Need to beat the heat of summer, but don’t want to make the drive Up North or to Lake Michigan? Need to relieve your mind and relax by the water? Never fear, for Grand Rapids is blessed with several inland lakes nearby that offer access to the general public. Join us as we hit the water and share with you the best inland lakes around Grand Rapids.
Map of Grand Rapids Area Lakes
REEDS LAKE (East Grand Rapids)
Anchoring East Grand Rapids’ Gaslight Village shopping corridor, this immensely popular and longtime favorite lake has plenty of recreational opportunities for you. Reeds Lake features trails, a fishing dock, scenic overlooks, gardens and a public boat launch. You can gain access to the lake from John Collins Park (located on the west side of the lake) or John Bonnell Park (located on the east side of the lake). Frequent visitors to the lake boast about the 4.2-mile-long paved trail that circles the lake. Reeds Lake is a great place for birdwatchers as well, with the great blue heron, Canada geese and the trumpeter swan finding solace in this watery habitat. Reeds Lake is home to a triathlon in September and a race in June. After you have spent some much-needed time on the lake, make sure and take a stroll around Gaslight Village for some shopping, food, and entertainment. Located 10 minutes from Grand Rapids.
PICKEREL LAKE (Rockford)
Located near Cannonsburg, just off Belding Road (M-44) and south of the three sister lakes (Bostwick Lake, Silver Lake and Lake Bella Vista), Pickerel Lake is surrounded by nothing but nature. With generous contributions from Frederik Meijer, Pickerel Lake exists undeveloped today as Pickerel Lake Park – Fred Meijer Nature Preserve. This lake features trails, nature observation, fishing, cross-country skiing and an 800-foot floating boardwalk. Meander several trails through wooded areas, larch swamps, and sandy knolls as you admire the scenic views of Pickerel Lake. Afterward, head to Cannonsburg and it’s historic Honey Creek Inn for dinner and a beverage. Located 25 minutes from Grand Rapids.
WABASIS LAKE (Greenville)
Located a few miles east of Rockford lies a water playground. Wabasis Lake offers trails, swimming, volleyball, fishing, baseball diamonds, basketball courts and a campground. The lake is 416 acres in size and its deepest point measures 60 feet. People rave about the free sandy beach on the southwest shore, which one can access for free. Feel like you need to get away from the big city and aren’t wanting to travel too far? Wabasis Lake offers 90 campground sites and several cabins for the adventurous. Located 35 minutes from Grand Rapids.
MYERS LAKE (Rockford)
Located just a few miles northeast of Rockford is a tranquil park wedged between two lakes; Myers Lake and Little Myers Lake. Myers Lake is well-known to locals searching for a slice of nature right outside of the big city. Offering fishing, picnicking, playgrounds, and swimming, Myers Lake has something for everyone. Wade into the water to cast your line and catch a crappie or sunfish, or take a dive into the refreshing waters. Afterward, head to Rockford’s charming downtown to sample a wood-fired pizza or craft beer. Located 25 minutes from Grand Rapids.
CROCKERY LAKE (Casnovia)
Located six miles west of Sparta, small Crockery Lake is great for all ages looking to have some fun on or in the water. Anchored by Ottawa County’s Grose Park, this lake offers swimming, playgrounds, picnic tables, grills, trails, volleyball courts, a horseshoe pit and a fishing dock. Grose Park sits on a bluff overlooking the lake, and is a perfect place to sit by the water and read a book, throw some food on the grill and listen to the calm waters surrounding you. After you have had your deserved beach time, head to the Kazz Bar and Grill for a mouthwatering burger and cold beer. Located 30 minutes from Grand Rapids.
GUN LAKE (Middleville)
Definitely the biggest inland lake within a 45-minute radius of Grand Rapids, Gun Lake offers all the recreational opportunities (on and off the water) that you can imagine. From fishing, swimming, boating and watersports to hiking, biking, and camping, Gun Lake has you covered. Encompassing almost 10 square miles, Yankee Springs Recreation Area is an extremely popular recreation destination for those from Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. There is plenty of room to spread out on this nearly four-square-mile lake. After enjoying a nice day on the lake, head to Sandy’s Country Kitchen for some comfort food or more upscale dining at the Bay Pointe Inn. Located 40 minutes from Grand Rapids.
Millennium Park (Grand Rapids)
Grand Rapids’ own Millennium Park has lots to offer. With miles of trails to hike or bike that connects Grand Rapids to Grandville, you can take a walk then dive into the ice cold water. They’ve done a great job creating a place where anyone can enjoy the amenities. There is a splash pad, sandy beaches, and picnic areas. There is an entrance fee, but it’s minimal and you can even get a yearly membership.
Thank you for letting us share our favorite inland lakes in the Grand Rapids area. Next time you just need to get away but don’t feel like driving for hours, keep these options in mind. If you have questions,
feel free to contact us, we are happy to help!
