Lakes around Southfield, Michigan, provide natural escapes within an urban environment. The region is part of larger watershed systems, with Carpenter Lake serving as a notable local feature. This 5-acre man-made lake is the centerpiece of the 44-acre Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve, offering nearly 1 mile of nature trails and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. Southfield's lakes provide accessible natural beauty and recreational activities.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
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Orchard Lake is a 795-acre lake in Orchard Lake Village and is the second deepest in the county. It is a popular spot for swimming and boating, and there are 2 islands in the lake.
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Gorgeous hike this time of year. The huckleberry leaves painted the trail with the reds and yellows of autumn. Though much of the trek in is in the burn scar, it DOES reveal sooo much more for landscape scale views of the Forest land that otherwise would be blocked by the closed canopy of dense trees. Trail is mellow for steepness, some rocky and muddy sections, but overall in great condition. Magical views of Jeff from the meadow.
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Woodpecker Lake in Oakland County is a peaceful spot and a great place to ride past on the West Bloomfield Trail. This is a great spot to keep an eye out for birds and other animals as you zip past.
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Constructed on an old railroad line, the park melds industrial history with natural beauty. Seek out bridges and tunnels remnants that echo the region's past. Experience the park's seasonal evolution, relishing serene Quarton Lake vistas and tranquil ambiance.
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This beautiful lake is located on the Cranbrook campus. Although it started as a small pond, it was later expanded to become a lake. The Kingswood Lake Trail completely encircles it and along the way, you'll discover charming spots to enjoy the views or the nature, as well as art, such as the sculpture 'Two Girls Dancing' by Carl Milles located on the shore.
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If you are looking for a quiet and peaceful run to enjoy nature, you should visit Woodpecker Lake in Oakland County. It is surrounded by trees and wildlife, and you can hear the sound of woodpeckers pecking on the branches. You can run around the lake and admire the scenery. This lake is a hidden gem that offers an invigorating and refreshing escape from running the city.
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Enjoy the calm waters of Woodpecker Lake from a little lookout located along West Broomfield Trail. Unfortunately the lake is not accessible to the public so you're unable to swim or partake in watersports here, but you can still admire its serenity from the sideline.
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Quarton Lake is located on Detroit's west side and features a waterfall, ducks and plenty of fresh air. There is a well-maintained, compact gravel path that spans the entire east side of the lake.
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The lakes around Southfield offer diverse natural beauty. For example, Woodpecker Lake is surrounded by trees and wildlife, providing a quiet experience. Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve, centered around a five-acre lake, features woodlands, forested wetlands, and native meadows. It's a haven for waterfowl, Great Egrets, Great Blue Herons, turtles, salamanders, and wood frogs.
Yes, several lakes are family-friendly. Orchard Lake, Quarton Lake Park, and Kingswood Lake are all categorized as family-friendly. Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve also offers nearly one mile of stroller-friendly nature trails, making it accessible for families.
You'll find various hiking opportunities. Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve has nearly one mile of nature trails with interpretive signs. For more options, you can explore easy hikes like the Woodland Hills Loop or the Linden Park and Quarton Lake Loop. Find more details on these and other trails in the Easy hikes around Southfield guide.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Carpenter Lake is a well-known spot for fishing, inhabited by largemouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill, sunfish, and minnows. Easily accessible fishing and viewing platforms are available for visitors there.
Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve offers nearly one mile of nature trails that are noted as being stroller-friendly. Additionally, Quarton Lake Park features a well-maintained, compact gravel path along the east side of the lake, which is generally accessible.
Visitors often praise the lakes for their peaceful solitude and accessible natural beauty within an urban setting. Many appreciate the opportunities for wildlife observation, tranquil walks, and the refreshing escape from city life. For instance, Woodpecker Lake is noted for its quiet and peaceful experience, surrounded by trees and wildlife.
Orchard Lake is a popular spot for both swimming and boating, being one of the largest and deepest lakes in the county. While some lakes like Woodpecker Lake are not accessible for swimming or watersports, they offer scenic views.
Yes, Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve features a unique boulder garden at the front of the park. This garden showcases various rock types brought from Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Wisconsin, and southeast Ontario, offering an interesting geological display.
Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve provides public parking and a heated restroom that is open year-round, enhancing visitor comfort. Quarton Lake Park also offers parking and well-maintained paths.
Yes, for example, the Kingswood Lake Trail completely encircles Kingswood Lake, offering charming spots to enjoy views and nature. Many of the trails mentioned in the Easy hikes around Southfield guide are also loops.
Woodpecker Lake is often described as a hidden gem, offering a quiet and peaceful experience surrounded by trees and wildlife. Visitors can admire its serenity from the sideline, making it ideal for those seeking solitude.
While specific lake-side cycling trails might vary, the Southfield area offers several options for mountain biking. You can explore routes like the Normandy Oaks Park Pond loop or the Elm Grove Recreation Area loop. More details can be found in the MTB Trails around Southfield guide.
Near Kingswood Lake on the Cranbrook campus, you can discover art such as the sculpture 'Two Girls Dancing' by Carl Milles. Additionally, Quarton Lake Park, constructed on an old railroad line, melds industrial history with natural beauty, with remnants of bridges and tunnels echoing the region's past.


Still not found your perfect lake around Southfield? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.