Proud Lake Recreation Area

Copyright: Michigan State Parks & Forests All year Proud Lake Recreation Area provides a respite for residents and area executives.

Attractions - Proud Lake Recreation Area affords visitors a modern campground with its own beach and boat launch site. The 130-site campground overlooks Proud Lake. Modern bathhouses, electric hookup, convenient water fountains, picnic tables, and fire rings enhance the area. Two mini-cabins are available for rent. The campground is open year-round with modern facilities open April 16 to October 16. Two rustic group camps are available to youth groups. One campground is "walk-in" and the other is "drive-up." Fire rings are at both campgrounds. The "walk-in" site, Pines Campground, has a group picnic shelter.

Boaters may access Proud Lake at the Bass Lake Road boat launch. Registered campers may launch boats at the campground launch. Canoes can be rented at the Proud Lake Campground and the Huron River. Canoes, kayaks and paddleboats are available. Reservations can be made along with drop off / pick up services. For more information call 248-685-2379.

Great catches of rainbow and brown trout await the angler. From April 1, when a 2-mile stretch of the Huron River is stocked with trout, until the last Saturday in April, catch and release rules apply. Regular fishing rules apply the rest of the year. There is fishing in the lakes for bass, pike, sunfish and crappies.

Over 20 miles of trails cover several diverse habitats. Two of the hiking / ski trails run parallel to the Huron River, while another loops around a marsh. The longer trails, north of the Huron River, meanders alongside forests, fields and wetlands. During the winter months, skiers can enjoy seeing the evergreens draped with snow. For equestrians and mountain bikers, there is an extensive network of trails offering varied terrain. The bridle / biking trails are located west of Wixom Road.

Hunting is permitted from September 15 through March 31. Rabbit, squirrel, deer and grouse are among the wildlife hunted, each having its own designated season. Hunting is allowed west of Wixom Road and north of the Huron River. State regulations apply.

Guided interpretive walks and other nature activities are offered. A schedule of upcoming programs is available at the park office year-round, or at the campground office during the summer months.

Powers Beach, a popular summer spot, is a great swimming area. A modern bathhouse building and changing courts are located a short distance from the beach.

Playground and ball fields are close by. The two picnic shelters at Powers can be reserved for group use. If a shelter is not reserved, it is available for any patron.

The modern Proud Lake Outdoor Center can accommodate up to 126 people. Three dormitories, an activities building, modern kitchen / dining hall make up this complex. For further information, request a copy of the Michigan DNR Huron River Outdoor Center brochure. Call 248-685-2433 for reservations.

Recreation - Proud Lake Recreation Area offers camping, group camping, swimming, hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, hiking, cross-country skiing, boating, paddling, picnicking, meeting space, wildflower identification, playground fun, nature study, and more.

Camping
Proud Lake- Group Use Area - (248) 685-2433, Contact the park
Proud Lake- Modern - (800) 447-2757, 130 site(s), $20

Trails
Proud Lake-Hiking/Skiing - 6.07 (Miles), Hiking, Cross Country Ski
Proud Lake--Equestrian/Biking - 8.83 (Miles), Bridle, Mountain Biking

Climate - Southeast Michigan is the warmest region in the state with summer temperatures averaging 70 degrees F (above 21 degrees C) but it is not infrequent for days to reach the high 80s. Winter temperatures are warmer as well with averages hovering just below freezing. Yearly moisture amounts range between 18 - 32 inches.

Location - The park is located just below Milford. To reach the park from Interstate 96, take the Wixom Road exit and go north approximately six miles to the park entrance.