20 Attractions to Explore Near North Point County Park

Van Buren State Park offers visitors a unique and diverse range of outdoor experiences. From the 400-acre state park, you can access more than three miles of sandy beachfront, explore the picturesque forest trails, or even try your hand at fishing in the nearby Lake Michigan. The park's modern facilities, including restrooms, showers, and concession stands, make it an ideal destination for a refreshing day trip or a longer stay in one of its many campsites or cabins.

Van Buren Trail State Park is a must-visit for any outdoor enthusiast. This 14-mile trail boasts stunning views of the countryside, woodlands, and wetlands that make up this serene landscape. Ideal for hiking, biking, horseback riding, or even snowmobiling in the winter, this state park offers activities for everyone. Along the way, visitors can appreciate the beauty of the Paw Paw River and the remnants of the historic Michigan Central Railroad.

The Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum, located in Van Buren County, Michigan, is a stunning destination for those interested in nature and gardening. Named after the renowned botanist and horticulturist, this museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting his legacy. Visitors will be wowed by the extensive collection of botanical specimens and artifacts, as well as the beautifully maintained gardens that surround the property.

Standing proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan in Van Buren County, Michigan, is the charming South Haven Lighthouse. Built in 1872, this iconic structure served as a guiding beacon for steamboats that sailed the Great Lakes for over a century. Today, it still stands strong and continues to dazzle visitors with its red steel frame and white-washed brick tower. Make sure to take a walk along the pier and admire the breathtaking views of the lake and town.

North Beach is a charming village located in the heart of Van Buren County. This quaint lakeside community is perfect for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a laid-back lifestyle. With its beautiful sandy beach, sprawling park areas, and picturesque waterfront views, North Beach offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The village is also known for its vibrant arts scene, featuring local galleries, music festivals, and creative workshops.

South Haven Center For the Arts is a beautiful art center located in the heart of Van Buren County, Michigan. The center aims to inspire creativity and explore new artistic horizons through their various programs and exhibits. They offer classes for all ages, from painting and sculpture to digital media and printmaking. In addition, their rotating exhibits showcase the work of talented local artists, as well as established artists from across the country.

The Michigan Maritime Museum is a treasure trove for all those passionate about maritime history. This museum boasts a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the state's rich maritime heritage. Visitors can learn about the Great Lakes' role in the United States' development, the importance of the fishing industry, and the significance of lighthouses to keep sailors safe. Furthermore, the museum hosts various events and educational programs.

Nestled in the heart of Van Buren County, Michigan lies the picturesque Kal-Haven Trail Sesquicentennial State Park. This 34-mile trail winds its way from South Haven to Kalamazoo, boasting stunning views of the surrounding countryside along the way. The trail was created from an abandoned railroad, and remnants of its history can still be seen throughout, adding a unique charm to the experience.

GingerMan Raceway is a true gem for any thrill-seeking enthusiast! The track has a unique layout that challenges even the most seasoned drivers. With a mix of high-speed straightaways and technical turns, GingerMan will provide an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to push the limits of their driving skills. The track is well-maintained and features top-notch facilities including garages, paddock areas, and grandstands that provide excellent views of the action.

Saddle Lake, is a peaceful and scenic sight to behold. It is a natural lake spanning over 70 acres, offering plenty of opportunities for fishing and water activities. The lake is surrounded by beautiful forested areas that provide the perfect setting for hiking and camping. The community around Saddle Lake is small but welcoming, making it an ideal spot for a quiet getaway.

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.

South Scott Lake is a breathtaking natural destination covers an area of 95 acres and is surrounded by lush greenery and serene forests. The crystal-clear water of the lake is perfect for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings while picnicking on the shore or exploring the trails nearby. The lake also boasts an abundance of wildlife, making it a popular spot for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts.

Rocky Gap Park, is a nature lover’s paradise. This destination offers visitors the opportunity to explore its 154 acres while immersed within breathtaking wilderness and landscapes. Rocky Gap Park also provides several activities for visitors such as camping, fishing, kayaking, and hunting during certain seasons. Additionally, it features picnic areas and several miles of trails for hiking and biking - perfect for outdoor recreation or getting away from it all!

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.

Kal-Haven Trail Sesquicentennial State Park is located at the heart of Kalamazoo County, Michigan. This majestic trail runs along an abandoned rail corridor that passes through 33.5 miles of rural countryside, woodlands, and wetlands between the towns of Kalamazoo and South Haven. The pathways are open to hikers, cross-country skiers, cyclists and horseback riders who can explore gently rolling terrain on paved or crushed limestone.

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.

Tiscornia Park, is a perfect destination for nature lovers looking for some peace and quiet. Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, Tiscornia boasts miles of shoreline with trails to explore plus a beach area and picnic spots where you can enjoy the stunning beauty of the Great Lakes. Visitors can also take advantage of great fishing opportunities as well as ample wildlife viewing areas.

Hutchins Lake is a picturesque spot known for its serene beauty and plentiful outdoor activities. Surrounded by lush forests on all sides, the lake is home to various species of fish and local wildlife. Visitors can partake in activities like fishing, canoeing, camping, swimming, or just enjoying the stunning views. With secured access gates around the lake, it remains peaceful and private for both locals and visitors alike.

St Joseph North Pier Inner Lighthouse stands tall between the two North Pier heads, at a height of 51 feet. This lighthouse serves as a beacon of hope for sailors who come across the glittering blue waters of Lake Michigan. Constructed in 1907 from iron and steel, it reflects the splendor of bygone days in its white tower that's crowned with a bright red roof. Withstanding wear and tear over many decades, this lighthouse is a living example of our industrial heritage.

Silver Beach County Park is a popular spot located on the south shore of Lake Michigan. Visitors love to explore nature and enjoy the breathtaking views as they bask in the sunshine. This park offers loads of recreational activity options for all ages, such as swimming, bike rentals, sand volleyball courts and playgrounds for kids. It also has a boardwalk perfect for sunny seaside strolls in addition to plenty of picnic areas with grills available for those looking to spend time outdoors.