Best lakes around Burnt Mills are primarily man-made reservoirs located in Montgomery County, Maryland. The area is historically known for its water filtration plant built along the Northwest Branch Anacostia River. While the immediate vicinity features the Northwest Branch Trail, recreational lake experiences are found in nearby parks. These man-made lakes offer diverse opportunities for outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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This small wooded spot just off city streets features paved bike paths winding through the trees and around a wetland pond. Roll in, enjoy the shade, and take a moment to reset in this calm, neighborhood oasis before heading back into your ride.
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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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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 area offers several spots for fishing, picnicking, or just enjoying the surroundings. The lake is regularly stocked with fish for fishing, but make sure you have the proper fishing license to do so.
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The lakes around Burnt Mills are primarily man-made reservoirs, often formed by damming rivers. These include popular spots like Lake Artemesia, Pine Lake, and Buddy Attick Lake, which offer diverse recreational opportunities.
Yes, several lakes are excellent for families. Pine Lake at Wheaton Regional Park offers playgrounds and walking trails, while Buddy Attick Lake Park features a playground and flat trails for wildlife observation. Lake Artemesia also has extensive trails suitable for all ages.
You can enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, picnicking, hiking, running, and biking. Lakes like Lake Artemesia and Pine Lake are popular for fishing, while many parks offer extensive trail networks. For more specific routes, you can explore hiking guides or road cycling routes in the area.
Pine Lake is regularly stocked with fish like largemouth bass, bluegill, and rainbow trout. Lake Artemesia also offers numerous fishing areas. Remember to have the proper fishing license.
Yes, most lakes are surrounded by trails. Lake Artemesia boasts miles of hiking, running, and biking trails. Buddy Attick Lake Park has a flat trail encircling the lake, perfect for observing wildlife. You can find more options in the easy hikes guide for the Burnt Mills area.
Visitors can observe diverse wildlife, especially at Buddy Attick Lake Park, where great blue herons, songbirds, turtles, foxes, and squirrels are common. Lake Artemesia also features an aquatic garden and scenic views of the 38-acre lake.
While the immediate highlights focus on fishing and trails, larger lakes in Montgomery County like Lake Needwood and Clopper Lake (within Seneca Creek State Park) are known for boating and kayaking opportunities. Little Seneca Lake also offers boating.
The lakes and their surrounding parks can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and biking, while summer is ideal for picnicking and water-based activities. Winter can provide serene views, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Many parks in Montgomery County, including those around the lakes, generally allow leashed dogs on trails. It's always best to check specific park regulations before visiting, but trails like those at Wheaton Regional Park (home to Pine Lake) are popular with dog walkers.
While specific accessibility details vary, parks like Buddy Attick Lake Park offer flat trails that are generally more accessible. The Elmhirst Parkway Neighborhood Conservation Area also features paved bike paths around a wetland pond, which are typically wheelchair-friendly.
Parks surrounding the lakes often provide amenities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and restrooms. For example, Wheaton Regional Park (near Pine Lake) has extensive facilities, and Buddy Attick Lake Park also offers well-maintained restrooms and a playground.
Most man-made lakes and reservoirs in Maryland, including those near Burnt Mills, do not permit wild swimming due to safety concerns and water quality regulations. The Northwest Branch Anacostia River, for instance, often has unsuitable bacteria levels for primary contact. It's best to assume swimming is not allowed unless explicitly stated by park authorities.


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