Top 7 Lakes around Ypsilanti
Best lakes around Ypsilanti are primarily impoundments of the Huron River, offering various recreational opportunities. The region features several notable bodies of water, including Ford Lake and Belleville Lake, which are significant for outdoor activities. These lakes provide diverse environments for visitors, from expansive waterways to smaller, more secluded ponds. The area's natural landscape supports a range of activities, making it a destination for those seeking aquatic and park experiences.
Best lakes around Ypsilanti
- The most popular lakes is Gallup…
Last updated: April 28, 2026
Gallup Youth Fishing Pond
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Gallup Park
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Black Pond Woods Nature Area
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Olson Park Pond
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Rolling Hills Park
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Tips from the Community
Rolling Hills Park has so much to do in its expansive 439 acres of coverage. There is a water park, fishing pond, picnic area, a few different restrooms, oak groves, an 18 holes disk golf course, and a network of paved and unpaved trails. In the winter, the trails become a cross-country ski haven.
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Great park in the middle of the B2B section of Ann Arbor. Playgrounds and pavilions for picnics are plentiful. Large fields for kites and volleyball. Everything is visible from the B2B. Large parking lot nearby, pending the construction in the area.
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Nice pond in the middle of gallup park by the B2B. Fishing is very popular here in the summer.
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Three Ann Arbor parks have been designated as wildlife sanctuary areas with limits placed on permitted activities there by City Council. The designations were given to Gallup Park, across the Huron River from Huron High School, Dolph Park, in the westside Lakewood subdivisión, and Bird Hills Park located in northern Ann Arbor off Newport Road. The wildlife sanctuary designations means no hunting or trapping of animals or waterfowl will be allowed. Also, in all three parks council prohibited group picnicking or any other use by groups of more than 10, except for natural history interpretation, to protect the areas. In Gallup Park, the new regulations designated the small lake there as a "youth fishing pond", meaning only youths and accompanying adults can fish here. In Dolph Park, family picnicking has been restricted to designated picnic areas. Also, use of the First and Second Sister Lakes has been restricted to fishing and motorless boating.
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This is a great trail compared to everything else in the area! It's hidden, it's actually BEHIND the science center. There are four trails to choose from. Black, Red, Yellow, and Green. Bring good shoes because you'll encounter a lot of inclines and a few rabbit trails ahead on all four trails. I suggest the black trail. It takes you right to the black pond. The pond is in a small valley, away from roads, and is very quiet. There's a small pontoon bridge over it. Whether you walk to explore the area or jog to build up your stamina, it's a great trail either way!
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A fun playground park for kids, designed with some artistic and creative flair. Fun to look at when you can't play on it. Ample parking nearby and not far from some shelters and BBQ stands. TIP: Read the water's edge warnings about skin irritation when touching the frothy foam that may float on it and keep an eye on your children.
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Nestled within Gallup Park in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the Gallup Youth Fishing Pond offers a serene spot for young anglers. Exclusively designated for youth fishing, accompanied by adults, it provides a unique experience. With its tranquil ambiance and special regulations, it's a cool destination for family outings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes for outdoor activities near Ypsilanti?
For a wide range of outdoor activities, Ford Lake is an excellent choice. It's a hub for boating, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, with various parks like Ford Lake Park and North Bay Park offering amenities such as boat launches, trails, and sports facilities. Belleville Lake is another popular spot for water sports, including boating, personal watercraft, and fishing, with several lakefront parks like Horizon Park.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Ypsilanti?
Yes, several lakes and parks are ideal for families. Gallup Park, located along the Huron River, offers canoe, kayak, and paddleboat rentals, three playgrounds (including an accessible one), and picnic spots. Within Gallup Park, the Gallup Youth Fishing Pond is exclusively designated for youth fishing with accompanying adults. Rolling Hills Park also features a water park, a fishing pond, and picnic areas, making it great for families.
Where can I find hiking or walking trails near the lakes?
Many lakes offer excellent trail systems. North Bay Park on Ford Lake has a boardwalk and trail system winding through woods and wetlands. Gallup Park features over 3 miles of trails for biking and walking that connect to the Border-to-Border Trail. For more options, you can explore easy hikes around the area, such as the North Bay Park Loop or Rolling Hills Perimeter Loop, by checking out the Easy Hikes around Ypsilanti guide.
What kind of fish can I expect to catch in the lakes near Ypsilanti?
The lakes around Ypsilanti are well-stocked with diverse fish species. Ford Lake is known for bluegills, walleyes, smallmouth and largemouth bass, catfish, white bass, perch, pike, bullhead, and crappies. Belleville Lake also supports a rich fishery including crappie, bluegill, various catfish, largemouth and smallmouth bass, muskellunge, northern pike, walleye, and yellow perch, with many species regularly stocked by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Are there opportunities for boating and kayaking?
Absolutely. Both Ford Lake and Belleville Lake are popular for boating, canoeing, and kayaking. Ford Lake Park provides a public boat and canoe launch. Belleville Lake is frequently used for personal watercraft, jet skis, and pontoons, especially on summer weekends. Gallup Park also offers canoe, kayak, and paddleboat rentals.
What are the best lakes for scenic views and nature observation?
Ford Lake offers tranquil beauty, lush greenery, and abundant wildlife, with kayaking at sunset being particularly recommended for memorable views. North Bay Park on Ford Lake features an observation tower and trails through wetlands. Black Pond Woods Nature Area provides a serene experience with its woodlands, wetlands, and a small, dark pond, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Are there any lakes with accessible features for visitors?
Yes, accessibility is a consideration at some locations. Horizon Park on Belleville Lake features a lakeside boardwalk and an ADA-accessible canoe and kayak launch. Gallup Park includes an accessible playground and scenic walkways that are suitable for various visitors.
Can I go ice fishing on any of the lakes in winter?
Yes, Belleville Lake is known for reliably freezing in winter, making ice fishing for panfish and perch a feasible and popular activity.
What kind of cycling routes are available near the lakes?
The area around Ypsilanti offers various cycling routes. For example, the Ford Lake Wetlands Boardwalk loop is an easy ride. You can find more cycling options, including routes like the Parker Mill County Park – South Pond loop, in the Cycling around Ypsilanti guide.
Are there parks with picnic areas and playgrounds near the lakes?
Many parks surrounding the lakes offer these amenities. Ford Lake Park, Loonfeather Point Park, and Lakeside Park on Ford Lake all provide picnic areas and playgrounds. Gallup Park and Olson Park Pond also feature playgrounds and picnic spots, making them great for a day out.
What is the best time to visit the lakes near Ypsilanti?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer are ideal for boating, kayaking, and fishing, with parks hosting events like the John E. Lawrence Summer Jazz Festival at Ford Lake Park. Fall offers beautiful foliage for scenic walks, especially in areas like Black Pond Woods Nature Area. Winter allows for ice fishing on lakes like Belleville Lake and cross-country skiing at Rolling Hills Park.
Can I bring my dog to the lake parks?
Many parks around the lakes are dog-friendly, though specific rules may apply. Gallup Park is noted as dog-friendly, offering trails for you and your pet to enjoy. Always check local signage for leash requirements and restricted areas.
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