Lake Matoaka

Lake Matoaka is a mill pond on the College of William & Mary campus that covers about 40 acres within College Woods. The water body is fed by College Creek and reaches depths of several meters in places.

The body of water began as Archer's Hope Swamp before 1700, when landowners built a dam on College Creek. This transformation created an artificial water basin for milling purposes.

The body of water takes its name from Pocahontas, using her birth name Matoaka from the Powhatan tradition. This choice reflects the college's connection to the region's Native American heritage.

A boathouse on one side of the lake provides water access and can be reached by walking paths from campus. Visit during good weather for the most comfortable experience exploring the shoreline trails.

Scientists have discovered an undescribed species of amphipod and populations of least brook lampreys in the streams feeding the western section. These biological features make the location an unexpected habitat despite its artificial origins.

Location: Williamsburg

GPS coordinates: 37.26611,-76.72333

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:04