Lake with whispy clouds

Gun Lake Vacation Rentals

Swim the clear, cool water with your family at Gun Lake near the trails of Yankee Springs Recreation Area.

Southwest Michigan's Premier All-Sports Lake

Newest

Luxury rentals

Family-friendly

Swimming

Why Rent On Gun Lake

Gun Lake in Barry County covers 2,800 acres and has earned a devoted following among families, anglers, and water sports enthusiasts from across the Great Lakes region. This all-sports lake offers excellent fishing, boating, water skiing, tubing, sailing, and swimming in water that is genuinely beautiful. A lakefront vacation rental or lakehouse on Gun Lake places you at the center of one of southwest Michigan’s best outdoor destinations.

On the Water and in the Yankee Springs Forest

The adjacent Yankee Springs State Recreation Area adds miles of hiking, biking, and horse trails, plus public hunting and spring and fall mushrooming that local families love. The combination of water sports and forest recreation gives Gun Lake a range of activities that keeps guests engaged for a full week without redundancy.

Gun Lake Casino and Golf Courses Nearby

The Gun Lake Casino, a premier gaming and entertainment destination, features state-of-the-art slot machines, table games, a sportsbook, and high-quality dining for adults in the group who want an evening out. Well-maintained golf courses with scenic fairways serve those looking for a different kind of outdoor pursuit. For families with kids, the lake’s beaches and picnic areas are consistent daily favorites.

Why a Rental on Gun Lake Is Worth It

Vacation lakehouses and cabins on Gun Lake comfortably sleep groups of all sizes, with private docks, beautiful lake views, full kitchens, hot tubs, and outdoor spaces built for entertaining. Many listings are pet-friendly. Few all-sports lakes in southwest Michigan can match the combination of water quality, surrounding recreation, and the kind of cozy lakeside atmosphere that makes families return summer after summer.

Best time to go
Visit Gun Lake from late April through early June, when the soft sun ignites blooming wildflowers and the waters shimmer invitingly. Perfect for fishing, kayaking, and leisurely picnics, this tranquil period boasts fewer tourists and the serene whispers of nature.
Water Quality
Gun Lake in Michigan is renowned for its deep blue waters, offering crystal-clear clarity that enhances its pristine appearance.
Surface area (mi)
6.71
Max depth (ft)
66.99
Elevation (ft)
744.75
Shoreline length (mi)
17.65

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Fly Fishing
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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Gun Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, it is generally safe to swim in Gun Lake. The water is clear and pure, and recent water quality samples did not exceed most of the British Columbia drinking water guidelines, although there were some issues with phosphate and copper levels.

  • Gun Lake is a popular destination because it is an All Sports Lake with 2680 acres, great for boating, fishing, water skiing, and other recreational activities. It also offers surrounding hiking and biking trails, a state park, and camping facilities, making it ideal for various outdoor activities.

  • The size and bag limits for fishing in Gun Lake, Michigan, are governed by Michigan’s general fishing regulations. For example, the daily possession limit for Walleye is 8 with a 13″ minimum size limit, and this applies year-round. Always check the Michigan Fishing website or free fishing guides for the most up-to-date information.

  • The best beach at Gun Lake for families is Gun Lake County Park. This day park has over 450 feet of beach, a playground, public restrooms, and grills. It also offers a boat launch and swimming areas with sandy bottoms, making it suitable for family activities.

  • Towns near Gun Lake include Plainwell, Pullman, Saugatuck, and Shelbyville, all located in Allegan County. These towns are close to the lake and offer various amenities and services. Shelbyville is particularly notable as it hosts the Gun Lake Manufactured Home Community and is near other attractions like Gun Lake Casino and Yankee Springs State Recreation Area.