Top 13 Lakes in Guilford County

Guilford County offers excellent fishing opportunities. Lake Higgins is known for some of the best fishing, including a stocked trout pond. Lake Brandt and Oak Hollow Lake are popular for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. You can also find good fishing at Lake Townsend, Hagan-Stone Park, and Gibson Park, which stocks channel catfish and trout annually.

Many lakes in Guilford County are perfect for paddling. Lake Brandt, Lake Higgins, and Oak Hollow Lake all offer rentals seasonally for kayaks and paddleboards. Lake Townsend also has kayaks and rowboats available for rent. Southwest Park provides canoes, kayaks, and jon boats for rent, in addition to a launch for personal crafts.

Yes, several lakes feature extensive trail networks. Lake Brandt has a 10.9-mile loop trail and the nearly six-mile Nat Greene Trail for hikers. Lake Higgins and Oak Hollow Lake also have well-maintained trails. For more options, explore the Hiking in Guilford County guide, which includes routes like the Lake Brandt Loop and Guilford Mackintosh Trail.

Cyclists can enjoy trails like the Wild Turkey Mountain Bike Trail at Lake Brandt and other trails around Oak Hollow Lake. The Cycling in Guilford County guide features routes such as the Atlantic and Yadkin Greenway, which offers great views of the lake as you cross over Horsepen Creek.

Absolutely. Lake Higgins is particularly family-friendly, offering picnic areas, playgrounds, and an accessible fishing pier. Oak Hollow Lake also provides diverse recreational opportunities, including playgrounds and volleyball courts. Greensboro Country Park, featuring Lake Five A, has trails, a playground, and seasonal pedal boat rentals.

Guilford County lakes are great for wildlife observation. Lake Brandt is known for birdwatching, with sightings of bald eagles, wood ducks, and loons. Lake Higgins features beautiful waterfowl, while Oak Hollow Lake is a reliable spot for American Coots, Double-crested Cormorants, Great Blue Herons, and various migratory ducks and geese. The Bog Garden at Benjamin Park also offers opportunities to observe local plants and wildlife.

While specific regulations vary by park, many areas are dog-friendly. For instance, the Fishing Pier at Bur-Mil Park is noted as dog-friendly. It's always best to check individual park rules regarding leashes and specific areas before visiting with your pet.

Yes, Lake Higgins offers accessible parking, restrooms, and an accessible fishing pier, making it a good option for visitors with disabilities. Many parks also feature paved paths and facilities designed for easier access.

Oak Hollow Lake is a hub for aquatic activities, including sailing, and hosts sailboat regattas. Lake Townsend also has a sailing club and offers sailboat rentals, making it another excellent choice for sailing enthusiasts.

Yes, despite some lakes hosting active water sports, many areas offer tranquil escapes. Lake Brandt is praised for its stunning scenery and quiet atmosphere due to the absence of personal docks or large motorboats. Lake Higgins is also appreciated for its peaceful environment, ideal for those seeking a quiet escape.

Yes, Lake Brandt features the Wild Turkey Mountain Bike Trail, a four-mile, bike-only trail. Additionally, the Owl's Roost Trail is another option for mountain biking near the lakes.

Facilities vary by lake but often include marinas with boat rentals, launch ramps for personal watercraft, picnic areas, playgrounds, and restrooms. For example, Lake Higgins Park and Guilford Mackintosh Park & Marina offer a range of amenities.