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Bush Lake, just outside the village limits of Baldwin Michigan in Lake County, is a small lake of only twenty acres or so. The reported depths of this lake are up to 30 feet. Reportedly this sandy bottom lake has good springs to it. As the water levels in other Michigan lakes vary during the summer months, Bush Lake seems to remain constant.

Bush Lake is one of those small Michigan lakes that largely go unnoticed by so many on the way to nearby larger and busier lakes. But, those in the neighborhood know that some of the “no name” lakes offer some of the better fishing holes in the state.

It’s Saturday. It’s Summer. It’s time to enjoy one of Michigan’s lakes.

Located in Lake county, a mere mile outside of Baldwin Michigan, along US 10, is another one of  Michigan’s lakes.  Whalen Lake, a small 33 acre lake, has reported depths of 26 feet.

The waterfront of Whalen Lake is lined with a mix of seasonal cottages, as well as a number of year round lakefront homes.

No public access is known to exist for this lake.

This Michigan lake is one of the many beautiful lakes you will observe as you travel on Michigan roads. Whalen Lake, along with many of the Michigan lakes, offers a peaceful break  in the fast paced lifestyles we live.

It’s Saturday. It’s Summer. It’s time to enjoy the Michigan Lakes.

You have seen it, chances are you have driven by it. Government Lake is located along M 37, one mile north of Baldwin Michigan. Perhaps you may have stopped and enjoyed a hamburger at the Government Lake Lodge.

This Lake County lake is a small lake of only 22 acres. Largely a shallow lake, the deepest point is only 15 feet deep.

The lake is home to mainly seasonal cottages, but there is also a handful of year round residents. This sand bottom lake is known for its aqua blue water.

Government Lake is neighbor to several other small Michigan lakes including Mench Lake, Cashion Lake, Putnam Lake and Little Star Lake.

If you know why this Michigan Lake is called Government Lake, drop me a note- I would like to know if there is a story behind the name.

The Manistee National Forest extends over several Michigan counties: Lake, Manistee, Mason, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana and Wexford. The majority of  Newaygo County also lies within its district.

There is something for everyone including hiking trails (48 miles) and camping, horseback trails (35 miles) and ski trails, snowmobile trails (50 miles) and ATV trails (19 miles).

Within Newaygo County, the forest offers two developed campgrounds. Nichols Lake and Benton Lake campgrounds are less busy than a private campground or a state campground. These campgrounds are designed for those who really like to rough it, as electric and sewage hookups are not available.

You may chose to use the campsites on one of Michigan’s small lakes within the forest: Brush Lake, Condon Lake, Hungerford Lake, Sawkaw or Shelly lake. These sites are more rustic but generally have drinking water, garbage disposal and restrooms.

As with most attractions, there are fees involved: $3.00 for one day, $5.00 for up to seven days or $20.00 for the season. You can get more information by writing: District Ranger, 650 N Michigan, Baldwin Mi., 49304 or by calling 1-231-745-4631

It’s that time again. The 52nd annual Troutarama is being held in Baldwin Michigan Wednesday, July 23 through Sunday, July 27.

I checked out the schedule of activities and there is something for everyone.  From food booths to crafts, from the fireman’s water battle to live music and everything in between.

The activities begin today @ 4:00 p.m. and conclude Sunday with the Lake County D.A.R.E. Car show at the Baldwin Airport.

Jones Ice Cream is a long established business serving up some of Michigan’s best ice cream. The walls display many years worth of fascinating memorabilia of Lake County and Baldwin’s history.

Please do not interpret this post as a commercial for Jones Ice Cream Store, it is not a commercial. But, as one who enjoys both ice cream and nostalgia, I find this place worthy of recommending to my friends.

Baldwin Michigan is neatly tucked away in wooded Lake County at the crossroads of US10 and M37, 72 miles North of Grand Rapids, 61 Miles South of Traverse City and14 Miles East of US 131.

Like many other towns and villages in Michigan, Baldwin was founded in late 1870s, the lumber era. It was named after Henry Baldwin, a Michigan governor at the time. The woods are still an attraction as Lake County is home to part of the Manistee National Forest, as well as the Pere Marquette State Forest.

Today, Baldwin is considered to be a year around premier destination for sportsman. Fishing and hunting- the reminders everywhere. The Baldwin River flows into the Pere Marquette River just south of town. The PM, as some call the Pere Marquette River, is considered the best for trout, salmon and steelhead.

Canoeing is a popular activity on the Pere Marquette, as it is designated as a national scenic waterway. There are several liverys in the area to rent a canoe or kayak .

Main Street hosts a number of specialty fishing lure and equipment shops as well as many interesting restaurants featuring home cooking with outdoor sidewalk seating. Food always tastes better when it eaten in the great outdoors.

Baldwin serves as the county Seat for Lake County. The court administrative offices, county courthouse and county road commission are found in the area.

As you will see on the signs welcoming you to Baldwin/Lake county, it is Land of 156 Lakes and 46 trout streams. Lakes range from large to small. Big Star Lake, Wolf Lake, Big Bass Lake, Sauble Lake, Harper Lake, Reed Lake, Orchard Lake, Rainbow Lake, Government Lake, Nugent Lake, Bush Lake, Putnam Lake, Idlewild Lake, Whalen Lake and Loon Lake are just a few of the many popular lakes.

Baldwin earns our “Waterland’s Naturally Cool Area” award, 20 lakes within 10 miles.

Check Out: Blessing of the Bikes, Trout, Shrine of the Pines, Lake County

Close calls, road rage and unexpected mechanical problems are all part of life on the Michigan roads. Divine help makes all the difference in life.

 On Sunday the 18th of May, at 1:00 p.m., make plans to be at the Baldwin airport, located just south of town on M37. Take part in the Baldwin’s blessing of the bikes.

For more details: Blessing of the Bikes