Island Lake Recreation Area spans 4,000 acres of scenic state land in southeast Michigan. It's a popular destination for mountain biking, paddling, hiking, swimming, triathlon training, picnicking, fishing, hunting and trapping. The park also features a state-of-the-art shooting range with options for sporting clays, skeet, trap, as well as dedicated rifle and pistol ranges. With its natural, undeveloped ambiance, Island Lake boasts four inland lakes, the Huron River and a blend of hardwood forests and open meadows.
The Huron River meanders through the park and offers breathtaking scenery and paddling opportunities that resemble an "up north" experience. The river is managed as a Designated State Natural River and National Water Trail System.
The park offers a 4-mile, out-and-back, paved trail which connects to the Kensington Metropark Bike Trail and the Huron Valley Trail, which are also paved.
As part of our commitment to restoring oak barren natural communities, Island Lake has undertaken extensive efforts to remove invasive and non-native trees. To further these restoration initiatives, we continue to manage invasive species, conduct tree removals and implement prescribed burns.
The park has a rich history, which includes Spanish American War encampments, the Dodge Brothers and Babe Ruth.
Do Not Eat Fish' and 'Avoid Foam' advisories have been issued for sections of the Huron River and associated water bodies in Oakland, Livingston, Washtenaw and Wayne counties because high levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (or PFAS) may be present. Find consumption guidelines for fish with elevated PFOS levels.
An accessible beach house is located on Kent Lake and includes restrooms and vending machines.
There's an accessible fishing pier located on Island Lake. 'Do Not Eat Fish' and 'Avoid Foam' advisories have been issued for the Huron River, which includes Kent Lake.
The park offers an accessible hunting blind. Call the park to make a reservation.
There are 6 picnic shelters located throughout the park that include picnic tables, charcoal grills, electrical (4 sites) and vault toilets and/or modern restrooms. Shelter reservations can be made 12 months in advance at MiDNRReservations.com.
An accessible playground featuring slides, a balance beam and a climbing wall is located at Kent Lake Beach. A basketball hoop and soccer nets are located nearby as well.
The park's track chair expands access beyond traditional wheelchairs. The chair is available for visitors to borrow at no cost.
Four inland lakes and the Huron River are located in the park. Kent Lake is a popular destination for swimming and triathlon training. The park’s portion of the Huron River is managed as a Designated State Natural River and has been designated as the 18th trail of the National Water Trail System.
An accessible sidewalk leads to the edge of the water at Kent Lake beach.
You may not possess or consume an alcoholic beverage at any time in the park, except for rented shelters and overnight lodging locations (unless the park manager has granted written authorization through an event permit).
Biking is available on a 4.5-mile linear paved path which connects to Kensington Metropark and the Huron Valley Trail. Biking is also popular on the parks paved roadways. A hard surfaced connector path to the Green Oak Village Place Mall provides nonmotorized access to the parks west end.
There are ample fishing opportunities in the park’s four inland lakes, streams and the Huron River. 'Do Not Eat Fish' and 'Avoid Foam' advisories have been issued for the Huron River, which includes Kent Lake.
The Hickory Ridge Hiking Trail is the park's sole designated hiking path, winding through 5 miles of diverse habitats and offering options for shorter loops. In addition to this trail, hikers can also enjoy shared bike trails, where it’s recommended to hike in the opposite direction of cyclists for a safer experience.
Hunting is allowed in the state park; however, you should call the park directly to inquire about any special rules, concerns or considerations.
Metal detecting is allowed in certain park areas. Please consult the park map for designated locations and review applicable regulations. Only registered campers can metal detect in campgrounds.
There are four modern restrooms in the park. Two are located at Kent Lake, and the others are located at Spring Mill Pond and Island Lake. Modern restrooms are open daily mid-April through October.
The park offers three mountain biking opportunities on trails that are shared with hikers. The Blue Trail is 9.1 miles, The Yellow Trail is 5.6 miles and The Purple Trail is 3.2 miles. The Purple Trail, also known at The Badlands, is well known for fat-tire biking.
The park offers multiple canoe and kayak access points along the Huron River, perfect for paddlers. A primitive overnight camping opportunity is available for those on paddling trips. There's a dam within the park that requires a portage.
There are picnic areas on Kent Lake, Spring Mill Pond and Island Lake that include picnic tables and charcoal grills. They are available first come, first served.
The Island Lake Shooting Range includes clay target, rifle and pistol shooting opportunities. There are member/nonmember user fees in addition to the Recreation Passport.
The park is open to snowmobiling on open land (ie. backcountry snowmobiling). Snowmobiles are prohibited east of Kensington Road, the reclamation mine site (contact park office for more details) and paved surfaces.
Two buoyed swim areas are located on Kent Lake and Spring Mill Pond.
The canoe campground, situated along the Huron River, offers two sites only accessible by canoe or kayak. Amenities include a vault toilet, fire ring and picnic table. There is no potable water available, so be sure to bring your own water or a water filter. Additionally, boat rentals are not offered by the park.
Please note that there is a one-night maximum stay, as these sites are designed for paddlers on the river.
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There are two rustic cabins located centrally in the park, each accommodating up to 15 guests. These cabins come with bunk beds, tables, benches and a propane furnace. While there's no electricity or running water, a hand pump is conveniently located nearby for fresh water. Linens, towels, cookware, plates and utensils are not provided. Outside, enjoy a fire pit, picnic table and a large charcoal grill, with vault toilets located nearby for convenience.
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There are two sites available for groups of up to 50. Each site provides a picnic table and fire pit. There is a hand pump for water and a vault toilet.
Reservations can be made by calling the park office.
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