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Island Lake Recreation Area is a 4,000-acre park in Livingston County that offers an "up north" experience without leaving southeast Michigan. The terrain is a mixture of open brush land to mature hardwood forest, with some pockets of open meadows mixed in. Island Lake is the only balloon port in the state park system. Balloons usually take off in the early morning or late evening, depending on the wind and weather.
Located off of I-96 exit 151. Kensington Road park entrance is 1/4 mile east on Kensington Rd.
I love this place! It is the halfway point between one of my best friends and I and we have hiked, mountain biked, and kayaked here!
There is also a very wide paved trail, picnic area, volleyball court, fishing hole, and a playground!
The trails are marked, but there's hardly any markings that include the map, but I always had cell reception throughout the park and you can see the trail via Google Maps if you get lost!
Great place for lots of outdoor and water activities! Great lake views to just sit down and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Island Lake Recreation area is lovely. From the great Blue and Yellow mountain bike trails along the Huron River, along railroad tracks, and through wildflower strewn glades, this place never disappoints with its diverse beauty. There are also great kayak paddles to be found here, from the dam to Placeway, or trips from Placeway, upstream and back. Unbeatable natural beauty and wildlife at every turn. It’s a treasure of our area.
This beach ⛱ is absolutely amazing! Love the diversity of families ❤ here. People are very friendly and pleasant. I've been coming here over twenty years & it's still incredible. Extremely clean, Water was perfect temperature (Bonus) No matter what season you visit, it's a great place for ZeN. Swimming 🏊♂️, Kayaking, Fishing 🎣., Biking, or just walking around. One of the best places Pure Michigan has to offer.
