Photo by Mark Steigenga

Experience the Hamlin Lake Dam

The Hamlin Lake Dam is within the Ludington State Park, and it’s worth the drive to check it out. You can reach the dam by taking M-116 north of Ludington all the way to the end, and then enter the Ludington State Park at the gate. Once inside, follow the state park road to the end parking lot. From here, it’s just a few short steps to the dam.

History of the Dam

In 1852, Charles Mears purchased land along the Big Sable River, in search of a mill location. The mouth of “Big Sable Lake,” with its narrow stream to Lake Michigan seemed the ideal location. Mears built the first wooden dam and established a sawmill in 1856. This dam was located a few hundred feet downstream from the present-day dam, and raised the lake 12-15 feet. A smaller, wooden dam in the lower Sable held back water to create a large holding pond for logs…thus the creation of Hamlin Lake. Since the demise of the lumber industry, there was no need to build a functional dam. But along the Hamlin Lake shoreline (the former holding pond), businesses, homes, and resorts had begun to spring up, establishing what is now known as a beautiful vacation getaway, the Hamlin Lake area.

A new, concrete dam was completed in 1914, about 100 yards upstream from the original dam, within the Ludington State Park. And underneath Hamlin Lake lies a bit of Mason County history- a 50-year-old village that played an important part in the development of this region.

The water flows through the Hamlin Dam during sunset. | Mark Steigenga Photography

Adjusting the Water Levels

The Ludington State Park states that the lowering of the dam takes place on the fourth Monday in October each fall. This should take anywhere from 2-6 weeks. Each year, Hamlin Lake is lowered two feet in the fall and raised by the same amount in the spring and takes four to eight weeks, depending on precipitation. This process is done to control ice damage and erosion. The decision to raise the water level is usually made in late March or early April.

The springtime rising of the lake is more tentative in nature. Before the springtime process can begin, the DNRE must make sure that there is absolutely no ice left on the lake. Again, this is to make sure that the docks and launches are not damaged by lake ice. Once this happens, the DNRE sends out a press release alerting local newspapers and other media around the state.

Amenities and a Hot Spot for Fishing

Cast your line into the falling waters at the bottom of the dam amongst other anglers. This is a prime spot to catch a trout at the base of the dam. Walkways on either side provide a vantage point to catch the fishing action, or take in the serenity of the waters flowing into the river below.

Have a boat of your own? A launch is close by that launches you into the Big Sable River that connects to Hamlin Lake for an afternoon on the water.

The Sable River Trail

The Sable River Trail has been improved over the last few years to accommodate people in wheelchairs who wish to access the Hamlin Dam and Big Sable River. This is a relaxing walk on the dam and along the river boardwalks and paved pathway. Interpretive panels along the walk point out important historic sites and changes over the last 200 years. Fishing is very good near the dam and on the river, especially when the fall salmon run begins. In the winter, the river and dam area comes alive with migratory waterfowl and playful river otters. If you’re lucky, you may see a Bald Eagle swoop down to pluck a fish from the river.

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Contact Ludington State Park

Planning a visit to the Ludington State Park area? Have questions about your trip? Here’s where you can find help: 

Directions to the Ludington State Park

This drive along the Lake Michigan shoreline takes you through the dunes to one of the most beautiful destinations anywhere. It’s especially memorable at sunset.

Discover Things to See and Do in the Ludington State Park

Big Sable Point Lighthouse

The black-and-white striped, 112 foot lighthouse at the Ludington State Park stands proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Aerial View of Big Sable Point

The aerial view of Big Sable Point features Hamlin Lake, Ludington State Park, and Big Sable Point Lighthouse on Lake Michigan.

Camping at Ludington State Park

One of the most popular state parks in the Midwest! Ludington State Park has four campgrounds, hundreds of sites for your camping pleasure.

Hamlin Lake Dam

The Hamlin Lake Dam controls the lake levels of Hamlin Lake, and the portion of Big Sable River which runs through the Ludington State Park.

Dune Grass Concessions

Dune Grass Concessions offers watercraft & bike rentals, concession food, ice cream, convenience items, State Park & Hamlin Lake souvenirs!

Experience the Hamlin Lake area!

Fishing on Hamlin Lake

Fishing on Hamlin Lake

If there’s one thing that Hamlin Lake is known for, it’s excellent fishing. Catch crappie, bluegill, and more across thousands of acres.

Hamlin Lake

Hamlin Lake is where you want to be. It offers terrific summer recreation, including swimming, boating, tubing, and more!

Fishing on Hamlin Lake

Hamlin Lake Fishing Map

This Hamlin Lake Fishing Map details what kind of fish you might catch in various sections of the lake. Helpful for all anglers.