Detroit might not always be associated with natural beauty, but there are so many pockets of splendor surrounding our wonderful city. In fact, one beautiful county near Detroit boasts hundreds of lovely inland lakes – and you’ll want to see some of them for yourself. Don’t let our city’s fast-paced vibe fool you: we love to relax, unwind, and appreciate the wonders of the natural world as much as anyone else.
Oakland County is familiar to most Detroiters, as it’s an important part of the Metro Detroit region. While the city of Detroit itself sits in Wayne County, Oakland is home to many of the area’s most well-known suburbs.
Google Maps
While you might associate Oakland County with Royal Oak, Ferndale, Pontiac, Southfield, Troy, and other bustling spots, it’s equally impressive for another reason: its abundance of breathtaking inland lakes.
Google Maps
Exact numbers vary by source, but it’s widely known that Oakland County houses more than 300 lakes. The list of publicly accessible lakes is much smaller, but this doesn’t detract from the county’s wonder.
Wikimedia Commons/Snapdragon66
If you’re a sucker for waterfront fun, you’ll find plenty to appreciate when you explore this region of Metro Detroit. The most well-known destinations include Pontiac Lake, Cass Lake, and Lake Orion, among others.
Google Reviews/Bernardo Bece Gom
Many of the county’s lakes are accompanied by green space and parks. Pontiac Lake Recreation Area offers trails, camping, and more alongside Pontiac Lake itself, not to mention a slew of smaller inland gems.
Google Reviews/W B
Try your hand at fishing in Big Lake, take your boat to the water via a public launch site on Cedar Island Lake, or take to the beach on Heron Lake within Holly Recreation Area. There’s no shortage of fun to be had.
Facebook/WhoaZone at Heron Lake
Of course, if it’s larger lakes you’re after, venture out of Oakland County to experience the many wonders of nearby Lake St. Clair and Lake Huron – not to mention the remaining Great Lakes that set Michigan apart.
Google Reviews/Charles Serdoner
As you plan for your next outdoor adventure near Detroit, keep Oakland County and its incredible lakes in mind. Whether you prefer to relax along the shore or take to the water, you’ll surely find a new favorite spot.
Flickr/Ken Lund
Have you made memories along any of the public or private lakes that set this beautiful county near Detroit apart? Which lake is your personal favorite? We love to hear from our readers, so share your thoughts with us in the Facebook comments or recommend another natural attraction in Metro Detroit by completing our nomination form.
Google Maps
Wikimedia Commons/Snapdragon66
Google Reviews/Bernardo Bece Gom
Google Reviews/W B
Facebook/WhoaZone at Heron Lake
Google Reviews/Charles Serdoner
Flickr/Ken Lund
Love spending time along the water? You’ll enjoy reading about this peaceful park and beach near Detroit.
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Address: Oakland County, MI, USA
