302 Lake/ River/ Ponds to Explore in Michigan

Checkout places to visit in Michigan

Michigan

Michigan is a diverse and vibrant state that has a lot to offer its residents. From popular tourist attractions like Mackinac Island and the iconic MotorCity Casino Hotel to outdoor recreational activities like skiing, biking and snowmobiling in the Upper Peninsula, there is something for everyone in Michigan. With its unique blend of rural charm and urban sophistication, the state boasts some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the country, as well as major metropolitan areas including Det

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Lake/ River/ Ponds to Explore in Michigan

Alcona Dam Pond

Alcona Dam Pond, is a great destination for anyone looking to connect with nature. This pond is full of life; visitors can spot a variety of birds and other wildlife while fishing, boating, or swimming in its clear blue waters. The area around the lake is comprised mostly of trees, making it a tranquil spot for relaxing walks and picnicking. What really makes this site unique are the 19th century mining ruins you can find near the shoreline.

Allen Lake

Allen Lake, is a popular spot for swimming and fishing. Measuring around 2 miles across and 20 feet deep at its maximum depth, this lake is home to several species of fish including northern pike, largemouth bass, andbluegill. Locals enjoy relaxing on the sandy beach or out on a canoe. During the summer months, visitors can also take advantage of the nearby campgrounds so they can truly experience the beauty of this picturesque lake.

Arcadia Lake

Arcadia Lake, is a picturesque vacation spot for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike. Tucked away in the forests of northwest Lower Michigan, this lake features 75 acres of sparkling blue water surrounded by rolling hills, sand dunes and tall forests. The lake is perfect for boating and fishing, with plenty of nearby hiking trails and recreation areas offering a range of activities for people of all ages.

Arnold Lake

Arnold Lake, is a picturesque body of water that attracts visitors from all over the country. It features clear blue waters and is bordered by sandy beaches and lush forests. For anglers, the lake's warm shallow waters are stocked with a variety of species, including large-mouth bass, walleye and panfish. Boaters will enjoy the calm waters and plentiful opportunities to explore nearby coves and inlets. With convenient camping facilities available at multiple locations on Arnold Lake.

Asylum Lake

Asylum Lake, is an oasis for nature lovers. The lake is surrounded by acres of verdant forests and meadows where birds, deer, coyotes and other wildlife abound. The beauty of the area has been carefully preserved; it is accessible to the public but has no development or commercial activity. Mossy Creek at the west end of Asylum Lake feeds into a tranquil pond ringed by trees that make it a delightful spot for contemplation and relaxation.

Au Sable Lake

This beloved destination offers an array of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including fishing, swimming, boating, and camping. With crystal-clear waters that sparkle on even the cloudiest days, Au Sable Lake boasts both rustic charm and modern amenities. Whether you're seeking a quiet weekend getaway or an action-packed adventure, this stunning destination is sure to leave a lasting impression. So why not pack your bags, gather your loved ones.

Au Train Lake

Au Train Lake is an idyllic spot located in Alger County, Michigan. It offers visitors one of the best year round fishing experiences they can find in the Upper Peninsula. The lake is home to many varieties of fish, including walleye, perch and whitefish. Boaters will enjoy exploring the winding shoreline and there are plenty of spots for swimming and relaxing near the water. With its abundance of wildlife and stunning views, it truly is a sight to behold for all nature lovers.

Austin Lake

Austin Lake is a gorgeous spot located in Kalamazoo County. Its serene and picturesque surroundings boast both beauty and eclectic wildlife. The lake is mostly used for fishing, and many anglers flock to its waters throughout the seasons hoping to get a bite from the lake's muskie, pike, panfish, Perry, and trout. Because of the amazing array of aquatic life that can be found in Austin Lake, it has become a popular destination for boaters who constantly revel in its breathtaking views.

