Top 4 Lakes around Forest Hills
Best lakes around Forest Hills are primarily found within the adjacent Flushing Meadows-Corona Park and Forest Park. This area, bordering Forest Hills, New York, features significant green spaces with notable bodies of water. Flushing Meadows-Corona Park hosts Meadow Lake, the largest freshwater lake in New York City, and Willow Lake, a 47-acre wildlife sanctuary. Forest Park also contains various ponds, offering tranquil spots for nature observation.
Best lakes around Forest Hills
- The most popular lakes is Pickerel Lake, a…
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Gaslight Village
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Pickerel Lake
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Reeds Lake
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Warren Townsend Park
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Reed Lake Trail at Waterfront Park
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Tips from the Community
Warren Townsend Park is a beautiful green space in Grand Rapids. There is a small lake that is a popular fishing spot, picnic areas, and a playground.
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Reeds Lake is a freshwater lake covering 265 acres, with a maximum depth of 52 feet. By paying a visit to the lake, you are likely to spot some combination of waterfowl, frogs, and fish. Use of watercraft including motorboats, paddle boards, jet skis, and kayaks is welcome here. The Reeds Lake Loop is family-friendly, dog-friendly, and handicap-accessible.
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Warren Townsend Park is a great, small park in Cannonsburg. It has several trails, a picnic area and a stone shelter built in 1926, the first structure built in a Kent County Park.
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Although the name gaslight has a negative connotation, this is not really the case here. Never fear: Gaslight Village is the vibrant heart of East Grand Rapids! This lively area of shops, restaurants and services meets all your needs.
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Reeds Lake is a freshwater lake covering 265 acres, with a maximum depth of 52 feet. By paying a visit to the lake, you are likely to spot some combination of waterfowl, frogs, and fish. Use of watercraft including motorboats, paddle boards, jet skis, and kayaks is welcome here. The Reeds Lake Loop is family-friendly, dog-friendly, and handicap-accessible.
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Pickerel Lake covers 80 acres and is a popular choice among fishermen and wildlife enthusiasts. There is a boardwalk crossing a portion of the lake, hiking and walking trails available for use during warmer months, and cross country ski trails for winter recreation.
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Nice shops and a great place to grab a bite or pick up a snack to eat on the ride. Great view of the lake.
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Although the name gaslight has a negative connotation, this is not really the case here. Never fear: Gaslight Village is the vibrant heart of East Grand Rapids! This lively area of shops, restaurants and services meets all your needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main lakes and water bodies near Forest Hills, New York?
The primary water bodies near Forest Hills are within Flushing Meadows-Corona Park and the adjacent Forest Park. These include Meadow Lake and Willow Lake in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, and various ponds, such as the PFC Laurence Strack Memorial Pond, within Forest Park.
What activities can I do at Meadow Lake?
Meadow Lake, the largest freshwater lake in New York City, offers opportunities for boating and enjoying the scenic park surroundings. It's a significant natural escape within the urban environment.
Is Willow Lake suitable for wildlife observation?
Yes, Willow Lake is recognized as a wildlife sanctuary and is an ideal place for birdwatching and connecting with nature. Visitors can enjoy hiking and observing wildlife in its serene natural setting.
Are there hiking trails around Willow Lake?
Yes, a main trail, the Pat Dolan Trail, runs through the Willow Lake preserve, offering visitors a peaceful retreat for hiking and nature observation.
What is the history behind Meadow Lake and Willow Lake?
Both Meadow Lake and Willow Lake are man-made. They were carved out of salt marshes during the extensive public works project for the 1939 World's Fair, transforming the landscape of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park.
Are there any hidden gems or peaceful spots near Forest Hills?
Yes, within Forest Park, you can find tranquil spots like the PFC Laurence Strack Memorial Pond. This peaceful pond is naturally flooded due to unique 'knob and kettle' terrain, a result of glacial movement, offering a quiet place for nature observation.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes and ponds near Forest Hills offer diverse natural features. Meadow Lake and Willow Lake are surrounded by park landscapes, while Willow Lake specifically is a wildlife sanctuary. Forest Park's ponds are set within woodlands, showcasing glacial geological history.
Are the lakes near Forest Hills family-friendly?
The parks surrounding Meadow Lake and Willow Lake, as well as Forest Park, offer extensive green spaces and recreational opportunities suitable for families. While specific family activities vary, the natural settings are generally welcoming for all ages.
What is the best time to visit the lakes near Forest Hills?
The lakes and parks are enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for hiking and wildlife viewing, while summer is ideal for boating on Meadow Lake. Winter can provide unique opportunities for quiet walks, though specific activities may be limited.
How can I access Flushing Meadows-Corona Park and its lakes?
Flushing Meadows-Corona Park is accessible via public transportation and has parking available. For detailed information on transportation and parking, it's advisable to check the official New York City Parks Department website or resources like Wikipedia's page on Flushing Meadows-Corona Park.
What outdoor activities are available near the lakes in Forest Hills?
Beyond the lakes themselves, the broader area offers various outdoor activities. For instance, you can find numerous routes for easy hikes and running trails. Explore options like the easy hikes around Forest Hills or the running trails around Forest Hills for more detailed information.
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