Michigan Summer Fun: Revealing Clark Lake’s Best Kept Secrets

Michigan and summers aren't complete unless you've visited one of Michigan's thousands of inland lakes. You may have a favorite or enjoy exploring as many as possible each season. Regardless, ensure your summer bucket list includes a trip to Clark Lake. This spring-fed, nearly 580-acre lake offers families and friends more fun than public parks and beach access.

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Located in Columbia Township, in Clarklake, Michigan, there's no shortage of public access, pavilions, and picnic tables; Clark Lake also has beach and dock access restaurants. The Beach Bar on Ocean Beach Road often has live music that attracts legions of boats who anchor to soak in the sun and lively tunes. Growing up in the area, I've spent more than a few hours there, so I'll warn you: if you're looking for traditional bar food, you may be disappointed, as there are no fryers in the building. That said, order a pizza over the phone and wade in to grab it; it's spectacular.

If pizza isn't your thing, try the dockside offerings at the Eagles Nest, located on Eagle Point. With a menu full of fried favorites and more sophisticated fare, you'll surely find something you'll enjoy in the dining area or on the dockside patio. The patio also features live music from a band on a pontoon boat. If you're heading there by land, you should know that there's only one road that accesses the restaurant.

What really makes Clark Lake a summer bucket list destination in Michigan is the community. The residents take great pride in the lake and the events that bring them together year after year.

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Every July, the Beach Bar hosts the annual Great American Crab Race, where competitors purchase a crab ticket and watch crabs race across a table to crown a winner. The event serves as a fundraiser for area non-profits and helps to fund the nearly 8-mile Clark Lake Spirit Trail. This well-manicured path circles the entirety of the lake, which is the perfect destination for walkers, hikers, and cyclists who want to explore the area.

Another tremendous annual event held on the waters of Clark Lake is Raft-o-Rama. This parade of boats decked out in a yearly theme features some of the finest 'boat decorating' you've ever seen. The 2024 Raft-o-Rama is slated for August 4th, so mark your calendars and soak in this summer feast for the senses.

You'll need time to explore Clark Lake's outstanding hidden features. ClarkLakeSpirit.com can help you get a headstart on your summer trip. It features event schedules, history, and a list of services and amenities available to locals and tourists alike.

Related: Michigan DNR Invasive Species Watchlist: Northern Snakehead

Enjoy your summer and explore everything Michigan has to offer. We might see each other at Raft-o-Rama.