Burling Park-Dowagiac, Michigan

The City of Dowagiac developed a new public park along Riverside Drive at the Lower Mill Pond Dam that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational amenities, designed to provide a peaceful escape for residents and visitors alike.

Burling Park, named for city council member Dr. Charles Burling, features a spacious, 5,000-sf bi-level fishing and viewing deck with ample seating and lighting, perfect for taking in the picturesque vistas, casting a line for trout and salmon, or photographing the red and gold hues of fall. The stunning wood overlook soars 17 feet above the meandering Dowagiac Creek and complements the nearby stately trees and native landscaping.

The park offers paved parking facilities, ADA accessibility, recycling bins, bicycle rack, and stone steps that allow for the launching of kayaks into the clear waterway. The park also serves as trailhead for Elk’s Trail and will allow for future development of the trail.

Burling Park is more than just an overlook and fishing platform; it's a place for the community to gather and connect with nature. It’s also a haven for relaxation and recreation, offering a slice of nature within the city limits.