Baldwin Lake

Baldwin Lake is a picturesque and serene natural scene that just begs for exploration. Known for its fishing opportunities, the intricate waterway harbors an abundance of different species such as Bluegill, Rock Bass, Perch, Bullhead Catfish, Northern Pike and Walleye. The lake also covers 990 acres of open land and forests which can easily be explored on foot or kayak all together creating a stunning landscape that anyone can enjoy.

Barlow Lake

Its crystal-clear waters draw fishermen and swimmers alike, while its wooded banks provide a perfect escape for walking trails and lush recreation. This beautiful body of water spans nine miles long and its maximum depth is 9 feet. Boaters can access the lake from the Stone Mill Creek public launch, while summer visitors can sunbathe on Coconut Beach. For the outdoor enthusiast, there are plenty of diverse wildlife to observe, such as beaver and deer.

Barnes Lake

Barnes Lake is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From fishing and boating to hiking and swimming, there is no shortage of activities. The clear blue waters provide stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests, while also providing ideal conditions for aquatic wildlife. For those looking to explore the great outdoors on land, the nature trails nearby are a great way to experience the beauty of nature at its finest.

Bass Lake

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.

Baw Beese Lake

Baw Beese Lake is a large body of water located in Hillsdale County, Michigan. It serves as the focal point of the 435-acre Baw Beese State Park, which is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, ducks, and muskrats. The lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with species that include bluegill, largemouth bass, and northern pike. Other activities enjoyed at the lake include swimming, boating-- both powered and nonpowered - and birdwatching.

Bear Lake

Bear Lake, boasts a seven-mile long lake as well as encompassing over six hundred acres of farmlands and forests. Its shores are rich with biodiversity; fishing for northern pike and other fish is popular among visitors to the lake. The lake itself is deep enough for boating and sailing, while there are also plenty of opportunities to explore by foot. In addition to the water activities, many visitors enjoy camping on its wooded shores or exploring the nearby trails.

Bear Lake

Bear Lake is a stunning lake that draws visitors from across the state. With crystal clear waters, it's an ideal spot to spend a day fishing or just admiring its beauty with a leisurely paddle around the shoreline. Bear Lake is also host to an array of recreational activities as campsites and trails dot the surrounding area. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway away from the hustle and bustle of city life or planning a family vacation packed with outdoor adventures.

Beatons Lake

Beatons Lake is a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Michigan's scenic Ontonagon. This pristine lake offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. The surrounding forest provides ample opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape in nature or an action-packed adventure, Beatons Lake has something for everyone. Take in the breathtaking scenery and embrace the tranquility of this enchanting destination.

Beatons Lake

Beatons Lake is a beautiful body of water surrounded by lush trees and shrubs. The lake is popular among outdoor adventurers and anglers, who can take advantage of the excellent fishing opportunities including Walleye, Northern Pike and smallmouth bass. Not only that, but Beatons Lake also has a beach great for swimming during the warm summer months. Campers love spending time around the tranquil environment created by this picturesque lake.

Beaver Lake County Park

Beaver Lake County Park is a beautiful park perfect for family outings. Located on the shores of Lake Huron, Beaver Lake offers plenty of space to explore, including 11 miles of trails through forests and marshlands filled with local wildlife. Visitors can play close to the lake on the beach or take to their boats and launch from its marina facilities. Golfers will find an excellent 18-hole championship course with breathtaking views.

Belleville Lake

Belleville Lake, is a gem that's often overlooked. Sure, it's not as big and flashy as some of the other lakes in the area, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in charm. The lake is a popular spot for anglers, with an abundance of bass and bluegill to be caught. And if you're not into fishing, there are still plenty of other activities to enjoy, like paddling around in a kayak or canoe, or taking a leisurely stroll along the scenic shore.

Benton Lake

Benton Lake is a beautiful destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The lake, spanning over 100 acres, is home to a variety of fish species, making it a popular spot for fishing. Visitors can also enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and birdwatching, as the lake is surrounded by lush vegetation and is a habitat for many bird species. The lake is a part of the Muskegon River Watershed and is an important source of water for the surrounding communities.

Map of Lake/ River/ Ponds to explore in Michigan