Top 6 Lakes around Woodmore
Best lakes around Woodmore, Maryland, are situated in Prince George's County, offering diverse recreational opportunities. All lakes in Maryland are man-made, primarily formed for recreation, water supply, or flood control. The area provides access to various lakes that feature trails, fishing, and wildlife observation. These bodies of water contribute to the natural landscape and offer outdoor activities for visitors.
Best lakes around Woodmore
- The most popular lakes is Patuxent Research Refuge, a forest that covers 12,800 acres and is…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
Patuxent Research Refuge
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Cash Lake
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Governor Bridge Natural Area
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Northampton Lake
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School House Pond
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Tips from the Community
This is a lovely spot with a nice boardwalk, where you can walk along the pond's perimeter and enjoy the surrounding parkland. There is a picnic area, and a fishing pier, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful respite amidst the city's hustle and bustle for lunch, or spending the afternoon.
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Governor Bridge Natural Area was once a sand and gravel mining operation, but it has since been restored to its natural state and transformed into a beautiful recreation spot in Bowie. The eight-acre lake is a popular destination for anglers, teeming with largemouth bass, black crappie, sunfish, and catfish. A lovely loop trail around the lake is perfect for hikers and cyclists, and there's a boat launch to access the Patuxent River. As the starting point of the Patuxent Water Trail, this is the perfect place to kick off and conclude a delightful day in this picturesque area.
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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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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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Covering 12,800 acres (5,179 ha), this refuge is home to more than 1,100 species of plants and diverse wildlife. In fall and spring, huge flocks of migratory bird species swoop above the forests, meadows and wetlands. The refuge is one of the biggest forested areas in the mid-Atlantic. There's a visitor center where you can learn about the refuge's important work.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes near Woodmore offer easy walking or loop trails?
For easy walks and loop trails, Northampton Lake features a 2-mile paved trail around its perimeter. The Cash Lake Trail within the Patuxent Research Refuge also offers a pleasant path along the lake. Additionally, the Governor Bridge Natural Area has a loop trail suitable for hikers and cyclists around its eight-acre lake.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Woodmore?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. The Patuxent Research Refuge is family-friendly with a visitor center and trails. Northampton Lake and School House Pond both offer amenities like picnic areas and easy trails. Cosca Regional Park, which includes a lake, provides a wide array of activities for families, including a playground, paddle boats, and a nature center.
What kind of wildlife can I observe near the lakes?
The Patuxent Research Refuge is an excellent spot for wildlife observation, home to over 1,100 plant species and diverse wildlife. Large flocks of migratory birds can be seen in spring and fall. Cosca Regional Park's nature center also offers opportunities to observe bald eagles and other wild birds of prey.
Which lakes are best for fishing near Woodmore?
The Governor Bridge Natural Area is well-known for fishing, with its eight-acre lake teeming with largemouth bass, black crappie, sunfish, and catfish. Lake Artemesia also offers various fishing areas for anglers.
Are there wheelchair-accessible options at the lakes?
The Patuxent Research Refuge is noted as wheelchair accessible, offering facilities and trails that accommodate visitors with mobility needs. School House Pond features a boardwalk, making it accessible for enjoying the pond's perimeter.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Beyond walking and hiking, you can enjoy cycling on trails like the 2-mile paved loop at Northampton Lake or the loop trail at Governor Bridge Natural Area. Cosca Regional Park offers paddle boating, and the Governor Bridge Natural Area provides a boat launch for access to the Patuxent River. For more extensive cycling routes, explore options in the Cycling around Woodmore guide.
Are there hiking trails near these lakes?
Yes, numerous hiking trails are available. The Cash Lake Trail within the Patuxent Research Refuge is a popular choice. Cosca Regional Park also features extensive hiking trails through wooded areas. For more options, check out the Easy hikes around Woodmore guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Woodmore?
Visitors appreciate the natural escape and recreational opportunities. The Patuxent Research Refuge is valued for its extensive wildlife and visitor center. Northampton Lake is popular for its convenient paved trail, while Governor Bridge Natural Area is loved for its fishing and river access. Many enjoy the peaceful respite offered by spots like School House Pond.
Are there any lakes that were once industrial sites?
Yes, the Governor Bridge Natural Area in Bowie was once a sand and gravel mining operation. It has since been successfully restored to a natural state, highlighting a significant environmental transformation.
Are all lakes in Maryland man-made?
Yes, all lakes in Maryland are man-made. They were primarily formed by damming rivers for purposes such as recreation, water supply, hydroelectric power, or flood control.
Where can I find information about the Collington Branch and its associated ponds?
Woodward Pond (also known as Foxhill Lake) and Allen Pond are man-made lakes that drain into Collington Branch. These smaller bodies of water contribute to local green spaces and are part of planned multi-use trails. You can find more information about the Collington Branch on Wikipedia.
Are there any lakes with aquatic gardens near Woodmore?
Yes, Lake Artemesia features an aquatic garden, along with miles of trails for hiking, running, and biking, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts and active recreation.
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