great blue herons, songbirds, turtles, foxes, and squirrels. Lake Artemesia is known for various fish species like crappie and has an aquatic garden.
The lakes around Lanham can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall are particularly scenic. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Fall and spring are also ideal for birdwatching at Patuxent Research Refuge, as huge flocks of migratory birds pass through.
Dog policies vary by location. While specific rules for each lake are not detailed, it's generally advisable to check the official websites or signage at each park for their current pet regulations. Many parks require dogs to be on a leash.
Yes, some locations offer facilities. Patuxent Research Refuge has a visitor center with restrooms, air conditioning, benches, and a water fountain. Buddy Attick Lake Park also provides restrooms and well-maintained facilities.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity at some of the lakes. Lake Artemesia, for example, has numerous designated fishing areas. Always ensure you have the necessary permits and adhere to local fishing regulations for Prince George's County, MD.
While the lake areas themselves are primarily natural escapes, you'll find various cafes and restaurants in the nearby towns and communities surrounding Lanham. It's recommended to check local listings for dining options before or after your visit to the lakes.
The terrain varies. At Lake Artemesia and Northampton Lake, you'll find mostly paved or well-maintained flat trails, suitable for easy walks, cycling, and rollerblading. Trails within Patuxent Research Refuge, such as the Cash Lake Trail, are generally natural paths through forests and wetlands, offering a more traditional hiking experience.


Still not found your perfect lake around Lanham? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.