Lakes around Ingham offer diverse natural features and recreational opportunities within Ingham County, Michigan. The region is characterized by its numerous inland lakes, with Lake Lansing being the most prominent and extensively developed for public use. This area provides a mix of natural landscapes, including woodlands, marshlands, and open water, supporting various outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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It's a vast, scenic estate to cycle through, mostly on compacted, dusty gravel, but there are chunkier bits in some parts. Entering through Horringer and exiting via Chevington worked for me.
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Lots of different types of terrain to learn, pay attention to some of the forest turns not all are obvious, few lift your bike over log sections, one built for short people section but fun, watch your head;-). Beware of a couple of very bust main road crossings!!! This time of year give yourself time, lights and toes and fingers need warmth. Shout out to 'Wolf Way' for the route;-)
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As part of the sprawling Ickworth Estate, Ickworth Park showcases quaint lakes, serene woodland and historic landmarks.
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This lake will be the first one you see upon arriving in the area near the visitor center. It's the largest in terms of surface area, and numerous water activities such as sailing or canoeing take place on it. The trail that runs along the side of the lake offers excellent views at some points.
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In addition to being able to grab something to eat or drink, at this center, you can get information to make the most of your visit to Lackford Lakes. They also have a shop where you can even rent binoculars if you've left yours at home. Remember that dogs are only allowed on the red trail and must be on a leash; guide dogs are the only ones allowed on the other trails and in the center. More information: https://www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/lackford-lakes-visitor-centre
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Not 100% sure the cut through from Ampton to Gt Livermere is a legit cycle trail. I was chased off by a very grumpy gamekeeper who told me it was a footpath not a bridleway.
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Ingham County's lakes offer diverse natural settings. For instance, Gravel Track by Livermere Lake features varied terrain and forest sections. Lake Lansing Park North, adjacent to Lake Lansing, provides over 530 acres with multiple hiking trails and boardwalks through woodlands, marshlands, and pine forests. You can also find a 5-mile trail looping Lake Lansing's shores.
Yes, several lakes in the Ingham area are great for families. West Stow Country Park Lake is within a 125-acre park offering nature trails and woodland walks. Ickworth Park also features quaint lakes and serene woodland, suitable for family outings. Lake Lansing itself is highly family-friendly, with Lake Lansing Park South offering a swimming beach, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Lake Lansing, the most prominent lake in the county, offers a wide range of water activities including swimming, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. There are also two sailing clubs on the lake. Fishing is popular, with the lake stocked with species like largemouth bass, northern pike, and crappie.
Beyond the lakes themselves, the Ingham area provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find various hiking trails around Ingham, including routes like the 'West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village – View of the Lake loop'. For cyclists, there are cycling routes around Ingham, such as the 'Fire Road – King's Forest Gravel Path loop'. Runners can also explore running trails like the 'Yellow Walk'.
Yes, Ickworth Park is a vast, scenic estate that includes historic landmarks alongside its lakes and woodlands. Additionally, near West Stow Country Park Lake, you can explore the Anglo Saxon village, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
For walking, Lake Lansing is an excellent choice, featuring a 5-mile trail looping its shores. Lake Lansing Park North also offers 10 miles of hiking trails through diverse natural environments. West Stow Country Park Lake also has nature trails and woodland walks within its 125 acres.
Lake Lansing is well-equipped with amenities. Lake Lansing Park South features a swimming beach, bathhouse, boat rental, fishing dock, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and picnic grounds. Lake Lansing Park North offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and a disc golf course. There's also a public boat launch with two ramps and a picnic area.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity, especially at Lake Lansing. The lake is regularly stocked and home to various fish species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, carp, crappie, bluegill, and perch. The Michigan DNR provides information on fishing opportunities in many of the county's inland lakes.
Near Lackford Lakes Visitor Centre, you can find a cafe where you can grab something to eat or drink. Lake Lansing also has amenities nearby, particularly within Lake Lansing Park South, which hosts events and has facilities that often include food vendors during the summer season.
The lakes around Ingham are enjoyable year-round. Summer is ideal for water activities like swimming and boating. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful foliage in the fall. In winter, trails at Lake Lansing Park North are used for cross-country skiing, providing opportunities for cold-weather recreation.
Yes, Lake Lansing is a popular spot for sailing, hosting two sailing clubs. The lake's size and conditions make it suitable for this activity. You can also find Grafham Water Sailing Lake, which is known for various water activities including sailing.
Lake Lansing Park North is unique for its extensive natural recreational experience. Covering over 530 acres, it features multiple hiking trails and boardwalks that traverse woodlands, marshlands, and pine forests. It's an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts, birdwatching, and in winter, its trails are used for cross-country skiing.


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