The area, located across M-119 from the Indian Hills Trading Post, is a favorite place for fishing, picnicking, and observing the swans and other wildlife frequenting the area. Near the southern end of M-119, the property marks the beginning of “the Gateway to Harbor Project,” a Conservancy program to protect natural areas along M-119, between Petoskey and Harbor Springs.

Approximately half of the lake frontage was obtained by Bear Creek Township in 1988 with Conservancy help. A grant obtained by the Township and Conservancy in 1995 enabled the Township to purchase the remaining half of Spring Lake frontage on M-119. Aided by a donation of a quarter of the property’s appraised value from the property owners, the acquisition was completed using monies from special set-asides for transportation enhancement projects through a federal highway program. With the additional land obtained, the park now includes all of the lake frontage on M-119.

The Township has received another grant to help develop parking areas, restrooms and a unique interpretive trail through wetlands on the park property. Picnic tables are also available for use on the site.

Directions: From Petoskey take M-119 North approximately 1/2 mile. The park is on the right.