Discover the Oldest Man-Made Lake in Michigan

If there’s one natural resource that Michigan has in abundance, it’s water. This magnificent state is part of the great lakes and is home to one of the largest lakes in the U.S., Lake Superior.

It is also home to Hamlin Lake, the oldest man-made lake in the state. It’s one of the biggest attractions in the state, as people come from all over to enjoy it.

How Many Lakes Are Located in Michigan?

Michigan is one of the best places to be if you enjoy visiting lakes. This state has more than 10,000 lakes and is part of the North American freshwater system. While most of the lakes are small or mid-sized, there are some larger ones worth noting.

Michigan’s largest lakes include Crystal Lake, Higgins Lake, Manistique Lake, Mullet Lake, and Burt Lake. However, the largest lake in Michigan is Lake Superior, measuring 31,700 square miles and extending into Canada.

The lakes of Michigan are exciting and excellent places to visit with family and friends. Many are accessible and offer lots of different activities.

The Oldest Man-Made Lake in Michigan

Hamlin Lake is the most exquisite 5,000 acres of water you can imagine. It is the oldest man-made lake in Michigan, and it’s quite beautiful.

Hamlin Lake dates back to the 1800s when plenty of sawmilling occurred in the area. One sawmill, set up in the 1850s, dammed the Sable River, leading to the Hamlin Lake’s formation.

The lake is two miles wide and 12 miles long. It covers 5,350 acres and is divided into two sections. The upper section of Hamlin Lake is 80 feet deep, while the lower section is 34 feet deep.

Families and friends seeking fun and relaxation will enjoy spending time at Hamlin Lake. There is plenty to see and many activities, which explains the millions of people who flock there annually.

If you want to explore Hamlin Lake, head to Ludington State Park. Visitors who tour the park will encounter Hamlin Lake Dam and the sandy shoreline of Hamlin Lake Beach. Sunbathers and swimmers enjoy this part of the park.

What to Do at Hamlin Lake?

There are many things to see and do in and around Hamlin Lake. Bring your swimwear and take a dip in the calm waters. In addition, folks can enjoy other water activities like canoeing, paddle boarding, and boating. Don’t worry if you don’t have a boat. There are places around Hamlin Lake where you can rent a boat for the day.

Also, bring your hiking shoes and explore the state park. Plenty of beautiful hiking trails offer the best of Michigan. The diverse wildlife in Michigan Park includes bald eagles, wild turkeys, chipmunks, and raccoons.

If fishing is your thing, then Hamlin Lake is the place to be. The oldest man-made lake in Michigan is home to numerous fish species. These include muskie, crappie, perch, and bass.

Parks and Beaches Around Hamlin Lake

Hamlin Lake is home to some of the most spectacular parks and beaches. It’s the best place to host a picnic and have a fantastic time.

Victory Township Park is a peaceful area offering privacy. There’s a pavilion, picnic tables, and a restroom.

Next, Wilson Park is the more popular park in the area. Many locals and visitors head to Wilson Park on a beautiful day. It’s perfect for a picnic set-up since there are tables and a pavilion with a cover. Kids will love spending time on the small playground. And you can spend the night at one of the accommodations in the area.

Also, check out Long Skinny Park on Hamlin Lake’s lower side. Just as the name suggests, this is a long and skinny park. However, it’s a good picnic place with a beach and picnic tables available.

Where is Hamlin Lake Located on a Map?

Hamlin Lake, located in Michigan, is a man-made lake that has been expanded through the backing up of the Big Sable River by the Hamlin Lake Dam, just before it flows into Lake Michigan. Spanning an area of 5,350 acres, the lake stretches 12 miles in length and spans 2 miles in width. Notably, it holds the distinction of being the largest man-made lake in the state of Michigan.

Here is Hamlin Lake on a map:

The photo featured at the top of this post is © JonathanCarpenter40/Shutterstock.com