Not everyone looks at a former gravel pit and pictures building a resort and residential community along the lakes that resulted from the gravel operation. Luckily for the residents of Artesian Lakes, someone did. This historic property was used in the late 1800s to fulfill the need for a fantastic new construction material: concrete. The excavation of sand and gravel left many interconnected lakes with unique shorelines and numerous islands within the lakes. Due to the abundance of wildlife and fish, several small one-room cabins were built in between 1940 and the late 1960s, many of them are still there today and are available to rent through the adjacent Retreat at Artesian Lakes. After the excavation operations shut down in the early 1980s, the property was used as a fishing and hunting camp and offered rustic camping as well as the cabins. 

The historic 1895 Climax Model B locomotive, the oldest wood burning locomotive in existence, was used in the operations of and is on display at the resort. An original railroad trestle bridge offers a look back in time to when trains were used to transport all of the goods through the area.

After the excavation was complete, the Smith family decided to create a unique residential community on the shore of the lakes by offering large wooded lots, all of which are lakefront. The lakes are fed by artesian springs that produce some of the purest water in the world. Now, residents of Artesian Lakes enjoy picturesque views of lakes surrounded by beautiful trees. Deer, foxes, rabbits armadillos other native animals are daily visitors and know to stay away from the lakes and their many alligators. 

Gravel roads, once used to move gravel and sand, wind their way through the trees and lakes. Rustic walking paths through the woods offer the chance to listen to nature and see some of the wildlife. Fishing and birdwatching are favorite pastimes with residents and even during the day you are likely to spot one of the many alligators that call the more than 150 acres of lakes home. 

Members of the community are very involved with committees and take social events very seriously. With weekly coffee for the ladies, breakfast for the men, fish fries, holiday parties, Mardi Gras celebrations and more, the residents are close-knit and are always willing to step in to help each other.

We are excited to see what the future holds for the vibrant Artesian Lakes Community Association.