Idlewild and Lake County offer a variety of activities. Enjoy outdoor adventures like biking, hiking, fishing, and exploring the scenic landscapes of the area. Take a leisurely stroll through museums that showcase the rich, storied history of the region, including Idlewild’s black cultural significance.
Visit local gift shops for unique souvenirs, artwork and unwind at cozy cafe offering a relaxed atmosphere. With a range of dining options, local attractions, and plenty of opportunities for recreation, there’s always something to see and do in this beautiful, historic area.
Water Sports
Idlewild Lake is an all-sports lake, perfect for activities like jet skiing, boating, water skiing, wakeboarding, stand-up paddleboarding, and more.
Baldwin Canoe Rental
(~5 miles)
Canoe, kayak, raft, & tube rentals on the Pere Marquette National Scenic River.
(231) 745-4669
Pine River Paddlesports Center
9590 S. Grandview Highway S 37
Wellston, MI 49689
(231) 862-3471
Hunting
Information, permits and licenses can be obtained at the offices below as well as at many local stores and service stations.
Please check with the Michigan DNR to confirm all season dates and check for any changes:
Manistee National Forest
Field Office
(231) 745-4631
Michigan Department of Recreation Field Office
(231) 745-4651
Fishing
Lake County is a fisherman’s paradise, offering abundant fishing opportunities and expert resources. Visit local shops for a wide selection of bait and tackle, along with local fishing insights. You can also explore available Fishing Tour Guides to enhance your experience and discover the best fishing spots in the area.
Fishing Tour Guides
Baldwin, MI
(~3.5 miles)
Hiking
Hike trails that wind through beautiful forests, serene lakesides, and scenic vistas. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll or a challenging trek, the area offers hikes for every level of adventurer.
For information on hiking in Lake County, please visit:
Huron-Manistee National Forest
Michigan’s North Country Trail
National Park Service
North Country Scenic Trail Association
Dining
Lake County offers a variety of dining options, from cozy local diners to family-owned eateries serving up delicious, home-cooked meals. Whether you're craving fresh, locally sourced ingredients or classic comfort food, you'll find something to satisfy your appetite. Experience the warmth and hospitality of Lake County’s dining scene, where every meal is a taste of local flavor.
(~ 3.5 miles)
876 Michigan Ave.
Baldwin, MI 49304
(231) 791-5876
(~10 miles)
7143 S Depot St
Chase, MI 49623
(231) 832-8303
Sips and More
Idlewild is the home of Black Eden Brews coffee bar where you can start your day to enjoy a drink in a laid-back atmosphere. Open Saturday & Sunday.
Experience the charm of Idlewild and connect with the community in a cozy, friendly setting.
Black Eden Brews
Idlewild Coffee Bar
6389 Tacoma St
Idlewild, MI 49642
(231) 880-6604
Museums & Gifts
Visitors can explore unique shops offering handmade jewelry, local crafts, and souvenirs, while museums provide a deeper dive into the area’s storied history, where African American culture, music, and community thrived during segregation, making it a landmark of cultural significance history.
Morton's Motel
(Closed for season- will open on Memorial Day weekend for the 2025 season)
6389 Tacoma St
Idlewild, MI 49642
(231) 745-7773
Black Eden Brews
Idlewild Coffee Bar
6389 Tacoma St
Idlewild, MI 49642
(313) 880-6604
Idlewild Historic
Cultural Center & Gift Shop
(Museum is open Saturdays, Memorial Weekend to Labor Day Weekend 10:00 - 5:00)
(~2 miles)
7025 S Broadway St
Idlewild, MI 49642
Horseback & Trail Riding
From amazing horseback rides through the scenic unique and off-road experience head to Silver Lake Sand Dunes, the only place in Michigan you can drive the dunes. Or get rugged on the ORV trails.
Wolf Lake Ranch Resort Inc
3640 Wolf Lake Dr, Baldwin, MI 49304
Phone: (231) 745-3890
We have several ORV trails around Idlewild and Lake County, please see below for details:
Groceries & Essentials
Lake County offers a variety of grocery stores, where you can find fresh produce, local products, and everyday essentials. Whether you're stocking up for your stay or looking for specific items, these stores make it easy to get everything you need during your visit.
Houseman's Food
(~5 miles)
9559 S M 37
Baldwin, MI 49304
(231) 745-2761
Meijer
(~30 miles)
15400 Waldron Way
Big Rapids, MI 49307
(231) 527-0200
The Tiki Hut in Chase, MI Local Farmer's Market May - October
Pure Markette Wednesday local farmer's market: June - September
Medical
Whether you need urgent care or prescription refills, the area offers reliable medical services and pharmacies for your convenience.
Pattie Drug
(~3 miles)
868 Michigan Ave
Baldwin, MI 49304
(231) 745-4697
Corewell Health Reed City Hospital- 24 Hours
(~19 miles)
300 N Patterson Rd,
Reed City, MI 49677
(231) 832-3271