LINCOLN CHARTER TOWNSHIP—With Grand Mere State Park located just to its south, Lincoln Charter Township’s North Lake Park might often be overlooked, but it is a beautiful, natural enclave that should not be missed by those who love the outdoors.

Supported and cared for by the Lakeshore Rotary Club, North Lake Park is a popular local spot for those who enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities, and it boasts a number of amenities as well.

The park, located at 3600 Grand Mere Road, sits on the shore of North Grand Mere Lake. North Lake Park is open each day from sunrise until one-half hour before sunset.

There, anglers can take advantage of either the shoreline or several docks to cast for pan fish. Additional viewing platforms allow visitors to get a better view of the flora and fauna that make North Lake their home.

The park also includes a playground and swing set, as well as a volleyball court for those visitors who simply want to enjoy some recreation beside the small lake. A spacious picnic pavilion, grills and restrooms are also provided for the convenience of park patrons.

One new feature at North Lake is the system of pathways that Lakeshore Rotary Club members and other volunteers have been helping to build on Fridays.

“They received a grant from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund last year to build the wooden pathways,” explained Terry Smith, the township’s treasurer, who also oversees the parks.

These wooden-plank pathways allow a safe, barrier-free way for visitors to venture into the woods near the lake without disturbing the ferns and other plants growing there.

For those who would like to learn more about the various species that call the North Lake area “home,” Sarret Nature Center will be leading an “Informational Beach Walk” there at 8 a.m. on July 20. Participants need to pre-register by calling Sarret at (269) 927-4832, and the fee for the program is $5.

Those who wish to visit North Lake should be aware that park rules prohibit overnight camping, alcohol, ground fires, smoking, motorized vehicles on the beach, and unleashed pets. Observing those rules will ensure that the park remains beautiful for future visitors.