Ultimate Guide to Beaches and Parks in Metro Detroit

Brighton Recreation Area

Brighton Recreation Area, managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, encompasses 4,947 acres of picturesque hills and lakes perfect for various water recreational activities.

Beach Features

Bishop Lake offers a swimming spot beside a picnic area, though it lacks a traditional sandy beach. Available amenities include boat rentals, a concession stand, and a volleyball court.

Chilson Pond features a vast lawn with a unique swimming area composed of marshy, brown water. While fishing is generally permitted, there is currently an advisory against fishing in certain waters. Amenities include a playground and a concession stand.

Island Lake Recreation Area

The Kent Lake beach area features a large, grassy area paired with a sandy beach. Warm waters make it ideal for swimming, while canoe, paddle boat, and rowboat rentals are available. However, the beach’s close proximity to a freeway can sometimes detract from the natural experience.

Clarkston: Independence Oaks County Park

The beach at Independence Oaks is small yet welcoming, featuring clear water pumped from the lake to create a current. This area is managed with a lifeguard-protected, shallow swimming zone, ensuring safety for all visitors.

Commerce Township: Proud Lake Recreation Area

Proud Lake features a sandy beach on a small, man-made pond. Visitors can wade to a fishing island or utilize the camper-only beach area with a boat ramp.

Detroit: Belle Isle

Belle Isle is home to a lengthy, mile-and-a-half beach, offering a variety of summer activities along the Detroit River. Although the water is not crystal clear, it still invites swimmers looking for a unique urban experience.

Holly: Groveland Oaks County Park

The beach area of Groveland Oaks is relatively small, featuring soft sand and a roped-off swimming zone, ensuring safety for all visitors. Enjoy amenities like mini-golf, camping, and bike rentals within this park.

Holly: Holly Recreation Area

Holly Recreation Area boasts beach access at Heron Lake and Wildwood Lake, providing visitors with options for both socializing and tranquility. A variety of amenities, including a concession stand and boat rentals, are also available.

Holly: Seven Lakes State Park

This park features an extensive beach area with events like hot-air balloon launches adding to its charm. Visitors enjoy a well-equipped concession stand, volleyball court, and boat rental opportunities.

Lake Orion: Bald Mountain Recreation Area

Voted “Best of Detroit” by Detroit Monthly, Bald Mountain features a beautiful sandy beach surrounded by grassy hills, providing a scenic setting for individuals and families alike.

Leonard: Addison Oaks County Park

Primarily a swimming hole, Addison Oaks features a more tranquil atmosphere, with an emphasis on creating a natural shoreline to enhance local wildlife habitats.

Metamora: Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area

Located at the tip of a long lake, this beach area offers ample space with fine sand and float rentals for leisurely aquatic activities.

Milford: Kensington Metropark

With popular beaches like Maple Beach and Martindale Beach, Kensington Metropark ensures fun for all ages, featuring lifeguarded swimming areas, concession stands, and numerous recreational activities.

Mount Clemens: Lake St.Clair Metropark

Famous for its extensive beach and entertainment options, Lake St. Clair offers visitors bright sand, amenities, and activities year-round.

Shelby Township: Stony Creek Metropark

Stony Creek features popular beaches, perfect for singles or families, equipped with various sports facilities and rental services to enhance the outdoor experience.

Waterford: Dodge #4 State Park

The shallow swimming area at Dodge #4 is frequented by families, making it ideal on hot summer days. Facilities include a concession stand and opportunities for fishing.

Waterford: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area

Pontiac Lake showcases a wide sandy beach and extensive picnic areas for families to enjoy. The area is ideal for swimming and often frequented by swans.

Whitmore Lake: Independence Lake Park

The secluded beach area at Independence Lake Park features shaded spots and patrol services for safe swimming. The clear waters invite both relaxation and recreation.