Recreation & Public Areas

Discover recreational facilities and public spaces available to Colfax Township residents and visitors.

School Section Lake Beach

Colfax Township's premier recreational facility featuring a beautiful public beach on School Section Lake.

Making the Beach User Friendly

Colfax Township was awarded a grant from the Oceana County Community Foundation to improve the picnic area at the public beach access. This included pouring concrete to make access easier for those with mobility difficulties, 2 new picnic tables and a new grill. We would like to thank the Foundation for helping to make the beach more attractive and ADA compliant.

Come down and take a look, have a picnic, or grill some burgers and dogs!

Beach Features

🏖️ Public Beach Access

Beautiful sandy beach on School Section Lake with public access for swimming and relaxation.

♿ ADA Accessible Facilities

Concrete pathways and accessible facilities to ensure everyone can enjoy the beach area.

🍔 Picnic Area

Two new picnic tables and a grill available for public use. Perfect for family gatherings and events.

🅿️ Parking

Convenient parking area near the beach access point.

📚 Little Free Library

A little free library made possible thanks to support from the School Section Lake Association. "Borrowers" are encouraged to take a book, leave a book, to keep the library robust and constantly updating.

Beach Information

  • Open: Dawn to dusk, year-round
  • Cost: Free for public use
  • Facilities: Picnic tables, grill, accessible pathways
  • Activities: Swimming, picnicking, fishing, relaxing
  • Parking: Available on-site

Please Note: The public boat launch is not run by the township. The boat launch is controlled by Oceana County. For boat launch information and regulations, please contact the county.

Recreation Guidelines

To ensure everyone can enjoy our public spaces, please follow these guidelines:

General Guidelines

  • Respect other visitors and maintain a family-friendly environment
  • Pack out what you pack in - keep our areas clean
  • No glass containers near water areas
  • Pets must be leashed and owners must clean up after them
  • No camping or overnight stays
  • Use of facilities is at your own risk

Safety Information

  • No lifeguard on duty - swim at your own risk
  • Parents/guardians must supervise children at all times
  • Be aware of water conditions and weather
  • Emergency services: Call 911
  • Report any facility damage or safety concerns to the township

Seasonal Information

🌞 Summer (June - August)

Peak season for beach activities. Swimming, picnicking, and grilling are most popular during these months.

  • Busiest times: weekends and holidays
  • Water temperatures typically warmest

🍂 Fall (September - November)

Beautiful season for scenic visits and peaceful relaxation. Great for fishing and photography.

  • Stunning fall foliage around the lake
  • Cooler temperatures, less crowded
  • Good fishing season

❄️ Winter (December - February)

Winter activities and peaceful lake views. Beach facilities remain accessible.

  • Lake may freeze for winter activities
  • Peaceful winter scenery

🌸 Spring (March - May)

Great time for nature walks and preparing for summer activities.

  • Wildlife viewing opportunities
  • Mild weather for outdoor activities