Reeds Lake facts for kids

Reeds Lake is a freshwater lake located in East Grand Rapids, Michigan, in the United States. It's a special place for the community and is surrounded by homes, parks, and businesses. Long ago, in the early 1900s, it was home to a fun amusement park and resort. Today, people enjoy events like the Reeds Lake Triathlon in September and the Reeds Lake Run in June. There's also a paved path around the lake that is about 4.2 miles (6.8 km) long, perfect for walking or biking!

Quick facts for kids Reeds Lake
Reeds Lake Location in Michigan
Location	East Grand Rapids, Michigan
Coordinates	42°57′N 85°36′W / 42.95°N 85.60°W / 42.95; -85.60
Primary outflows	Dredged channel to Fisk Lake
Basin countries	United States
Surface area	265 acres (1.1 km2)
Max. depth	52 ft (16 m)
Surface elevation	732 feet (223 m)
Settlements	East Grand Rapids, Michigan

What Makes Reeds Lake Special?

Reeds Lake covers an area of 265 acres (1.07 km²). It is 52 feet (16 m) deep at its deepest point. The lake sits 732 feet (223 m) above sea level. Water flows into the lake from the surrounding land. Its water then flows out into Fisk Lake. Long ago, a natural stream connected the two lakes. This stream was later made deeper and wider.

Animals and Plants in Reeds Lake

Reeds Lake is home to many different animals. You might spot a great blue heron looking for fish. Many types of ducks and geese also live here. These include Canada geese, trumpeter swans, and mallards. Other water birds like coots and gulls are also common. Sometimes, you might even see a bald eagle hunting for food!

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources helps keep the lake healthy. They add different kinds of fish to the lake. These fish include northern pike and largemouth bass. People enjoy fishing in Reeds Lake all year long. You can fish from piers, the shore, or from boats when it's warm. In winter, people go ice fishing on the frozen lake.

Fun Places Around Reeds Lake

There are several public parks and facilities around Reeds Lake where you can have fun.

John Collins Park

John Collins Park is on the west side of the lake. It is named after a former mayor of the city. This park has a public boat launch. It is open during the day for anyone to use. The park also has a private boathouse for the East Grand Rapids High School rowing team. You can find paths that are easy for wheelchairs, restrooms, and decks for fishing or just watching the lake.

Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park is on the northwest side of Reeds Lake. It was built in the early 2000s. This park has 11 acres of natural woods and wetlands. It also has piers that go out into the lake for fishing or viewing. You can walk on both paved and unpaved paths here.

City Facilities and Businesses

On the southwest side of the lake, you'll find several city buildings. These include East Grand Rapids Middle School, the City Hall, and the Public Library. There's also the East Grand Rapids Community Center. If you have a canoe or kayak, there's a public launch behind City Hall.

Some private businesses are also located near the west end of the lake. These include the Grand Rapids Yacht Club and Rose's restaurant. There are also two small private marinas where boats can be docked.

History of Reeds Lake

Reeds Lake has been a popular spot for a long time. By the 1870s, people from Grand Rapids and nearby towns would often visit for a day trip.

Ramona Park Amusement Park

One of the most famous attractions was Ramona Park. This was an amusement park that operated from 1897 to 1955. The Grand Rapids Street Railway Company owned it. They even had a special train service that brought people from Grand Rapids right to the park! A passenger boat named Ramona would take people on rides around the lake.

In the early 1900s, there was also a resort called Point Paulo on Reeds Lake. Many famous performers from Vaudeville (a type of live entertainment) loved visiting Reeds Lake. They especially enjoyed performing at the Ramona Theatre, which was part of Ramona Park.