Greens Lake (Michigan) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Greens Lake |
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 Greens Lake
Location in Michigan
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| Location | Oakland County, Michigan |
| Coordinates | 42°42′53″N 83°25′25″W / 42.714739°N 83.423697°W |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface area | 117 acres (47 ha) |
| Max. depth | 55 ft (17 m) |
| Surface elevation | 293 meters (961 ft) |
| Settlements | Independence Township |
Greens Lake is a cool, private lake in Michigan. It's a great spot for all kinds of water sports! This lake covers about 117 acres and is located in Independence Township, which is part of Oakland County. It's also connected to the main branch of the Clinton River.
The deepest part of Greens Lake is about 55 feet. That's like going down five stories! Greens Lake is linked to several other lakes. To the south, it connects with Lester Lake and Van Norman Lake. To the north, you can find Dollar Lake, Middle Lake, and Deer Lake connected to it.
How Greens Lake Got Its Name
Greens Lake is named after the Green family. They owned a large 200-acre farm right along the eastern side of the lake.
In 1832, John Green, born in 1794, and his wife Elinor, born in 1802, moved to Michigan. They came from Warren County, New Jersey with their ten children. The family settled on their farm in Independence Township.
After John Green passed away in 1851, his son Daniel Green took over the farm. Daniel, born in 1828, and his wife Julia, born in 1826, continued to live and work on the family land. Their farm was located on Waterford Hill in Independence Township.
The lake was first called "Green's Lake" because of the family. Over time, the name changed slightly to "Greens Lake," without the apostrophe.
Bay Court Park: Fun by the Lake
On the south shore of Greens Lake, you'll find Bay Court Park. This park is managed by Independence Township. It has lots of fun things to do for families and friends.
The park features a sandy beach where you can relax or play. There's also a playscape for younger kids to enjoy. If you like disc golf, there's a 9-hole course. You can also find picnic pavilions for outdoor meals. A banquet and meeting facility and a gazebo are available for events.
History of Bay Court Park
Before it became a township park, Bay Court Park was a camp. From 1921 to 1946, the Boy Scouts used the area as Camp Brady. They camped on Greens Lake and also across the street on Lester Lake.
In 1946, the camp was sold to the United Way. It was then used as a camp for mothers and children until 1972. The Detroit Public Schools also used the camp. They brought children who needed extra support to enjoy the outdoors.
Finally, in 1988, Independence Township bought the camp. They turned it into the public park we know today as Bay Court Park.
