Copyright: Michigan State Parks & Forests
Indian Lake State Park features the fourth largest inland lake in the UP.
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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 6 miles long and 3 miles wide. The lake was once called M'O'Nistique Lake. According to surveyor records dated 1850, Native Americans lived in log cabins near the outlet of the Lake. The park is composed of two units which are 3 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 Civilian Conservation Corps and Works Project Administration labor. The original acquisition of land at the west shore was in 1939, however, development did not begin until 1965.
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.
Attractions
- Located on a mile of sandy beach, Indian Lake State Park offers recreation opportunities for swimmers, anglers and campers. The South Shore Campground with 158 campsites has modern facilities including flush toilets, showers, electricity, sanitation station and barrier free campsites. The West Shore Campground offers 144 semi-modern sites with electricity and rustic vault toilets - no showers. The south shore offers lakeside camping while the west shore offers more secluded sites quarter mile to half a mile from the lake. For the camper who has little or no camping equipment, the park offers Rent-A-Tipi (army cots included). A large cooler, light and propane stove are available for an additional fee. Camping facilities are open April 15 to November 1, with no modern toilets open the first and last two weeks. Two barrier free mini-cabins with electricity are available for rent. Each cabin sleeps four people on bunk beds. Bedding is not provided. Outdoor cooking grill, fire ring and picnic table are included. Modern toilets and showers are just seconds away at the campground restrooms. Both the camper and day user will enjoy the clean sandy beaches for sunbathing and shallow water for swimming. Two large picnic shelters are available for rent or may be used on a first-come basis if they are not rented for the day. Indian Lake has a maximum depth of 18 feet with about 90% of the lake less than 15 feet deep. It is best suited for smaller boats. Anglers can enjoy fishing for perch, walleye, northern pike, muskellunge, rock bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill, sturgeon and brown trout. 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. Located in the City of Manistique is the "Believe It or Not" syphon bridge with the road crossing the bridge below the level of the river. Located near the famous bridge is the distinctive and ornamental "Water Tower." Built in 1921 of rare French architectural design, the water tower is a local landmark. Thompson State Fish Hatchery is only 2 miles from the park and is open weekdays for viewing between 8 AM - 4:30 PM.
Recreation - Recreation available at Indian Lake State Park includes cabin lodging, camping, fishing, swimming, and picnicking.
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 Climate - The Upper Peninsula normally experiences mild summers with average temperatures near 70 degrees F (21 degrees C). Winter temperatures average 14 degrees F (-10 degrees C). Rain and snowmelt in the region can reach up to 200 inches annually. Travelers should be aware that significant amounts of snow could fall within a relatively short period of time resulting in hazardous road conditions. Location -
Indian Lake State Park is located 4 miles west of Manistique, Michigan on County Road 442. It is also reached from Thompson by traveling 3 miles north on M-149 and 1/2 mile east on County Road 442.
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