20 Attractions to Explore Near Jordan Lake

Jordan Lake, is a beautiful natural sight. Spanning 300 acres with a maximum depth of 38 feet, this all-sports lake is truly majestic. Every year anglers come to fish for the lake's largemouth bass, bluegill, yellow perch and black crappie. The lake also makes for a great spot for swimming or boating in the summertime. Whether you're out fishing, picnicking with friends or just appreciating the natural beauty of the area, Jordan Lake has something to offer everyone.

I-96 Speedway is a bucket list destination for ambitious racers and fans alike. Located in Lake Odessa, the ¼ mile banked clay oval provides a thrilling and spectator friendly racing environment. Offering five weekly divisions, this lightning quick track produces action packed and competitive racing that spectators can view from multiple angles. In addition to the driving excitement, I-96 Speedway also features a great family atmosphere with affordable prices and concessions.

Morrison Lake is a popular destination for vacationers and nature lovers alike. It has crystal clear water and is surrounded by stunning forests, making it a tranquil oasis off the beaten path. Local fish species include yellow perch, bluegill, largemouth bass and northern pike. There is also an abundance of wildlife grazing around the lake, including beavers and other small mammals. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, fishing, camping and hiking opportunities throughout the area.

Historic Charlton Park, is an outdoor living history museum that provides visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the past. Established in 1973, this park displays an extensive collection of buildings that reflect nineteenth century rural and farming lifestyles. Highlights of the complex include an old country school house, two grist and saw mills, a blacksmith shop, ice house, and post office.

Ionia State Recreation Area is a stunning open-air park located in Ingham County. This sprawling location offers countless opportunities for outdoor recreation, with picturesque hiking trails, plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities, family-friendly beaches and more. For camping enthusiasts, the well kept grounds feature dozens of camp sites, pavilions for large groups, and even primitive tent camping along the river. Fishing is also popular on site or nearby Frog Pond's Lake Saint Helen.

Scheid Park is a wonderful park with many attractions to explore. Among its highlights are several covered pavilions for picnics and gatherings, two boat launches for kayaking and fishing, grills for barbecues, benches and trails for a leisurely stroll or serious hike, and two softball fields for those looking for some outdoor fun. There is even an area specially designated as a dog park. Overall a great spot to enjoy the outdoors and to communicate with nature.

The Portland Riverwalk is an incredible place to take a walk and get close to nature. From the boardwalk lined path, visitors can observe plenty of scenery along the way including views of the river, multiple species of birds, and native foliage. Visitors who want more of a challenge can access the mountain biking trails that wind through canopies of trees located off the main path. Don’t forget to take some time to sit on one of the many benches available along.

The John C. Blanchard House was built in 1864 by one of the first settlers of the area, and it also served as a home to many generations of the same family line. This particular Greek Revival living space stands out from others that were built around this time due to its beautiful symmetry and architectural details, such as its gable with bells and location near Red Cedar River. While the house has been restored over the years, much of its original features still remain intact.

The North Country Trailhead offers stunning views of the countryside and an excellent opportunity to explore. Miles of paths stretch through a forest of native trees, including maples and oaks, with bits of wetland interspersed here and there inviting hikers to stop and observe. Wildflowers bloom in the spring, while colorful fall foliage appears come autumn. Wildlife is abundant. Camping is allowed on site and take in more of the natural beauty this area has to offer.

Pierce Cedar Creek Institute is a nature preserve and environmental education center that covers nearly 700 acres of land. The Institute includes several different types of habitat, including woods, wetlands, meadows, and prairies. There are also seven miles of trails for hiking, cycling, and cross-country skiing. In addition to its natural features, the Institute also has an education center with classrooms and a library, as well as a working organic farm.

Fitzgerald Park is a prime destination for outdoor entertainment. With 300 acres of stunning land boasting tranquil hiking trails and idyllic camping spots, this park offers something to everyone. It features scenic terrains of lush greenery, multiple picnic areas with grills, and breathtaking views of the surrounding natural landscape. Visitors can also enjoy half-mile long paths for horseback riding and a 27-hole disc golf course for those who want something more rigorous.

Fallasburg Park located at the base of the picturesque rolling hills of Kent County, this beautiful park features a variety of activities for all ages. From camping to picnicking or just exploring, you’re sure to find something to keep everyone busy. The scenic 8-acre pond is a peaceful spot where you can canoe and fish while taking in the scenery. There are also more than 3 miles of walking trails that lead through old growth oak forests, wetlands and meadows alongside the river.

Whites Bridge was built in 1927, and has been a part of the county ever since. This bridge has two highway crossings that are locally known and is listed under the National Register of Historic Places. It once connected to Bippley Avenue where locals used to go for Sunday drives to watch the sunset. Today, it stands as a reminder of the local beloved history and traditions that were once typical of the area.

The Courthouse Square Museum in Eaton County, Michigan is a great destination for anyone who loves to learn more about the region's history and culture. From the earliest Native Americans who lived in the area to more recent developments, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into what life was like during different periods of time. There are interactive exhibits, interesting artifacts and engaging interactive activities to help bring these stories to life.

Deep Lake, is an ideal getaway for nature-lovers. It's one of the clearest and cleanest lakes in its area, surrounded by an abundance of tall trees and lush vegetation. The township near Deep Lake offers plenty of activities such as tennis, golf, walking trails and more. Fishing is a popular activity here with easy access to pike, bass and bluegill. Annual festivals and events draw tourists from far away to enjoy the beautiful city and all it has to offer.

Hall Lake, is the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway. This all-sports lake boasts crystal blue waters, surrounding green forests and almost 2 miles of shoreline. It's a great spot for fishing, as well as swimming and boating. Hall Lake is one of the few lakes in Barry County to be privately owned - meaning it's never too crowded and there are plenty of quiet spots to catch some rays or take in the breathtaking views. There are two launching ramps if you bring your own boat or watercraft.

Its crystal-clear waters draw fishermen and swimmers alike, while its wooded banks provide a perfect escape for walking trails and lush recreation. This beautiful body of water spans nine miles long and its maximum depth is 9 feet. Boaters can access the lake from the Stone Mill Creek public launch, while summer visitors can sunbathe on Coconut Beach. For the outdoor enthusiast, there are plenty of diverse wildlife to observe, such as beaver and deer.

Cobb Lake is a beautiful and peaceful place situated within 935 acres of green acreage that includes gently rolling hills and sandy shoreline. The area around the lake is used for both leisurely activities such as hunting and fishing as well as sporting events like boating and powerboat racing. Visitors to Cobb Lake can enjoy a variety of recreational opportunities including canoeing, sailing, water-skiing, tubing, kayaking, fishing and camping.

Ada Covered Bridge, is a piece of history that has withstood the test of time. Dating back to 1867, it is the only remaining covered bridge in Michigan and one of three in all of the Great Lakes region. Sited on a scenic 115-acre park near an expansive evergreen forest, Ada Covered Bridge can be described as an architectural marvel that seamlessly unites old world charm with modern convenience.

Seidman Park is a scenic spot that families have been enjoying for more than 50 years. Covering an area of 97-acres, Seidman Park is home to plenty of bikeways and picnic areas, as well as jogging trails and several shelters. For those who want to spend some time outdoors while still being close to nature, the park boasts a pond where one can catch panfish, largemouth bass, and even trout with a valid permit.