Quiet and nearby- Oceana’s Black Lake

Black Lake in Oceana County is an inland lake of 26 acres located north of Walkerville on 176th Ave. Oceana County operates a small campground there, and day use is always allowed, free.

There are 11 electric and 3 non-electric campsites, but you want to be sure to reserve early, because the sites fill quickly. Many campers rent by the month or season, so it’s not a place you are likely to be able to camp for a spontaneous weekend or night unless you are extremely lucky.

There is a dirt boat ramp with a dock. The entire lake has a no-wake regulation, making it a place to enjoy some quiet fishing or paddling, rather than to take a personal watercraft or to waterski.

For day use, there is a grassy picnic area with tables and a grill, and a small playground with swings and a slide. Potable water is available from a spigot. A small sandy beach area is set aside for swimmers.

Children must have a parent present to swim; no lifeguard is on duty.

It’s nice to discover little gems like Black Lake where one can get away without traveling hundreds of miles. For more information see www.getoffthecouch.info/oceana/blacklakeoceana.htm Or call 231-638-3365 to reach the camp host.