20 Attractions to Explore Near Kent Lake

Kensington Metropark is one of Oakland County's most treasured outdoor destinations, attracting visitors year-round with its stunning natural beauty and endless recreation opportunities. Nestled within over 4,000 acres of rolling hills, wetlands, and woodlands, this expansive park is home to a multitude of activities and wildlife encounters. Whether hiking along one of the 17 miles of trails, casting a line in the clear waters of Kent Lake, or picnicking with family and friends.

Island Lake Recreation Area is a nature enthusiast's delight. It is a 4,000 acre park that offers plenty of outdoor activities such as camping, boating and fishing. Besides the recreational options available there are also fantastic educational opportunities as the area is home to several miles of hiking trails with interpretive signs along the way. Visitors can explore old growth forests, wetlands and dune systems in their natural state.

Proud Lake Recreation Area is a serene escape from the bustle of urban life. The park features over 4,700 acres of pristine woods, rolling hills, and sparkling lakes, providing visitors with a wealth of opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Whether you're hiking along one of the park's scenic trails, casting a line in the river, or picnicking with loved ones, there's no shortage of ways to unwind and recharge at Proud Lake Recreation Area.

Huron Meadows Metropark, is an incredible park boasts over 700 acres of outdoor fun like fishing, paddling, and swimming in over two miles of lakefront as well as hiking available along the many nature trails that surround the lake. There are also 2 playgrounds and 2 picnic shelters perfect for families to take advantage of. Golfers can enjoy the 18-hole championship golf course which offers a variety of challenges due to its many bunkers, trees and elevation changes.

Brighton Lake is a picturesque body of water serves as the perfect respite for any outdoor enthusiast looking to take in some sun and explore its scenic views. Boating, swimming, kayaking, fishing and more are all enjoyable activities available at Brighton Lake that make it an ideal choice for a family day trip or weekend getaway. With plenty of campsites nearby as well as other amenities in the area like convenience stores, there's something for everyone at this lake.

Mt. Brighton Ski Resort is one of the most popular skiing destinations in the state. The resort offers an array of activities to entertain both children and adults alike. They host early morning ski runs, expert terrain park challenges, tubing courses, and scenic chairlift rides. During the wintertime, Mt. Brighton plays home to over 28 snowguns ready to cover the slopes with fresh powder overnight for a great start each day!

Maybury State Park with over 1,000 acres of peaceful nature, you'll forget you're only a short drive from downtown Detroit. I mean, who knew such a beautiful oasis existed in this concrete jungle? From the well-maintained hiking trails to the tranquil fishing ponds, there's something for everyone at Maybury. Plus, the park even offers horseback riding, giving you the chance to live out all your cowboy dreams.

Highland Recreation Area is a nature lover's paradise with over 5,900 acres of lush wilderness to explore, visitors can hike through scenic trails, fish in sparkling lakes, and even camp under the stars. The park also offers a variety of activities for all ages, such as mountain biking, horseback riding, and picnicking. Whether you're looking for a thrilling adventure or a peaceful retreat, Highland Recreation Area has something for everyone to enjoy.

Horseshoe Lake is a hidden gem boasts crystal clear waters, scenic trails, and plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating. But let's be real - the real draw here is the serenity. With a tranquility that can only be found in the Midwest, Horseshoe Lake provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Trust me, once you've spent a day lounging on the shore and taking in the stunning views, you'll be counting down the days until you can return.

Lake Chemung is a beautiful natural oasis located in Livingston County, Michigan. With plenty of sprawling shoreline and rolling hills of tall grasses, Lake Chemung provides plenty of recreation opportunities for locals and visitors alike. Boating, fishing, jet skiing, kayaking, and swimming are among the many activities to choose from when spending time on the lake. The area also has several nature trails that lead to nearby forests.

Brighton Recreation Area is a crowd-pleaser. With its large array of activities including camping, fishing, boating and swimming, there is something for everyone. Boaters will enjoy the easy access to Pretty Lake and Forlorn Lakes for days of motorized or no-motorized fun. Fishermen will find an abundance of bass and panfish from the park docks and waterside beach areas. Campers have their choice of sites with beautiful foliage along scenic loops.

Zukey Lake is a popular destination for all kinds of recreational activities. Located near Howell and just off the I-96 corridor, it is ideal for people looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Zukey Lake covers over 600 acres and has depths up to 55 feet, making it perfect for fishing, swimming, sailing, or kayaking. It also features two public parks with beachfront access, boardwalks, playgrounds, and other amenities.

Strawberry Lake is an idyllic spot for both summertime fun and winter scenic views. Located just a few miles off the main highway, it is easily accessible but still provides a feeling of privacy and peacefulness. The lake itself is small yet capable of hosting activities like fishing or sailing. It also boasts beautiful sandy beaches ideal for swimming or picnicking with a view of the crystal clear waters. During the colder months, the lake is coated in white frost.

Independence Lake County Park offers a vast array of recreational activities for individuals and families of all ages. The park features a stunning 360-acre lake that is perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. Additionally, the park boasts over 23 miles of trails that can be used for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. If you're looking for a more relaxing day, there are multiple beaches and picnic areas where you can kick back and enjoy the gorgeous views.

Independence Lake's crystal-clear water and sandy beach make it a perfect spot for swimming, while the surrounding forests and hiking trails offer endless opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. And let's not forget about the fishing! The lake is stocked regularly with bluegill, bass, and catfish. Plus, the park staff is always organizing fun events like pancake breakfasts and outdoor movie nights under the stars. But, be warned, the mosquitoes can be quite opinionated too.

Bass Lake is a beautiful area of Michigan located in Livingston County. It features a 28 acre lake and is surrounded by lush woodlands, perfect for a relaxing outdoor adventure or fishing trip. The lake itself has been stocked with bass and panfish, making it a great spot to cast your line. There are also hiking trails that meander through the woods and offer you opportunity to appreciate the surrounding beauty.

This vast and beautiful expanse of natural scenery offers visitors a plethora of activities to engage in, from hiking the numerous trails and catching glimpses of wildlife, to camping alongside serene bodies of water. The park boasts not only small ponds and streams, but also the majestic and expansive Hell Lake, which offers the chance to fish for a variety of species. With its stunning views, diverse recreational options, and tranquil atmosphere, Pinckney Recreation Area is truly a hidden gem.

Rush Lake is a beloved summer destination for many. With its pristine water and sandy beaches adjacent to tranquil forests, Rush Lake draws in visitors from throughout the Great Lakes region looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The wonderful scenery includes an abundance of wildlife, colorful birds, and abundant smallmouth bass. Rush Lake also serves as a great launching point for canoeing, fishing, tubing ,kayaking and swimming.

The Parshallville Cider Mill in Livingston County, Michigan has been a local favorite for over 170 years. Every season, from September to late October, it opens its doors to thousands of locals and tourists needing a taste of hometown sweetness. In addition to its delicious cider, the mill also offers freshly baked donuts, apple pies and fritters. Visitors can enjoy exploring the antique farm equipment on exhibit or pick pumpkins from the courtesy patch.

This well-preserved slice of American history transports you to the 19th century, with its lovingly restored buildings and charming period dress. But let's be real, the real attraction here is the goats. That's right, goats. These furry little guys roam the streets freely, adding a touch of whimsy to your journey through the past. Don't get me wrong, the historical aspect is amazing too, with informative displays and docents who are happy to answer any questions.