Big Platte Lake

Located in Benzie County, Michigan

Big Platte Lake is a 2,516-acre all-sports lake located in Benzie County, MI. It is around 45 minutes east of Traverse City, MI, and about 4 hours northeast of Detroit, MI. The name of Benzie County is derived from the French name for the nearby Betsie River: la rivière aux Bec-scies, “the river of sawbills.” Cherry Capital Airport is located in Traverse City, MI, and Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital is less than 20 minutes south in Frankfort, MI.

What’s There to Do On the Water?

Big Platte is an excellent angling lake! Fishing reports have indicated there are walleye, chinook salmon, hybrid striped bass, brown and rainbow trout, rock bass, yellow perch, and eight more types of fish. There is a public boat launch available in the northeastern corner of the lake. Residents love all kinds of water sports on this lake, such as tubing, wakeboarding, water skiing, swimming, and more.

What’s Near Big Platte Lake?

Crystal Lake is another excellent choice for freshwater fun. Anglers should expect to find trout, bass, yellow perch, and salmon. There is a public boat ramp available for watersports enthusiasts. The crystal clear water makes it a choice location for swimming. Only 30 minutes away is the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This park is a popular place to soak in the scenic views of Lake Michigan. Visitors also enjoy hiking and kayaking in Lake Michigan. There are numerous trails and campgrounds in rural areas along the Lake Michigan coastline! The closest are the Bokeloo Trail, the Old Indian Trail, Empire Township Campground, and the Empire Bluff Trail. In Traverse City, you will find the National Cherry Festival. The festival is a point of pride for Traverse City. This large annual event features over 150 events like competitions, rides, lots of desserts, and more!

Why Big Platte Lake?

If you’re looking for a location with year-round fun and fantastic amenities, then you’ve found a perfect match in Big Platte Lake!