Best lakes around Greendale offers a variety of aquatic features within a larger park setting. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities and natural exploration. This region is characterized by its urban parks that integrate natural landscapes with recreational facilities. Visitors can find diverse environments, from serene lake shores to extensive trail networks.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Greendale.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Forest Park is a huge recreational park in the heart of St. Louis. The park is perfect for relaxing, biking, golfing, and exploring the various cultural offerings at the Museum of History, St. Louis Zoo, Art Museum, or Planetarium. It's also easily accessible by metro.
0
0
The bike lanes here are wonderful. The connectors could be improved though!
0
0
Forest Park in St. Louis is a sprawling urban park spanning 1,371 acres, making it one of the largest urban parks in the United States. It offers a wide range of attractions, including the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Saint Louis Zoo, and the Missouri History Museum.
1
0
The Emerson Grand Basin in St. Louis is a stunning water feature located in Forest Park. Spanning over 7 acres, it serves as both a picturesque gathering place and a recreational area for visitors to enjoy.
0
0
Forest Park, with 1,326 acres, is considered one of the premier urban public parks in the US. It features beautiful landscapes sprinkled with forests, ecosystems, nature reserves, and lakes and streams. It als contains cultural institutions including the St Louis Zoo, Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, Science Center, and Muny Opera.
0
0
Emerson Gran Basin is a manmade lake in front of the Saint Louis Art Museum. The architecture of the museum, the square, and the lake with water fountains make it a beautiful romantic scenery. Forest Park has a nice trail network and is a great place for a run.
0
0
Jefferson Lake is situated in the very east of the huge Forest Park in St. Louis. There are multiple picnic areas around the lake to enjoy a great natural setting in the city. The lake is a famous spot for fishing and the paths leading around the lake (and the rest of the park), are perfect for jogging.
0
0
In addition to sports, the huge park also offers cultural highlights such as museums, the St. Louis Zoo and bars and cafes. There is the possibility to sit and enjoy the weather and the silence, or you can try pedal boats, canoes or stand-up paddling. The north end is home to the Missouri National Museum and the south-west end is home to the Missouri Art Museum. In summer there are various festivals such as the St. Louis Blues Festival or the African Art festival. An oasis in the heart of industrial St. Louis.
1
1
Greendale is home to Scout Lake, a 64-acre natural inland lake within the village. Nearby, you'll find Quarry Lake, which borders the Overlook Lakes community, and Mallard Lake, located within Whitnall Park on Greendale's western boundary.
Yes, Scout Lake features a paved path forming a half-mile loop, suitable for easy walking. Whitnall Park, which includes Mallard Lake, also offers numerous hiking trails. For more options, you can explore easy hikes around Greendale, including routes like the Ruth Park Nature Trail.
Scout Lake is a popular spot for birdwatching, offering a tranquil natural haven. The surrounding areas, including Whitnall Park and the Root River near Quarry Lake, provide diverse habitats where you might observe various local wildlife.
Absolutely. Scout Lake Park includes a tot lot/play area and reservable picnic areas, making it ideal for families. Whitnall Park, with Mallard Lake, offers extensive amenities including the Wehr Nature Center and Boerner Botanical Gardens, providing educational and recreational opportunities for all ages.
Scout Lake features a fishing pier and is a popular spot for fishing. When weather conditions permit, challenging ice-fishing opportunities are also available, provided the ice is at least 6 inches thick. Jefferson Lake, though further afield, is stocked with bass, catfish, crappie, and carp, and allows fishing with a valid MO fishing license.
Yes, dogs are permitted on-leash at Scout Lake, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy a walk. Many of the trails in Whitnall Park are also dog-friendly, but always check local regulations for specific areas.
The paved path around Scout Lake is generally cleared in winter, making it accessible for walking. When conditions allow, ice-fishing is also a popular winter activity on Scout Lake. For more detailed information on winter trail conditions, it's always best to check local park advisories.
Beyond walking, you can enjoy birdwatching at Scout Lake. Whitnall Park, near Mallard Lake, offers an 18-hole golf course, extensive hiking, biking, and cross-country ski trails. You can also find various road cycling routes around Greendale.
While specific public transport routes directly to each lake may vary, the presence of county parks and parkways within walking distance of areas like Quarry Lake suggests some accessibility. For detailed public transport information, it's recommended to consult local transit schedules.
Visitors appreciate the serene natural haven offered by Scout Lake, ideal for nature lovers and families. The broader amenities of Whitnall Park, including its botanical gardens and extensive trails, also provide a wide range of activities and scenic views, making the area attractive for outdoor enthusiasts.
While the lakes themselves are primarily natural features, Whitnall Park, which borders Greendale and features Mallard Lake, is home to the Boerner Botanical Gardens and the Wehr Nature Center, offering educational and cultural experiences related to nature and horticulture.
Scout Lake Park offers reservable picnic areas, perfect for enjoying a meal outdoors. Jefferson Lake, though located in Forest Park, also provides multiple picnic areas for a natural setting, allowing visitors to relax by the water.


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