Lake as mikveh

If one lives in an area without a mikveh, may a natural lake that has got a connection to a river be used for immersion ?
What are the requirements for a natural body of water for being used as a mikveh ?
Is it permitted for reasons of modesty, and also in order to avoid being harassed, to immerse in the very early morning instead of the regular time ?
Thanks

Dear questioner,

Thank you for your question.

A natural lake that is fed by river water and springs can be used for immersion. Please see Natural Spring as Mikveh for further information about the use of natural bodies of water and concerns that must be taken into account (e.g., safety, modesty, and adequate lighting to assure that immersion is complete). As long as the immersion is before sunrise, this is still considered immersing at night.

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