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Historic Ottawa Beach Parks

2274 Black Lake Ave. Holland, MI 49424

2265 Ottawa Beach Road Holland, MI 49424

Black Lake Boardwalk > Mt. Pisgah > Lake Michigan Beach

This site is made up of 12 park parcels totaling 58 acres that border a number of historic cottages. These park parcels were dedicated in 1886 when the Association of Historic Cottages was established.

Ownership interests in these properties have long been disputed resulting in disagreement between Ottawa County and cottage owners over the extent of public use to be allowed on the properties. For many years, Ottawa County's goal was to transfer the properties to the State of Michigan to be managed through Holland State Park. After over 10 years of effort, the transfer to the state was determined to not be feasible and Ottawa County Parks decided to proceed in developing a master plan for these properties.

In May 2004, a master plan titled Twelve Park Parcels at Ottawa Beach Master Plan Study was adopted by the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners. The approval of this plan was the culmination of a complex planning process which included many public meetings and extensive input from area residents. The plan focuses on expanding public use of selected park parcels that have high value for public recreation. Those parcels feature 700 feet of Lake Michigan beach front, extensive Lake Macatawa waterfront and Mt. Pisgah, a large dune which towers over the harbor. In August 2005, Ottawa County circuit court cleared the way for implementation of the master plan by resolving previous lawsuits and with approval of an agreement with the WMPA.

Plans for the properties include a waterfront walkway with fishing piers, historic interpretive displays, stairs and trails to Mt. Pisgah, continued marina use and waterfront viewing areas. The historic pump house is proposed for renovation as a museum in line with earlier plans by area residents. The bike path along Ottawa Beach Road is proposed to be improved and set back from the roadway.

Lake Michigan beach frontage would remain undeveloped with management coordinated through the state park. Many of the park parcels located in close proximity to historic cottages would remain unimproved and not promoted for public use.

There are currently three areas that are open to the public: Black Lake Boardwalk, Mt. Pisgah and the Lake Michigan Beach. Details of each are below.

Black Lake Boardwalk

This small park offers a fishing dock on Lake Macatawa (formerly known as Black Lake). Future plans call for trails linking this park with other areas along the lake.

Park Map - This printable map shows facilities, parking areas, features and trails (if any).

Facilities

• Parking Lot (2 hour limit)
• Picnic tables
• Canoe/kayak access
• Access to Mt. Pisgah

Fees

There are no entry fees (2 hour limit in parking lot).

Dog Policy

Dogs are permitted at Black Lake Boardwalk East from October 1 through April 30 and at Black Lake Boardwalk West year-round. For the safety and enjoyment of all park guests, pets must be on ten foot leashes and under control. Owners must clean up after their pet and dispose of waste in a trash receptacle. Leader dogs for persons with disabilities are permitted at any time. Recognizing that most dogs enjoy running and playing freely, many Ottawa County Open Space Lands allow dogs year-round off leash.

Directions

Black Lake Boardwalk is located in Park Township. It is located on Black Lake Avenue just off Ottawa Beach Road near the Coast Guard Station.

Mt. Pisgah

Mt. Pisgah is a large parabolic dune that offers a panoramic view of Lake Michigan, Lake Macatawa and surrounding woods. A wood stairway provides access to the top where visitors will find viewing platforms and connections to Holland State Park trails.

Facilities

• Parking available at Black Lake Boardwalk (2 hour limit)
• Hiking trails
• Interpretive signs

Fees

There are no entry fees (2 hour limit in parking lot).

Dog Policy

Due to the narrow paths, stairways, boardwalks and trails, dogs are not allowed at Mt. Pisgah. Dog policies vary from park to park, so please check each park's webpage carefully for rules. Leader dogs for persons with disabilities are permitted Ottawa County Open Space Lands allow dogs off leash to run and play freely, so be sure to read about these sites as well.

Directions

Park at the Black Lake Boardwalk parking lot in Park Township. It is located on Black Lake Avenue just off Ottawa Beach Road near the Coast Guard Station.

Lake Michigan Beach

This park includes over 750 feet of Lake Michigan beach adjacent to the beach at Holland State Park.

Facilities

• No Facilities on beach

Park Hours & Fees

Holland State Park hours, fees, rules and regulations apply.

Directions

Accessed through Holland State Park located at the west end of Ottawa Beach Road.

Parks Administration Office

General Park Hours*

March 1 - October 15
7:00am - 10:00pm
October 16 - February 28
7:00am - 8:00pm

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