Stony Lake Park in Oxford, Michigan, the Best Beach Around
Stony Lake Park is an Oxford Township park that is a hidden gem full of surprises. It is free to the public and open year-round from dawn to dusk. The best and most prominent aspect of this park is the beach!
Where is Stony Lake Park?
Stony Lake Township Park is located just north of Oxford on Southbound M24. If you are heading northbound on M24, drive just north of the entrance to do a turnaround and head back to the driveway from the southbound lanes.
About Stony Lake Park
When you head into the park from M24, the first thing that strikes you is the unexpectedly spacious parking area. The picnic area of the park is higher up than the beach. From the entrance, there is no indication of this park’s size. The way it emerges from the trees as you pull in is almost magical. Tall mature trees keep this park cool and shaded during the hot summer days, with an open understory that leaves plenty of room for picnics, games, and gatherings.
Things to do at Stony Lake Park
Picnic
Picnic tables and permanent charcoal grills throughout the park are available to parkgoers on a first-come, first-served basis. Several surround the play structure, and others along the edge of the hill above the beach have beautiful water views.
Play
Nestled among the tall shade trees is a play structure for the younger crowd.
Rent a Pavilion
Stony Lake Park has three pavilions. The largest pavilion has beautiful views of the lake and 4 large, unique built-in brick charcoal grills. You must rent the pavilion to use it. Visit the township website to rent one. https://oxparkrec.org/stony-lake-township-park/
Boating and Fishing
Stony Lake Park has a boat launch which is limited to 4 boats. Fishing is allowed only from or near the pier, not in the designated swim area.
The Beach
The beach is the highlight of the park for sure. Stony Lake Park has the best beach around. The beach is clean and sandy, and so is the water. There are few powered boats on this small lake, which helps to keep the water and beach clean. To access the beach, you travel down a long flight of steps. The steps are between the bathroom building and the playground. The ramp is close to the entrance of the park. There are no lifeguards at the beach, but the swimming area is clearly roped off for two levels of swimmers. Beach hours are from 9 am to 8 pm.
Paddleboard and Kayak Rentals
Game On Paddleboarding rents Kayaks and Paddleboards from the concrete block building next to the colorful mural on the beach. This business offers lessons and classes, too, including Paddleboard yoga. They are open in the summer, mainly on weekends, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Check out their website for more information: https://www.gameonpaddleboarding.com/
Winter Sports
You can do both ice fishing and ice skating at Stony Lake Park in the cold months of winter. These activities are at your own risk. The park does not test the ice thickness or supervise these activities. Sledding is not allowed.
Enjoy nature
The beach is often empty or has fewer people than expected. Picnic tables on the hill are well-spaced apart for privacy and to spend some quiet time overlooking the water. Behind the boat launch parking spots is a single bench that sits near the water and is out of the way from the regular park traffic, which is ideal for a closer vantage point to the water.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Stony Lake Park prohibits pets, alcohol, controlled substances, snowmobiles, ATVs, and dirt bikes.
- Although ice fishing and ice skating are allowed (at your own risk), sledding is prohibited.
- There are no lifeguards, so swim at your own risk.
- The restroom building is open seasonally
- Access is available in most areas for people with disabilities.
- The boat launch has two parking spots for people with disabilities to access the beach.
Spend a Day at Stony Lake Park
Stony Lake Park is pleasant and relaxing. You could definitely stay for a day here. Come early for some paddleboarding or kayaking to work up an appetite, then grill and eat the lunch you brought along at one of the many picnic tables. Bring a comfy chair and snooze, or read a book in the shade at the top of the park or down by the water at the beach. Go for a refreshing swim and head off for home – or a nice dinner in town. If you forgot something, Meijer is conveniently located just across M24. Afterward, you can visit the Legacy 925 Center for a relaxing beverage, maybe some axe throwing, and some pizza. For even more local ideas in Oxford, check out our Best Things to do in Oxford post. Maybe you worked up an appetite and are looking for a bite to eat, check out the many restaurants in Oxford to choose from. If it’s a hot or iced coffee you crave, you can have your pick from FOUR different coffee shops nearby.