Belchertown’s lakes are three of the six Great Ponds in Hampshire County as listed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. All three lakes are important natural resources that provide recreational opportunities like swimming, boating, paddling, and (ice-)fishing; ecological value as habitat to a wide range of plants and animals; and economic value for recreation-based commerce and property tax revenues.
The Tri-Lakes watershed covers approximately 1600 acres and includes wetlands around the lakes. There are just under a hundred residences that are within 300 feet of the shoreline.
Arcadia Lake is 38 acres, with a maximum depth of 11.5ft and an average depth of 8.25ft. Arcadia is best known for the public beach (with concessions, a playground, and parking lot) and a launch area for canoes, kayaks, sailboats, and other small boats.
Metacomet Lake has about 53 acres with a maximum depth of 15ft and an average depth of 8ft. It has a public boat ramp (with Sani-can provided by TLWA) and powered craft are allowed; the state stocks it annually with trout.
Lake Holland covers 11 acres and has an outflow connection to Arcadia Lake through its channel. It is believed to have a maximum depth of 45ft and an average depth of 19ft.