11 Lake/ River/ Ponds to Explore in Livingston County

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.

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.

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.

Kent Lake is a beautiful 735 acre lake located in Livingston County, Michigan. It is incredibly popular with both anglers and outdoors enthusiasts alike due to its plentiful population of bass, walleye and panfish. The shoreline is surrounded by woods, which provide much appreciated shade during the hot summer months. Thanks to its shallow waters, you can easily find a spot for swimming or simply cool off after an afternoon of boating or fishing.

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.

Lake Livingston, just a few miles from the Ohio border. It is known for its pristine lake waters and outstanding fishing opportunities. Visitors to the lake can enjoy activities such as bass and walleye fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing, and more. The area also provides access to an abundance of recreational facilities including beaches, picnic areas, hiking trails, and playgrounds. With its wonderful outdoor adventures and fantastic scenery, Lake Livingston truly offers something.

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.

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.

Thompson Lake itself is gorgeous with crystal clear water and plenty of room for swimming, boating, skiing, or just peacefully drifting along. There are lovely cottages built around the edge of the lake which offer guests amazing views from their spacious balconies. In addition to the lake activities, there are plenty of hiking trails where visitors will get to experience breathtaking natural beauty as well as see some of Michigan’s diverse wildlife.

Tioga Lake is a beautiful lake known for its pristine water quality and abundant natural beauty. The deepest point in the lake is 15 feet, making it ideal for swimming, boating, and fishing. Tioga Lake offers plenty of activities such as kayaking, canoeing, sailing, skiing, and more. A variety of wildlife can be seen while out on the water or along the trails that circle the lake from every angle. There are also camping spots nearby to allow visitors to take in its stunning scenery with ease.

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.