7 Lake/ River/ Ponds to Explore in Hillsdale County

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, 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.

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.

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.

Cub Lake is located on the north side of Hillsdale County and is often considered to be a paradise for nature lovers. This lake features clear blue waters surrounded by lush rolling hills and green trees. Water activities are plentiful with swimming, fishing, and boating being particularly popular routes for tourists to explore the lake's beauty. Hiking around the lake allows visitors to catch glimpses of various species like deer, turtles and birds from up close.

Hemlock Lake is a wildlife paradise and a popular destination easily accessible from the surrounding towns and cities, the lake is home to plentiful fish species including trout, smallmouth bass and northern pike, drawing sports anglers from far and wide. On shore, visitors find plenty of nature trails that meander through lush forest habitats populated by deer and songbirds. For those who prefer to watch rather than wander, Hemlock Lake offers an abundance of bird watching opportunities.

Lake Somerset is a stunning lake surrounded by picturesque bluffs, heavily wooded shorelines, and crystal clear waters. The lake stretches over 17 acres and provides many recreational opportunities such as fishing, swimming, canoeing/kayaking, sailing, jet skiing and more. The lake also boasts an array of wildlife. With two boat landings on the western side of the lake, accessibility is easy from most locations around the surrounding area.