20 Attractions to Explore Near Lake Montcalm

Tamarack Lake is the perfect getaway spot for those who like to stay active. Whether you are into fishing, boating, swimming, or taking a peaceful hike around the lake's stunning shoreline, Tamarack Lake has it all! With its wild wildlife and lush terrain, visitors can take in the beauty of nature in every direction. For a true nature escape experience, there are cabins available which allow guests to relax and enjoy all that Tamarack Lake has to offer from sunrise to sunset.

Derby Lake offers the perfect destination for a leisurely getaway. Located near Lake Michigan, it is an idyllic spot surrounded by lush, green forests and tranquil waters that make it ideal for fishing, paddling and boating. The lake can be found within the Manistee National Forest, which provides plenty of opportunity to explore and also features 65 campsites with accessible amenities like running water and electricity.

Cooper Creek County Park is truly a stunning place to visit. Located on a remote lake, the park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, canoeing and camping. Its rustic beauty is exemplified by the miles of trails that weave through picturesque forests and tall grass meadows. The calm waters of the lake make it a perfect spot to observe wildlife and if you're lucky, you may even spot eagles soaring above.

The Fred Meijer Heartland Trail is a perfect trail for hikers of all levels. Stretching from Cedar Springs to Alma, the 33-mile trail follows the Flat River and passes through lush woods, agricultural fields, streams, and ponds. While taking in views of rolling countryside and historical sites, travelers have 18 access points along the way that provide amenities such as parking lots, restrooms, water fountains and benches. This trail also serves as a safe route for cyclists and joggers.

Halls Lake is the ideal destination for anyone looking to appreciate nature's beauty. The lake rests at an elevation of 857 feet above sea level and covers a surface area of 79 acres making it large enough to provide plenty of opportunities to explore but still small enough that visitors can enjoy a feeling of tranquility and privacy when adventuring. Its depth varies between 39 and 105 feet with an average depth of 52 feet making it perfect for swimming or fishing in its waters.

Whitefish Lake is the perfect destination for visitors looking to have an unforgettable time surrounded by nature. This picturesque lake boasts crystal clear waters and a sandy shoreline with plenty of opportunities to relax in its natural surroundings. Boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, and paddling are activities that can be found here as well as numerous trails for hiking and biking. The area also offers rental cabins along the lakefront.

Nestled in the charming county of Newaygo, Michigan lies the tranquil Newaygo State Park. The park offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with a picturesque lake, winding river and serene wooded trails. Whether you're looking for a challenging hiking adventure or a peaceful day of fishing, Newaygo State Park has it all. Picnic areas and playgrounds are also available for family fun while RV camping and rustic cabin rentals offer overnight accommodations.

Rogers Dam is a small, hydroelectric dam Constructed in 1890, it was one of the first commercial dams in Michigan and still produces clean energy today. With two six-foot intake pipes, the dam supplies a total of 1 megawatt of power to local customers by moving water from the lower part of the Muskegon River to Coon Lake. The 27-acre Rogers Dam property also hosts multiple recreational amenities such as an easy access fishing pier and boat launch, double track mountain bike trails.

Rogers Dam Pond is a beautiful place to spend time outdoors. This area features lush greenery and calming waters for an invigorating recreational experience. Visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, plane-spotting and wildlife viewing at this scenic park. Surrounding the pond itself are two nature trails that allow visitors to explore beautiful woods with a variety of flora and fauna while maintaining social distancing.

Brower Park is a great destination for those seeking the outdoors. Surrounded by the beauty of nature, visitors can explore the wooded trails, quiet streams and clear lakes. Activities include fishing from boats or shore plus walking, biking and jogging trails. There is a picnic area under mature trees making it an ideal spot for family gatherings or simply enjoying lunch outside. For those looking for more adventure, try geocaching to discover hidden treasures around nature’s wonders.

Hardy Dam Pond is beloved for its activities and easy access for visitors of all ages. On the lake, fishing is a common pastime with plenty of bass, bluegill and crappie for the taking. Recreational boating can be enjoyed by kayak or electric motor boats. There are two boat launches available for use. A refreshing beach area means families can enjoy sunbathing or swimming on a hot summer’s day. A disc golf course provides added fun.

Hardy Dam Pond is a picturesque spot for outdoor enthusiasts to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the area. This 3,400-acre pond is a man-made reservoir created by the Hardy Dam on the Muskegon River. Visitors can fish for walleye, northern pike, and bass, as well as enjoy water sports like boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The area is surrounded by lush forests, making it an ideal spot for camping and hiking.

The Croton Dam Pond is a beautiful natural attraction that draws in visitors from all around. With its tranquil waters and stunning scenery, it's the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature. This man-made lake provides not only breathtaking views but also endless opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and kayaking. The dam itself also serves as an impressive engineering feat, able to hold back the impressive flow of the Muskegon River.

Theunissen Stadium, is a multi-purpose athletic facility built to support the sports and student body of Central Michigan University. It features astroturf fields for football, soccer, lacrosse and intramural activities. The stadium alsohas an Olympic size running track with two jumps. Additionally, there are three tennis courts and lights for night play. Built in 1960, Theunissen Stadium has been honored nationally for its excellence as an intercollegiate venue.

This venue is home to the Central Michigan University Chippewas football team and has been recognized as one of the most iconic stadiums in the state. With a seating capacity of over 30,000 people and beautiful views of Mount Pleasant City and its surrounding area, Kelly/Shorts Stadium is truly an inspiring sight. It includes many facilities such as new concession stands, upgraded student sections, a luxuriously appointed suite area, and plenty of grassy areas for tailgating activities.

Mill Pond Park is the perfect place to experience natural beauty. Nestled in a tranquil woodland setting, this beautiful park is a wonderful destination for bikers, hikers, and nature lovers alike. Whether walking along the paved path that circles the Mill Pond or taking advantage of one of the designated picnic areas, visitors will enjoy its peaceful atmosphere as they take in stunning views of trails snaking through dense trees and bright flowers dotting the landscape.

Central Michigan University, is lauded for its high-quality academics and commitment to student success. Boasting over 250 academic programs, CMU offers numerous pathways for students to gain knowledge and skills in whatever field interests them most. Facilities such as a learning commons featuring self-serve options, a library where patrons can access digital resources and the newest technology equipment provide valuable resources for students.

Pickerel Lake Park is a truly remarkable place. Nestled among ten acres of natural beauty, the park borders over five miles of the winding Grand River. Visitors can experience nature by taking in vibrant wildflowers and thickly wooded forests along three miles of hiking trails looping around the lake. Well-maintained picnic and play areas create an idyllic setting for families and friends to spend time together in the outdoors.

Nelson Park is a beautiful 72 acre facility featuring more than two miles of walking trails. Along with two playgrounds for children and plenty of open space, visitors also enjoy the disc golf course and abundant wildlife that can be spotted alongside the trails. There is something for everyone at Nelson Park – anglers can take advantage of ample fishing opportunities, and the picnic shelter provides the perfect place to unwind after a day outdoors.

The Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia is an ambitious project that looks to use objects of intolerance to teach about civil and human rights. It houses a collection of more than 8,000 artifacts, including games, dolls, postcards and other materials that highlight the ugly side of racial segregation in America from the late 19th century through the 1960s. It serves as an educational tool to gain knowledge on the systemic discrimination during Jim Crow and how it impacted society.