Sand Lake, in the heart of southeast Michigan’s Irish Hills, is a 440-acre gem that has drawn visitors to its shores since before Michigan achieved statehood. This picturesque lake, known for its clear, spring-fed waters and sandy bottom, provides an idyllic setting for swimming, fishing, and various water sports. Its history dates back to around 1840 when Irish immigrants escaping the Potato Famine settled in the area, inspired by the green hills and glacial pothole lakes reminiscent of Ireland. Over the years, Sand Lake has evolved into a beloved resort haven, surrounded by cottages and year-round homes that line its four-mile shoreline.
The lake’s only public access point is a basic boat launch on the southeast corner, a remnant of the days when train service brought summer visitors to the area. Today, many cottage owners travel from Detroit, Toledo, or even Cleveland to spend weekends enjoying activities such as water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, pontooning, and jet skiing. Canoes and kayaks are often seen skirting the shallow shoreline, offering a tranquil way to explore the lake.
With its waters brimming with bluegill, rock bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, northern pike, crappie, largemouth bass and yellow perch, Sand Lake is especially tempting to anglers. The lake becomes an ice fishing haven in the winter, complete with ice houses and fishermen shivering through the bitter cold. The Sand Lake Property Owners Association actively monitors water quality and promotes responsible use of the lake, ensuring its beauty and health for future generations.
Historically, Sand Lake has been a hub of recreational activity. In the late 1800s, locals rented boats and sleeping rooms to travelers, leading to the formation of the Sand Lake Yacht Club in the 1880s. Today, sailboat races are common on weekends, continuing the lake’s long boating tradition. The area’s past is rich with history, from the old resort hotels that once dotted the shoreline to the many Irish surnames that reflect the heritage of its early settlers.
Nearby, the Irish Hills region offers a wealth of attractions and activities. Saint Joseph Church and Shrine, built by Irish Catholics, is a testament to the area’s cultural heritage, with its outdoor Way of the Cross and historic cemetery overlooking Iron Lake. McCourtie Park, with its whimsical concrete bridges and sculptures, is another popular destination, reflecting the artistry of the area’s past. Though neglected, the historic twin Observation Towers on US 12 symbolize the area’s once-thriving roadside attractions.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Irish Hills offer numerous walking and biking trails and the 755-acre Hidden Lake Gardens, managed by Michigan State University, which features natural woods and curated plant collections. Golfers can enjoy one of the seven courses in the area while racing fans flock to the Michigan International Speedway, a popular venue for NASCAR events and other special activities.
The bustling Village of Brooklyn provides all necessary services, from restaurants and shops to a hotel, making it a convenient hub for visitors to the Irish Hills. Public camping is available at Walter J Hayes State Park on Wampler’s Lake, and private campgrounds dot the region, catering to weekend visitors. Sand Lake itself offers a few private housekeeping cottages for rent, often including a boat or canoe, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway.
Whether visiting for a summer weekend, an autumn color tour, or a winter ice fishing expedition, Sand Lake and the surrounding Irish Hills region offer many activities for visitors of all ages. The scenic beauty, rich history, and abundant recreational opportunities ensure that there is always something to do and see near Sand Lake.
