Yankee Springs Township offers nature, community and lakeside living
Yankee Springs Township is in the heart of Barry County, about 30 miles south of Grand Rapids. Nestled among lakes, forests and nature trails, the community is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and for those seeking waterfront living. Yankee Springs Recreation Area takes up a significant portion of the township, providing waterfront views and year-round activities. “I look out at acres of water and see trees, woods, wildlife and sunset every day,” says Kay Stolsonburg, Yankee Springs native and managing broker at Bellabay Realty with over 35 years of experience. “The water changes every day, and I can’t think of a better place to live. We are also a close-knit community, but we are not a closed community. Anyone who moves here will be welcomed.” With lakefront homes, wooded neighborhoods and a peaceful setting, the community is an ideal location for both seasonal retreats and full-time living. The area's CAP Index score is a 1 out of 10, which is below the national average of 4.
Housing in Yankee Springs features lakeside charm and spacious lots
With lakes and waterways dotting the landscape, Yankee Springs has many waterfront homes. Houses were built throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, featuring a diverse range of cottages, cabins, two-story houses and New Traditional properties. Lot sizes can vary, but most are around a quarter-acre, with open lawns, gardens, decks and private boat ramps. “You are more likely to find homes on water than not,” Stolsonburg says. “And home prices are significantly higher because of the proximity to water.” Single-family homes start out at around $300,000 and go up to approximately $700,000. Larger houses on Gun Lake can sell between $750,000 and $1.7 million. Stolsonburg also said the township does not have flooding issues, and that there is public sewer service, but residents keep their own well water. Stand-alone condos go from approximately $150,000 to $500,000, and waterfront manufactured houses are between $250,000 and $400,000.
Parks and lakes are steps away in Yankee Springs Township
With nine lakes and miles of trails, Yankee Springs Recreation Area features over 5,000 acres of nature terrain and is the area’s main outdoor destination. For water recreation, Gun Lake, the recreation area’s largest lake, has several swimming beaches and a boat launch. The park also features camp and picnic areas, as well as trails like the North Country Trail for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking. When winter comes, locals can go snowshoeing and cross-country skiing along the trails. “I can take my paddleboard or kayak and get in my car, and I’m about five minutes away from at least four lakes,” Stolsonburg says. “Most of the lakes are public, and residents will often buy an annual Michigan Recreation Passport, which gives access to all Michigan state parks, and vehicles get a parking sticker so they can park on state land.” Nearby, Yankee Springs Township Park offers play areas and sports amenities. The 27-hole course at Yankee Springs Golf Course is open to the public.
Public schools that service the township
The township is served by several public school districts, including Thornapple Kellogg Schools, Delton Kellogg Schools and Wayland Union Schools. Those attending Thornapple Kellogg may start out at McFall Elementary School, which covers prekindergarten through first grade and earns a B grade from Niche. Lee Elementary School gets an A-minus and serves grades two and three. Page Elementary School, which teaches fourth and fifth grades, and Thornapple Kellogg Middle School both rate B-pluses. Thornapple Kellogg High School gets a B, offering sports programs in cross country, swimming, football, tennis and golf. About 30 miles north, Grand Rapids is home to many higher education institutes, including Grand Rapids Community College and Grand Valley State University.
Shopping and dining options around Gun Lake
Several restaurants line around Gun Lake, including Russo’s Pizzeria, which has several locations in the region. Judd's Bar and Grille offers classic American fare and live music on Saturday nights, while Sand Bar and Grill has traditional pub food. Town & Country Supermarket, Tom’s Meat Market and Dollar General cover groceries and daily essentials. Grand Rapids, the region’s retail hub, is about 30 miles away, offering more shopping, dining and entertainment options.
Distance to Grand Rapids and Hastings
U.S. Route 131 passes near the community, which lets commuters access Grand Rapids. Gerald R. Ford International Airport is about 20 miles north via Michigan Route 37. Corewell Health Pennock Hospital Emergency is approximately 10 miles east in Hastings.
Community festivities that celebrate local spirit
Many community events take place at Yankee Springs Recreation Area. In the summer, there are recreational programs for hiking, wildlife viewing and fishing. The Gun Lake Winterfest includes an ice fishing contest, rolley rides, a pancake breakfast and live entertainment.
