Developed during the construction of the nearby Washington Metro rail line, this park is named for local resident Artemesia N. Drefs, who donated 10 lots to be used as open space. Mrs. Drefs' father surveyed the property in 1890 and her family used the natural ponds as a goldfish farm. During the 1976 construction of the rail line, builders removed sand and gravel from the park area to use in the rail project, in exchange for developing the natural recreation area.
Today, this public park consists of a 38-acre lake, a handicapped accessible fishing pier, and aquatic gardens. More than two miles of hiker-biker trails surround and connect the lake with Calvert Road Park and College Park Airport and Aviation Museum. The Luther Goldman Birding Trail attracts both expert and novice bird watchers hoping to glimpse finches, orioles, ibis, and other birds. The Prince George's Audubon Society hosts bird walks every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month.
Lake Artemesia is a great place for fishing. A non-tidal fishing license is required for persons 16 & older. In addition, a trout stamp is required to catch-and-take trout from the lake. Refer to the Maryland DNR website for more information.
Vehicles are not permitted on park ground, but visitors can access the park via handicapped accessible trails at the 5200 block of Calvert Road in College Park, or Osage Street and Swathmore Court in Berwyn Heights.
From the Capital Beltway (I-495), take Exit 23 South (Kenilworth Avenue). Make a right onto Greenbelt Avenue (Route 193). Make a right on Branchville Road. Branchville Road becomes Ballew Avenue after passing under the bridge. Follow Ballew Avenue until you get to the intersection of 55th Avenue and Berwyn Road. Parking is on the left side.