Michigan's Largest Artificial Lake Is An Outdoor Paradise For Swimming, Boating, & Fishing

Nestled between Lakes Superior, Erie, Huron, and Michigan, locals and tourists in Michigan clearly have no shortage of waterfront to enjoy. But the thing about the Great Lakes is that they are incredibly wide and deep, as well as choppy and cold. For a wonderful alternative to mighty Lake Michigan, nearby Hamlin Lake offers visitors a more relaxing outdoor experience that's ideal for families and those looking to engage in watersports.

Part of the Hamlin Township, Hamlin Lake is the largest in-land artificial lake in the state. But at roughly 5,000 acres and with a max depth of 79 feet, it's still fairly small compared to any Great Lake. The size is part of its appeal. If you're hoping to splash in the water with your toddler or want to go kayaking in a relaxed environment, Hamlin Lake is a more manageable option. It's also generally warmer than its neighboring cousin as well, with the water temperature often reaching 70 degrees and higher by June (Lake Michigan generally doesn't reach the 70s until mid-to-late July, if that). This makes it a much more comfortable spot to swim in as well.

Spending a day or even a week on Hamlin Lake means getting plenty of sunshine while out on the water. If you didn't bring your own boat, you can rent one from Hamlin Lake Boat Rentals. A basic pontoon can be rented for as low as $200 to $250 for just a couple of hours, and can fit five to eight people. Rentals go up from there for deluxe pontoons and fishing boats. Speaking of which, you're likely to see plenty of fish here ranging from walleye, bluegill, small mouth bass, and muskie to crappies, northern pike, and perch.

If you're looking for more swimming and lazing about on the sand, Hamlin Lake Beach on the lake's western shore, inside Ludington State Park, is your best bet. Spread out on some beach chairs to sunbathe or jump into the warm waters for some swimming. When hunger strikes, the beach is also home to a concession stand where you can fill up on pizza, sub sandwiches, chips, ice cream, and other treats. You can also rent solo and tandem kayaks, canoes, pedal boats, stand up paddleboards, and even rowboats here. While you can kayak or canoe around the lake, there's also a separate canoe trail to explore that can take anywhere from two to four hours (so make sure to be prepared with water, snacks, and sunscreen).

For an added side quest, you can also take a quick trip over to see the Hamlin Lake Dam. Built in 1914, it's an excellent spot to fish for trout (as well as salmon in the fall) should you feel so inclined. You can also go on the wheelchair-accessible Sable River Trail right on the dam and read the interpretive panels that highlight some local history.

Hamlin Lake is home to a number of cottage-filled resorts for your stay. K's Edgewater Resort is a local favorite with multiple two-bedroom cottages boasting lake views. Prices range from $135 to $185 per night. Heaven on Hamlin rents charming cottages right on the water for $775 to $1,800 per week, with a protected cove to park your boat for a extra fee. Additionally, some visitors choose to stay in Ludington State Park, Michigan's premier camping destination.

While the point of going to Hamlin Lake is to enjoy as much outdoor time as possible, if you feel the need for a delicious restaurant meal, you can make a stop at The Perch. The only proper waterfront restaurant on the lake, here you'll enjoy a variety of dishes from pork chops to pasta to burgers and more. Additionally, if your group is feeling the need for some indoor fun, you can take a short drive down to Stix Ludington. Open since 1954, this entertainment center features a restaurant as well as live music and a bowling alley. It's the perfect place for a family-friendly outing after a day at the beach.

Getting to Hamlin Lake requires a bit of preparation. The closest airport is Manistee County Blacker Airport (MBL), about 40 minutes north of the lake, with daily flights to and from Chicago's O'Hare, the most popular airport in Illinois. The next best option is flying into Gerald R. Ford International Airport, then driving about two hours north. And for those in (or even flying into) Milwaukee, the Lake Express fast ferry can take you from there to Muskegon, Michigan, in just two and a half hours. It's a quick hour drive north to Hamlin after that.

For more aquatic fun, check out our list of the best lake towns in Michigan worthy of a weekend getaway.