Round Lake National Natural Landmark, National Natural Landmark in Onondaga County, United States
Round Lake is a deep body of water in New York featuring exceptionally clear water and roughly 60 acres of old-growth forest along its shoreline. The woodland consists primarily of tuliptrees and sugar maples that create a dense canopy around the perimeter.
The area remained protected from logging in the 1800s after the Collin family settled there in 1817 and actively preserved the forest. This stewardship allowed the landscape to maintain its original character across generations.
Scientists conduct sediment studies at Round Lake to analyze historical climate changes and ecological transformations recorded in layers spanning thousands of years.
Access to the lake comes through Green Lakes State Park, which provides nature trails, educational programs, and opportunities for bird observation and hiking. The facility offers multiple entry points and parking areas, making exploration straightforward for different visitors.
Water in the lake does not mix like most lakes do; the bottom remains separate from the surface, creating two distinct zones. This feature allows researchers to examine environmental changes spanning thousands of years through sediment layers.
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