Yankee Springs recreation Area was once the hunting grounds of the Algonquin Indians and the famous Chieftain, Chief Noonday. The site of Yankee Springs was established in 1835 and the village was made famous by Yankee Bill Lewis who owned and operated a hotel along the stagecoach run from Kalamazoo to Grand Rapids. Recreation - The rugged terrain and marshes, the lakes and streams and the unique beauty of the park's 5000 acres lend itself to many forms of recreation. A modern campground with a sandy beach and boat launch is situated on the shores of beautiful Gun Lake, while rustic camping and youth/group organizational camping are located at Deep Lake. An equestrian campground is also provided. There are 9 lakes located within the park boundaries providing excellent fishing and water sports of all kinds. The area also boasts 12 miles of Mountain Bike trails, 10 miles of Equestrian trails as well as 30 miles of foot trails that include sections of the North Country Trail. A short walk from the modern campground is the day use area with beaches, shelters and an additional boat launch.
Source: mi_dnr · last verified 2026-05-19