302 Lake/ River/ Ponds to Explore in Michigan

Bertha Lake, is an idyllic spot with beautiful scenery. Located near the Pere Marquette State Forest, the lake has a peaceful atmosphere that makes it perfect for a quiet retreat. Surrounded by evergreen forests and marshlands, Bertha Lake offers recreational activities like fishing, swimming, and kayaking. Camping sites with RV hookups can be found nearby, as well as plenty of trails to explore with opportunities to spot wildlife.

The Betsie River is a popular destination for fishing and kayaking among other activities. It contains three major streams that join together to form one continuous river with a variety of experiences suitable for all levels of adventure-seekers. The river runs through 10 miles of countryside surrounded by a lush forest, making it easy to spot local wildflowers, birds and other wildlife. Its fast-moving current makes it an exciting path for first-time rafters or kayakers.

Big Island Lake is a breathtakingly beautiful body of water located in Michigan's Schoolcraft County. With its crystal clear waters and verdant surroundings, the lake is a popular destination for kayaking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Visitors to the area can also enjoy scenic hiking trails and campgrounds that overlook the water. If you're looking for a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature, Big Island Lake is the perfect place to escape and unwind.

Birch Lake, is a stunning body of water known for its pristine waters and abundant wildlife. It’s no wonder that locals and visitors alike keep coming back to spend time on and around the lake. Its tranquil setting is perfect for everything from fishing and swimming to boating and camping; in particular, the lake is known for being home to some of the best bass fishing in the area. Clear water, sandy beaches, and quiet coves make it the highlight of many vacations.

Bird Lake is a beautiful, peaceful lake and an excellent fishing spot for those who enjoy angling for bass and bluegill, and it's also popular for swimming and other recreational activities. The lake is around 120 acres in size with a depth of approximately 40 feet at its deepest point, making it perfect for diving and exploring the aquatic life underneath. In the evenings, you can take a peaceful stroll around the pristine shoreline listening to the loons call out as they paddle by.

Black Lake is a stunningly beautiful lake that offers visitors gorgeous views and plenty of recreation options. It is the third largest inland lake of all the Great Lakes, covering nearly 11,000 acres and spanning 32 miles long. The lake itself is well known for its smallmouth bass fishing, along with perch, walleye and muskie fishing areas. Swimming and boating activities are also popular on the lake due to its clear waters and protected shores.

Black Lake in Presque Isle County, Michigan is a picturesque location that offers endless outdoor activities for visitors. The lake is the seventh largest inland lake in Michigan and boasts crystal clear waters that are popular for swimming, boating, and fishing. Anglers flock to the lake for its abundance of fish, including bass, walleye, and perch. Black Lake is also surrounded by lush forests, making it a great destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

Black River is an idyllic spot located within the western Upper Peninsula. Spanning seven miles, this river supplies all kinds of recreational activities for local residents, including kayaking and fishing. Nature enthusiasts flock to this tranquil destination for birds watching; there are over 18 species that call the region home. Adjacent to a variety of parks and trails makes it easy to explore the stunning beauty of Black River.

Black River Lake is a beautiful lake located in Michigan. It is the perfect place to relax, swim, or boat. It has a tranquil setting, with rocky bluffs, long sandy beaches and plenty of trees around its shoreline. The lake is also home to some of the best fishing spots in the county; bass and panfish can both be found here. Those looking for more active activities are often delighted by its white water rafting opportunities on the Black River. With so much beauty and nature around it.

The Boardman River is a major tributary of Lake Michigan, winding through forests, meadows and wetlands before eventually joining the lake. It's a popular spot for a variety of recreational activities like fishing and paddling, but also provides vital habitat for numerous species of bird, fish, amphibians and reptiles. Along its path there are several historic sites that emphasize the importance of this area in both Native American and white settler history.

Bond Falls is a stunning natural attraction located in Ontonagon County, Michigan. Its beauty can be attributed to a series of cascading waterfalls that drop about 50 feet over a rocky terrain. Visitors are treated to a breathtaking view of the falls as they surround themselves with nature's wonders. The falls also have a well-maintained boardwalk that provides easy access to the falls, making it an exciting destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.

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.

Nestled in the heart of Newaygo County, lies the serene and picturesque Brooks Lake. This hidden gem boasts crystal clear water perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. With its lush trees and peaceful surroundings, it's the ideal spot for a quiet weekend getaway or a family vacation. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a nature lover's paradise. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, Brooks Lake has something for everyone.

Brule Lake is a beautiful sight. Nestled in the Huron National Forest on the Penokee Range, it boasts crystal-clear waters and excellent fishing opportunities. With its lush green shoreline and thick pine forests providing plenty of shade, outdoor adventurers can appreciate the secluded feeling that Brule Lake brings to their experience. Kayaking and canoeing are very popular in the lake due to its meandering shape which allows for some gorgeous views.

Budd Lake is a popular natural lake offering year-round activities, visitors can explore the lake by fishing, kayaking, canoeing, swimming and experiencing water sports. Nearby attractions include parks, trails and campgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts who want to experience the outdoors in all seasons. The Cedar River is nearby for those who enjoy boating and fishing or immersing themselves in the rich history of milling and logging that have shaped the region.

Burt Lake, is one of the most picturesque bodies of water in the entire Great Lakes region. Boasting crystal clear turquoise waters and surrounded by forests. Despite its reputation for being a popular fishing and recreation spot, Burt Lake remains protected from large-scale development due to its location within the boundaries of the state park. From exploring miles of trails to kayaking or fishing to find abundant wildlife, there are plenty of outdoor activities.

Caribou Lake is a pristine lake located in Chippewa County, Michigan. It is surrounded by lush forests and beautiful streams. The lake serves as the perfect spot for hikers to enjoy the tranquility and serenity of nature. The banks of the lake provide places for campers to set up their tents, as well as for anglers looking for an ideal spot to cast their lines. The calm waters are crystal-clear blue and provide plenty of opportunities to explore its depths by canoe or kayak.

Carpenter Lake, nestled in the beautiful Hillsdale County of Michigan, is a lake that has something for everyone. Its peaceful waters are excellent for fishing, swimming and watercraft activities such as kayaking and canoeing. The scenic backdrop of multiple acres of woodland enhances its beauty. There is also a beach area that provides kilometers of shoreline along the lake to enjoy either on your own or with your family or friends. There are plenty of picnic areas.

Cass Lake, is one of the state's largest inland lakes. With crystal-clear waters and plenty of activities to enjoy, it's no wonder why visitors from all around flock to this scenic spot. From boating and fishing to hiking and picnicking, there is something for everyone to do. Additionally, the lake is surrounded by several parks, making it a prime spot for nature enthusiasts to take in the sights and sounds of the great outdoors.

Cedar Lake is a peaceful lakeside community offering tranquility, perfect for relaxing and fishing with its nearby Lake Huron coastline. Being only a short drive away from Harrisville State Park provides access to many outdoor activities. With fresh produce markets, general stores, and antique emporiums scattered across the village, it's the perfect escape from busy city life.