Be sure to visit Baw Beese Lake when you’re visiting Hillsdale!

Baw Beese Lake is fabulous for boating, fishing, and swimming with access to Sandy Beach, Owen Memorial Park and Waterworks Park along Waterworks Drive. The lake is 414 acres in size. It is approximately 70 feet deep at its deepest point. When fishing, anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish including Bluegill, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Rock Bass, Walleye and Yellow Perch.

The Lake was named after Baw Beese, a Potawatomi chief who had his base camp here. With its calm, clear waters, the lake offers a perfect spot for swimming, kayaking and boating. With picnic tables, grills, and scenic trails nearby, the lake is an ideal outdoor attraction for a fun day out.

Sandy Beach is a public park on the Eastern shore of the lake. Many local residents learned to swim as children here. The park boasts a beautiful beach area, volleyball courts, basketball court and a new play area. Just off the Baw Beese Trail, Sandy Beach is a great cycling destination as well.  The renovated concession stand offers ice cream, slushies, hotdogs, and cold drinks.

Owen Memorial Park offers beautiful views of the lake. There’s also lake access for boating and fishing, easy access to the Baw Beese Trail, disc golf, and play areas.

Waterworks Park enjoys views of the lake and a play area.

Learn more about the lake: