Kalamazoo River

Located in Allegan County, Michigan

Stretching a total of 130 miles in its entirety, the Kalamazoo River connects Kalamazoo Lake to Lake Michigan. It is located about 45 miles south of Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Holland Hospital is located 10 miles from the river and provides 24-hour care. Gerald R. Ford International Airport, located in Grand Rapids, is less than an hour’s drive away.

Life on the Water

Enjoy activities on the water like fishing, swimming, or boating. Fishermen can expect to find a variety of species in the river including northern pike, walleye, flathead catfish, carp, brown trout, catfish, rock bass, bluegill, steelhead trout, coho salmon, panfish, smallmouth bass, and largemouth bass.

Things to Do

There are many attractions around the Holland region of the river. Known as the “Big Red Lighthouse,” the Holland Harbor Lighthouse is an iconic Michigan landmark. It is located at the start of a channel connecting Lake Michigan with Lake Macatawa. This is the best place in the area to watch the sun go down and enjoy the iconic Lake Michigan dunes.

Windmill Island Gardens is a perfect destination for families. It is a seasonal park with vibrant tulip gardens, an old windmill, a carousel, and guides acting as Dutch settlers to teach Holland’s unique history.

Be sure to check out downtown Holland for a wide array of restaurants, including Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant, The City Delicatessen, and Butch’s Dry Dock.

For the Nature Lover

After spending some time on the water, if you want to explore nature and experience Lake Michigan, the third-largest lake in the country, Mount Baldhead Park and Saugatuck Dunes State Park offer opportunities to do so. Located close to the Kalamazoo River, these parks offer opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, or simply meandering around to enjoy the stunning scenery.

Experience Kalamazoo River

Kalamazoo River is the perfect destination to experience beautiful views, calming water, and the quintessential Michigan experience.