Explore the Chippewa River Water Trail
The Chippewa River flows for 91.8 miles through the central Lower Peninsula. The river stream runs through a mix of woodland habitats, farm country, and residential neighborhoods including cities, townships and villages of Isabella County. The river is popular for canoeists, kayakers and tubers during the warm months and is home to cold water fish species and bass fishing.
Chippewa River access is available at the following Isabella County Parks:
Fish Species at Isabella County Parks
Commercial and recreational fishing has always been an influential staple in Michigan’s economy as well as a part of our cultural and traditional heritage.
Isabella County Parks and Recreation provides diverse, year-round recreational fishing opportunities at Deerfield Nature Park, Coldwater Lake Family Park, Herrick Recreation Area, Majeske Landing, Meridian Park, and Gilmore Park featuring some of Michigan’s favorite game fish such as walleye, yellow perch, large/smallmouth bass, and northern pike.
Enjoy the fresh air, good times with friends, and the thrill of the catch, as per the Michigan tradition, at Isabella County Parks.
Water Recreation Access in Isabella County Parks
Coldwater Lake Family Park
Coldwater Lake is an all-sports lake located in Weidman, MI (Nottawa Township). Visit Coldwater Lake Family Park for great camping opportunities, enjoy the sandy beach or utilize the kayak and boat launch.
Herrick Recreation Area
Herrick Recreation Area, located in Clare, MI (Wise Township), has 3 ponds, two of which have boat access. Boats permitted at Herrick Recreation Area include row boats, canoes, kayaks, and boats with electric trolling motors. Large motors or gas-powered motors are not permitted on the ponds. You can also enjoy fishing at the ponds or swimming at the swimming beach.
Maynard S. Gilmore Park
Gilmore Park offers a fishing platform on Lake Isabella in Weidman, MI (Sherman Township). The park also serves as an ice fishing access site in the winter months.
Canoeing, Tubing & Kayaking
There are many opportunities throughout Isabella County Parks to enjoy water activities. Coldwater Lake Family Park, Deerfield Nature Park, Herrick Recreation Area, Majeske Landing and Meridian Park all have areas to launch a canoe, tube or kayak.
Isabella County Parks and Recreation does not rent canoes, tubes or kayaks. If you are interested in renting a canoe, tube or kayak, you may contact one of the following liveries:
Buckley’s Mountainside Canoes (canoes & kayaks only) – 989.772.5437
Chippewa River Outfitters – 989.772.5474
