Top 7 Lakes around Black Point-Green Point
Best lakes around Black Point-Green Point are located in the surrounding Marin County, as Black Point-Green Point itself is a coastal community characterized by marshes and sandy shores. This tranquil area, nestled between Novato and the Petaluma River, offers access to various natural landscapes. The region provides opportunities for outdoor activities, with notable lakes like Stafford Lake offering recreational facilities and natural beauty.
Best lakes around Black Point-Green Point
- The most popular lakes is Stafford Lake Park, a lake that features well-maintained picnic areas, a mountain bike parcours, and shore fishing opportunities. It is known for its recreational activities and natural setting.
- Another must-see spot is Novato Lake Dam Bike Trail, a cycle way. Visitors can expect a dedicated, paved bike trail along the north shore and dam of the lake, protected from the road.
- Visitors also love Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve, a forest spanning over 1,600 acres with extensive trails. It is special for its diverse wildlife and the seasonal Hidden Lake.
- Black Point-Green Point is known for recreational lakes, reservoirs, and seasonal ponds. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from those with extensive facilities to more natural, secluded spots.
- The lakes around Black Point-Green Point are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 10 upvotes and 6 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
Stafford Lake Park
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Novato Lake Dam Bike Trail
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Stafford Lake County Park — Novato
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Stafford Lake Park - Picnic area
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Disc golf course, mountain bike park, picnic areas with BBQs, adventure playground, hammock village, fishing from the shore for catfish, bluegill, and bass. Anglers over age 16 need a fishing license, Hiking, Terwilliger Nature Trail, viewpoints for waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds.
marincountyparks.org/parkspreserves/parks/stafford-lake-park
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Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve
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Tips from the Community
Stafford Lake County Park is a 139-acre park with a lake, hiking trails, a bike park, a and disc golf course.
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Spanning 1,627 acres, this park features extensive trails for hiking, running, and biking. The main attractions include Mount Burdell, standing at 1,558 feet above sea level, and Hidden Lake, a seasonal pond. Throughout the park, there are ample opportunities to encounter wildlife, including frogs, salamanders, cattle, and deer.
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Dedicated securely separate paved bike trail along the north shore and dam of the lake, protected from the road by a wide steel railing.
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Pleasant lake with very attentive staff, well maintained picnic areas as well as hammock hangouts, restrooms, a mountain bike parcours, lawns, BBQ grills and shade/rain shelters. The lake shore is shallow and can be muddy depending on the drought/water level.
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139-acre Stafford Lake Park is a great place for group picnics, outdoor games, shore fishing, or a sunset stroll, three miles west of downtown Novato. Disc golf course, mountain bike park, picnic areas with BBQs, adventure playground, hammock village, fishing from the shore for catfish, bluegill, and bass. Anglers over age 16 need a fishing license, Hiking, Terwilliger Nature Trail, viewpoints for waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds. https://www.marincountyparks.org/parkspreserves/parks/stafford-lake-park
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Stafford Lake County Park is a 139-acre park with a lake, hiking trails, a mountain bike park, a and disc golf course. The large shallow lake has an island, picnic areas with BBQ grills, and restrooms.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes for recreation near Black Point-Green Point?
The most popular lake for recreation is Stafford Lake Park, located just west of Novato. It offers well-maintained picnic areas, barbecue facilities, a children's play structure, and an 18-hole disc golf course. It's a great spot for outdoor games and leisurely strolls.
Are there any lakes suitable for cycling or mountain biking?
Yes, Stafford Lake Park is home to a dedicated mountain bike park. Additionally, the Novato Lake Dam Bike Trail provides a securely separated paved bike path along the north shore and dam of the lake, ideal for cycling.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
You can observe a variety of wildlife. At Stafford Lake Park, the Terwilliger Nature Trail offers opportunities to spot waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds. Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve, with its seasonal Hidden Lake, is known for frogs, salamanders, cattle, and deer. Scottsdale Pond Park is also a good spot for birdwatching, including pelicans.
Are the lakes around Black Point-Green Point family-friendly?
Absolutely. Stafford Lake Park is highly recommended for families, featuring picnic areas, a children's play structure, and open lawns for games. Novato Lake Dam Bike Trail is also family-friendly for cycling, and Scottsdale Pond Park offers a small, pleasant area with a pond and trails suitable for all ages.
Can I go swimming in the lakes near Black Point-Green Point?
Swimming, wading, bathing, and boating are generally not permitted in Stafford Lake, as it serves as a North Marin Water District reservoir. Information on swimming in other local lakes is limited, so it's best to assume it's not allowed unless explicitly stated otherwise by park authorities.
What are the best times of year to visit the lakes?
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but spring is particularly picturesque with rolling green hills. Stafford Lake Park is also one of the few places in the Bay Area known for its beautiful fall foliage, making autumn another excellent time to visit.
Are there opportunities for fishing at these lakes?
Yes, anglers can enjoy shore fishing at Stafford Lake Park for catfish, bluegill, and bass. A valid fishing license is required for individuals over 16. Scottsdale Pond Park also has a fishing beach.
Are there hiking or walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, there are several options. Stafford Lake Park features the Terwilliger Nature Trail. Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve offers extensive trails for hiking and running, including paths around its seasonal Hidden Lake. For more hiking options in the wider area, you can explore the Hiking around Black Point-Green Point guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes near Black Point-Green Point?
Visitors particularly appreciate the well-maintained facilities and natural beauty. Many enjoy the picnic areas, mountain bike parcours, and shore fishing opportunities at Stafford Lake Park. The dedicated bike trail at Novato Lake Dam Bike Trail is also highly rated for its safety and scenic views.
Are there any easy walks around the lakes suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, Stafford Lake Park offers leisurely strolls and the Terwilliger Nature Trail, which are generally easy. Scottsdale Pond Park also has small trails along its shore that are suitable for easy walks.
Where can I find information about parking at the lakes?
Parking is generally available at the main entrances of the parks. For instance, Stafford Lake Park has designated parking areas for visitors accessing its facilities and trails. Specific details on parking fees or availability can often be found on the respective park's official website.
Are there any lakes that are considered 'hidden gems' or less-known spots?
While Stafford Lake Park is well-known, Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve contains a seasonal 'Hidden Lake' which offers a more secluded natural experience within its extensive trail system. Scottsdale Pond Park is also a smaller, quieter spot with a charming pond and birdwatching opportunities.
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