Indian Lake State Park

Indian Lake State Park (Big Spring)

Location:

Trail Description:

Indian Lake State Park is located on Indian Lake, the fourth largest inland lake in the Upper Peninsula with an area of 8,400 acres. It is six miles long and three miles wide. The lake was once called M'O'Nistique Lake. According to 1850 surveyor records, Native Americans lived in log cabins near the outlet of the lake.

The park is composed of two units which are three miles apart and separated by the waters of Indian Lake. Original land acquisition at the south shore was in 1932 and development began in 1933 using CCC and WPA labor. The original acquisition of land at the west shore was in 1939, however, development did not begin until 1965.

Features:

Michigan State Park Explorer Program

Learn more about the natural features and resources located in this park with the Outdoor Explorer Program.

Hunting

Playground

These play areas offer a variety of playground equipment for children.

Beach House

Provides clothes-changing area for swimmers.

Swimming

The clean sandy beaches and shallow water make swimming a fun way to spend the day.

Fishing

Perch, walleye, northern pike, muskellunge, rock bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill, sturgeon and brown trout have been fished from Indian Lake.

Picnic Area

Picnic tables and fire pits/grills

Picnic Shelter(s)

Two picnic shelters are available for rent, one being ADA accessible. Contact the park for reservations.

Hiking

A variety of hiking opportunities are available. One section near the lake is paved and ADA accessible.

Boating Access Site/Launch

Access for boating and fishing.

Indian Lake has a maximum depth of 18 feet with about 90 percent of the lake with less than 15 feet deep. It is best suited for smaller boats.

Metal Detecting Areas

Metal detecting is recognized as a legitimate recreation activity when it is conducted in ways that do not damage the natural and cultural resources in Michigan State Parks nor violate applicable state statutes. If you wish to use a metal detector in this state park, here is a map that shows clearly where this activity may take place. Any items found must be reviewed by park staff and may be retained for further investigation.

Area Information and Special Events

The area around Indian Lake State Park is a playground for the sportsman and outdoor recreationist. The Hiawatha National Forest and Lake Superior State Forest offer unlimited opportunities for hunting, fishing, canoeing, hiking, snowmobiling, cross- country skiing and berry picking. The Seney National Wildlife Refuge is a favorite with bird watchers and other wildlife lovers. The mouth of the Thompson Creek and the Manistique River are hot spots for salmon and steelhead fishing in season. Thompson State Fish Hatchery is only two miles from the park and is open weekdays for viewing 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Please check the DNR Calendar for upcoming events at this location and at all state parks and recreations.

Camping

Indian Lake South-Modern - (800) 447-2757, 145 site(s), $22/$20/$16

Indian Lake West-Semi-Modern - (906) 341-2355, 72 site(s), $13

Trails

Indian Lake-Trails - 3 (Miles), Hiking, Cross Country Ski

Trail Distance:

4 miles consisting of 3 loops varying from .25 miles to 2 miles.

Trail Difficulty:

Easy

Indian Lake State Park Metal Detecting Map

Indian Lake State Park Map

Information courtesy of the Department of Natural Resources

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