20 Attractions to Explore Near Whitefish Lake

Howard Christensen Nature Center offers a space for individuals to explore the wonders of nature. With 589 acres open for exploration, Howard Christensen Nature Center includes trails, a rope bridge, meadows, and streams. The park features miles of trails that are open year round offering stunning views of wetlands, forests, and wild flowers. There are also educational programs offered seasonally that include topics such as gardening, birding tours, stargazing events and more.

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.

Long Lake Park is a beautiful destination for outdoor fun. With well-maintained hiking trails, a large lake for swimming and fishing, picnic facilities, and plenty of open space, it's the ideal spot for a family day out or a romantic evening. The park also boasts an impressive array of wildlife, including migratory birds and multiple species of fish. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings while learning more about nature and local wildlife.

Nestled in the heart of Newaygo County, lies the serene and picturesque Brooks Lake. This hidden gem boasts crystal clear water perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. With its lush trees and peaceful surroundings, it's the ideal spot for a quiet weekend getaway or a family vacation. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a nature lover's paradise. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, Brooks Lake has something for everyone.

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.

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.

Hess Lake, offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The lake boasts crystal-clear water and ample opportunities for fishing and boating, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The surrounding area is also home to numerous campgrounds and vacation rentals, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.

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.

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.

Garden Club Park spanning 20 acres of land, it is well-known for its beautiful foliage and towering trees that can be admired from the winding park trails. There are multiple outdoor activities available at the park including basketball and tennis courts, a children's playground, and picnic areas. Visitors that prefer more tranquil activities can wander through the butterfly garden or along the pond meditation path. It's easy to spend an entire day marveling at this stunning park.

Rockford Dam Overlook offers breathtaking views of the Grand River. Visitors have the chance to watch a captivating sunset over the horizon while taking in the incredible sights. The area itself is quite peaceful and tranquil, with plenty of room for exploration and reflection. Within walking distance you will also find historic buildings and monuments, steeped in local history. The dam itself is quite impressive, offering a glimpse of life on the river from an elevated vantage point.

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.

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.

Pickerel Lake, is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. With crystal clear waters and picturesque surroundings, it is the perfect destination for fishing, swimming, boating or just lounging on the beach. The lake is home to a variety of fish species including walleye, smallmouth bass, and northern pike, making it a dream spot for fishing enthusiasts. Surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills, Pickerel Lake also offers great hiking trails and camping sites.

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.

Lake Montcalm located near the city of Remus and tucked away among rolling hills and wooded areas, this glacial lake is approximately 690-acres with depths reaching close to 40 feet. Boasting clean water and an abundance of fish species like large-mouth bass, bluegill sunfish, northern pike, yellow perch, crappie, pumpkinseed sunfish and walleye; it's clear why angling is one of the most popular activities on Lake Montcalm.

Rogue River Park is the perfect spot for a relaxing day of outdoor fun. Set along the winding banks of the scenic Rogue River, visitors are able to take in the lush greens and blues of nature while fishing and strolling along trails. There are plenty of facilities located throughout the park including picnic shelters, playgrounds, restrooms, and grills. For those who prefer a more active experience, there is an off-leash area for dogs to run freely.

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.

Wahlfield Park, is a great destination features trails and wide open areas for hiking and biking; a pond stocked with trout for fishing; and play areas for children. Sports enthusiasts can use nearby soccer fields and baseball diamonds. Visitors can also camp out beneath the stars from one of the park's 14 campsites or enjoy an outdoor picnic at one of the Pavilion shelters. Whether it be a day trip to take in nature's beauty or a weekend getaway with family and friends.

Nestled in the heart of Newaygo County, Michigan lies the picturesque Lake White Cloud. Offering breathtaking views and crystal-clear water, this lake is a favorite destination for fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, providing an ideal setting for hiking and camping. With its serene beauty and abundance of activities, Lake White Cloud has something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination.