20 Attractions to Explore Near Dowagiac Woods Nature Sanctuary

Indian Lake, is a popular getaway for locals and out-of-state visitors alike. Surrounded by gorgeous outdoor beauty, the lake provides a wealth of activities for recreational enthusiasts. Fishing is a favorite pastime among visitors thanks to the annual smelt run that attracts anglers from all around each year. For those looking to enjoy a more relaxed visit, Indian Lake offers swimming, beach-going, boating, and water skiing opportunities.

Old Rugged Cross Church is a beautiful and historic place of worship. This charming church was built in the 1800s and it continues to serve the local community with its faith-based services. Inside, visitors can bask in the peaceful atmosphere, rest in the pews, and admire stunning stained glass windows. Attached to the building is a bell that has been there since its original construction, adding to its quaint charm. The church also offers a variety of activities.

Dewey Lake is a shallow impoundment that offers an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities for visitors. Boating, fishing, and swimming are all highly popular activities on the lake due to its size and close proximity to other outdoor attractions in the region. During warmer months the surface of Dewey Lake teems with activity from anglers and sailboats alike. The shoreline is dotted with campgrounds and sandy beaches that are perfect for setting up a picnic.

The Pioneer Log Cabin Museum, is a fascinating look into the area's history. Within the museum, visitors will find one-room log cabins that are more than 200 years old, as well as several artifacts and photographs from the county's past. Additionally, the museum offers several educational programs for those looking to learn more about the county's foundation and pioneer days. After touring the cabins, visitors can explore various public spaces outside the museum.

Riverfront Park set along the banks of the St. Joseph River showcases stunning views of nature and idyllic waterways. Offering splash pads, playgrounds, grills, and pavilions, families can enjoy all the amenities and activities that this beautiful riverside location has to offer. An added bonus—admission is free! Whether you’re looking to have a picnic lunch or spend the day outdoors fishing in peace and quiet, Riverfront Park is sure to make your summer daydreams come true.

Fernwood Botanical Garden, is a stunning natural haven perfect for a day of exploration. Spanning nearly 70 acres, the lush landscape offers plenty of room to roam and take in the breathtaking nature around you. You can traverse though landscaped gardens or morning glory-draped arbors, become mesmerized by an array of seasonal blooms in our Perennial Garden or explore eight different habitats each with their own distinctive flora and fauna.

Diamond Lake, is a quiet hideaway that draws visitors from all around the area. With its sandy beaches and crystal clear water, it is the perfect destination when seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This small lake has a maximum depth of 33 feet, plenty for swimming, fishing, boating and other recreational activities. Wildlife such as ducks, geese and herons enjoy roosting along the shoreline after a hard day of fishing.

Fort St. Joseph was a military installation that existed in Berrien County, Michigan from 1691 to 1781. It was built by French soldiers during the French-Indian War and served as both a trading post and a military fort for many years. The fort saw much conflict throughout its existence, and faced attacks from Pontiac's Rebellion in the 1760s. After the war ended, it eventually went into disrepair and was abandoned in 1781.

The Brandywine Creek Nature Park provides visitors with an opportunity to connect with nature. Located just two miles from the intersection of I-94 and M-51, the park boasts eight acres of wetlands and forest, complete with a creek running through it and abundant wildlife. The park offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking trails, kayaking excursions, bird watching platforms, various educational programming and educational opportunities.

Little Fish Lake, is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Located just outside Dowagiac, the lake offers beautiful crystal clear waters and fantastic opportunities to take in the freshness of nature. There are limits on motorboats, so there’s never any worry about dodging noisy watercraft – making it ideal for quiet fishing or an early morning paddle boats ride. Other activities range from swimming holes to nearby trails perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Madeline Bertrand County Park is a 580-acre park is beautiful year-round and offers a range of recreational activities from kayaking to biking. Visitors can rent kayaks and bicycles, enjoy an invigorating hike along the lakeside trail, or explore the rolling hillsides at their own pace. During winter months, skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing are great opportunities for outdoor fun. Guests can also gather around local campfires for a cozy evening gathering with friends.

Garver Lake, is a stunning freshwater lake surrounded by lush forests of oak and maple. Home to numerous species of fish, the lake's crystal-clear waters invite swimming and fishing enthusiasts alike. The lake is especially popular for its crappie fishery and serves as home to many interesting fish such as northern pike, largemouth bass, bluegill, and pumpkinseed. No motorized boats are allowed on the lake creating a peaceful atmosphere perfect for canoeing or kayaking.

Juno Lake is one of the most picturesque areas to be found in this region. Nestled between deciduous forests and pristine blue waters, it offers a peaceful atmosphere and spectacular views. Sporting activities such as fishing, boating, water skiing and swimming can be enjoyed here. Visitors come to delight in the abundance of wildlife native to the area, in addition to hiking trails that meander through its natural beauty.

Donnell Lake, is a beautiful and serene lake with graceful islands, bays, and winding coves. The lake offers all kinds of recreational activities including fishing, kayaking, boating, swimming and more. The lakeshore has plenty of camping and park options to choose from while the surrounding area has a variety of restaurants, shopping centers and other attractions. During the winter months, snowmobiles are welcome as well as ice fishing.

Nestled in Van Buren County, Michigan lies the serene Shafer Lake, a hidden gem waiting to be explored. The lake is known for its clear waters and calm surroundings, making it a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing enthusiasts. It is also surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with forests and wildlife aplenty. The lake offers a range of outdoor activities, from camping and hiking to kayaking and birdwatching.

Mud Lake Bog Nature Preserve is a unique natural wonder with a vast diversity of wildlife and plant life. Spanning over 250 acres, it is the largest Atlantic white cedar swamp known in the state of Michigan. The preserve’s diverse habitats provide habitat for great blue herons, sandhill cranes, beavers, muskrats and river otters among others. Aside from aquatic mammals, the preserve is also home to several snakes and turtles as well as rare insect species like wood nymph butterflies.

Finch Lake,is a spectacular place. Located in the breathtakingly beautiful countryside at the base of Round Lake Valley, it is surrounded by trees and rolling hills. The lake itself is clear and sparkling; its waters are perfect for swimming, skiing, and sailing. On shore, you can explore nature trails or visit historic sites like the nearby Lost Mound Cave. Anglers can test their skills on its excellent local bass fishing or try to catch some of the largemouth they've heard rumors of.

Nestled in Van Buren County, Michigan lies the serene Christie Lake, a nature lover's paradise. The crystal-clear waters of the lake offer an ideal spot for fishing, swimming, and boating with the family. Surrounded by sprawling forests, the lake provides ample opportunities for hiking and camping amidst nature's beauty. Moreover, the lake is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and loons, making it an exciting spot for birdwatchers.

The Morton House Museum is a fascinating place to visit. It is located on a 35-acre property in Three Oaks and was originally the home of Isaac and Sarah Morton. Built between 1870 and 1875, the house is loaded with historically-significant artifacts, taking visitors through two centuries of local history. Guests can take guided tours to learn more about the Morton family and their settler lifestyle from the pioneer era.

Harbor Shores Golf Club is a championship golf course that offers stunning views of both Lake Michigan and the St. Joseph River. It was designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus and opened in 2010 as the only public golf course he has designed in the Midwest. The layout features 5 distinctive tee boxes located on every hole to cater to all skill levels, while still providing an exciting challenge for even the most experienced golfer.