Photo by Mark Steigenga
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.
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 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.
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.
With some of the best fishing and boating around, Hamlin Lake brings much delight as well as some of the most beautiful, scenic backdrops.
Read about the history of Hamlin Lake, when it was created, and the major role this lake played in the milling industry in Ludington.
Enjoy a picnic by Upper Hamlin Lake. With grills, a pavilion and picnic tables available, this park provides the perfect family setting.
Hamlin Lake is home to several parks and numerous dunes for exploration and leisure. Pack a picnic, cast your line, and enjoy the sites.
Cast your line into Upper Hamlin Lake or enjoy a picnic, the playground, or watch Hamlin Lake’s Independence Fireworks at Wilson Hill Park.
The Ludington Skate Plaza is a popular spot for kids with skateboards or in-line skates, and also draws spectators to Stearns Park.
The Miss Ludington Area Scholarship Program is typically held each September and is a precursor to the Miss Michigan program.
Everyone enjoys a good play or concert, and Ludington blessed with talented actors and musicians that entertain us all year ’round.
Time to replace cabin fever with spring fever! Spring has sprung! We’re here to fill you in on what’s happening this April in Ludington.
Dusty’s Auto Body & Detail has over 30 years experience in state-of-the-art collision repair/detailing on all types of vehicles and RVs.
The Ludington area is a paradise for those who love boating and fishing. Numerous marinas rent a variety of boats and offer modern facilities.
Visit downtown Ludington and enjoy music and family activities in an outdoor setting, to celebrate Octoberfest!
There’s no need to take a vacation from your health, beauty routine, or fitness while you’re enjoying yourself here in the Ludington area.
This outdoor theatre festival is held in downtown Ludington’s Rotary Park over two weekends each summer and feature local actors.
In addition to thousands of book titles, the Mason County District Library’s Ludington and Scottville branches provide many free programs.
Is your business located in Ludington? Contact us today to learn about advertising opportunities with VisitLudington.com.
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