Island Lake Recreation Area is a 4,000-acre park in the Brighton Howell Area that offers an “up north” experience. The terrain consists of open brushland and mature hardwood forest, with some pockets of open meadows. The main recreation area entrance is conveniently located off of I96 at Kent Lake Road, just a few miles from downtown Brighton.

Island Lake Recreation Area has one of the nation’s safest shooting ranges. The park also offers great canoeing, volleyball courts, picnic shelters, swimming, and more. Plus, there are access points to the Huron River Water Trail, and the park has over 23 miles of hiking and biking trails.

Vending machines, picnic tables, bathrooms, and grills are stationed throughout the park. All amenities at Island Lake Recreation Area are first-come-first-served. The Park is also home to three campgrounds for year-round use.

To enter, you must have a state recreation pass on your license plate or view details about passes online.

Beaches:

This recreation area’s main body of water is the Spring Mill Pond. This water is the perfect place to enjoy the outdoor elements during your visit. The pond is spring-fed, so the water stays cool and clear every season. Since it’s a pond, you can swim straight across if you are a strong swimmer.

Click here for information on the track chair reservation.

Overnight Stays:

Island Lake Recreation Area proudly offers the canoe campground, the rustic bunk house, and a group use area for overnight stays in the park. The canoe campground is located next to the Huron River and offers two campsites where you can paddle to your front door. Amenities at these locations include vault toilets, a fire ring, and a picnic table. There is no potable water available, so be sure to bring your own water or a water filter.