Palms Book State Park, located at the north end of Indian Lake in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, is home to Kitch-iti-kipi or "The Big Spring." The self-propelled observation raft is open 8 a.m. to dusk. Concessions and souvenirs are available at the park store open seasonally.
This renowned natural attraction is Michigan's largest freshwater spring with more than 10,000 gallons of water per minutes gushing through fissures in the underlying limestone at a constant 45 degrees Fahrenheit. By means of a self-guided (accessible) observation raft, visitors can view this crystal-clear pool with an emerald green bottom. For those looking for trails, Indian Lake Pathway is just a short drive away.
The park is located 7 miles northwest of Indian Lake State Park in Manistique, along the northern terminus of M-149. Look for wayfinding signage that refers to Palms Book or "The Big Spring."
View Under the Radar's feature on the park »
The observation raft is open 8 a.m. to dusk. Swimming, bathing, skin diving, scuba diving, fishing, boating, and the launching or placing of any objects (including underwater cameras) in The Big Spring are prohibited. The raft is for viewing purposes only.
By means of a self-guided observation raft, visitors can view Kitch-iti-kipi or the “Big Spring.” Ancient tree trunks, lime-encrusted branches and lake trout can be seen through crystal-clear waters far below. Clouds of sand kept in constant motion by gushing waters create ever-changing shapes and forms. The self-guided observation raft is accessible.
It’s prohibited to swim, bathe, scuba dive, fish, boat, enter or place/launch any object (including underwater cameras) in the “Big Spring” or use the observation raft for anything other than viewing. Drones are prohibited over the raft.
There is a boating access site that accesses Indian Lake. The site is within the park boundaries but must be accessed from Fishing Site Road (not inside the main entrance) in the northeast section of the park.
The Big Springs Souvenir Shop sells T-shirts, sweatshirts, ice cream, snacks and more.
From the park’s boating access site (located off Fishing Site Road), you can access Indian Lake. It offers fishing for a variety of species, including perch, walleye, northern pike, muskellunge, rock bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill, sturgeon and brown trout.
Hunting is allowed in the state park; however, you should call this park directly to inquire about any special rules, concerns or considerations.
The picnic area includes picnic tables and charcoal grills that are available first come, first served.
There is a swing set adjacent to the parking lot.
Kitch-iti-kipi or the “Big Spring,” located within the park, is Michigan's largest natural freshwater spring. Indian Lake is located in the northeast section of the park and can be accessed from Fishing Site Road (not inside the main entrance).
While there aren't any upcoming park events listed at this time, you can check out the DNR's calendar of events.
The park also offers weekly nature programs not listed in the online calendar.
