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Welcome to Island Lake

Island Lake is an all-sports lake in Green Oak Township, Livingston County, just south of Brighton and about 19.8 miles from downtown Fenton. It sits beside Fonda Lake and borders Island Lake Recreation Area. When I checked in October 2026, my site had no Island Lake listings, so the button above shows all Green Oak Township waterfront homes, and I'm happy to set up a saved search just for Island Lake.

Lake Overview

• Location: Green Oak Township, Livingston County; the state recreation area covers the lake's south and east sides (Island and Fonda Lake Association).
• Size: about 130 acres in DNR data (Michigan's Named Inland Lakes, DNR data via MLSA); EGLE MiEnviro inland lakes mapping shows about 130 acres.
• Boating: I didn't find a Michigan DNR local watercraft control naming Island Lake (Michigan DNR Livingston County watercraft controls).
• Public access: I didn't find a DNR launch on the lake; the association has a keyed launch and a residents-only beach (Island and Fonda Lake Association).
• Shoreline: Microsoft building-footprint map data shows about 155 buildings near the shore.

Living on Island Lake

Island Lake has a classic cottage-colony feel. A local agent's Island Lake page says many homes date from the 1920s to the 1950s, many lots have about 35 to 40 feet of frontage, and some homes sit across the road from the water. Trails and parkland are right next door (Island and Fonda Lake Association).

Green Oak Township & Schools

Island Lake is in Green Oak Township, with Brighton mailing addresses, and the association notes Brighton Area Schools bus stops throughout the neighborhood (Island and Fonda Lake Association). A local agent's Island Lake page lists sanitary sewer and wells. I confirm the district and utilities for every address.

Tips for Buyers

• Understand riparian rights. Michigan waterfront ("riparian") owners generally have rights to dock and reach the water (EGLE inland lakes guide). "Lake privileges" or a shared lot is different, so read the deed and any easement.
• Know the local rules. I'll check Green Oak Township zoning, association rules, and any dock or shoreline rules for the specific parcel.
• Seawalls and permanent docks generally need an EGLE permit, while seasonal docks usually don't (EGLE dock handout). Ask for permit records.
• Confirm sewer or septic and well, and schedule inspections for any private system.
• Check the address on FEMA's Flood Map Service Center and get a flood insurance quote early.
• The Island and Fonda Lake Association collects annual dues each July and issues boat launch keys to members. I didn't find a lake special assessment for Island Lake, so I'll confirm dues and any assessments in writing.
• Taxable value generally "uncaps" after a sale (MCL 211.27a), so don't budget off the seller's tax bill.
• Ask whether a home has direct frontage or sits across the road with lake privileges.

Tips for Sellers

• Lead with the all-sports water and the state park next door.
• Say "Island Lake, Green Oak Township" so buyers don't confuse it with the state recreation area.
• Have sewer, well, dock and association records ready.

FAQ

Is Island Lake the same as Island Lake Recreation Area?

No. The Island Lake Recreation Area borders the lake's south and east sides (Island and Fonda Lake Association).

Is Island Lake all-sports?

Yes, according to the Island and Fonda Lake Association.

How big is Island Lake?

About 130 acres in DNR data (Michigan's Named Inland Lakes, DNR data via MLSA).

Let's Talk Lake Life

Love the idea of lake life next to a state park? I'd love to help you watch Island Lake. Give me a call at (810) 962-4908.