Island Lake State Recreation Area
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Island Lake State Recreation Area is a 4,000-acre park located in the state of Michigan.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
It is known for its diverse range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and camping. The park has over 100 campsites, six miles of trails, and two lakes, making it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Some of the main points of interest in Island Lake State Recreation Area include the beautiful lake views, the wooded hiking trails, and the abundance of wildlife. Visitors can also enjoy fishing in the lakes, which are home to a variety of fish, including bass, catfish, and pike.
One interesting fact about the park is that it is home to a rare species of turtle, the Blanding's turtle. These turtles are protected by the state of Michigan and can be found in the wetlands near the park. Visitors can also see other wildlife, such as deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.
The best time of year to visit Island Lake State Recreation Area is in the summer months, when the weather is warm and the park is in full bloom. However, visitors can also enjoy the park in the fall and winter, when the leaves change color and snowfall creates a winter wonderland.
Overall, Island Lake State Recreation Area is a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors in Michigan. With its beautiful scenery, diverse range of activities, and abundance of wildlife, it is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who visit.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Murray Lake - Brighton Rec Area
|
||
Appleton Lake - Brighton Rec Area
|
||
Bishop Lake - Brighton Rec Area
|
||
Group Camp 7
|
||
Group Camp 10
|
||
Group Camp 6
|
Huron Meadow Metropark
Brighton Recreation Area
Manly Bennett Memorial Park
Kensington Metropark
McHattie Park