Long Lake Outdoor Center aerial view in autumn
Historic CCC Property

Long Lake Outdoor Center

Yankee Springs, Michigan
Book Your Stay
120
Capacity
16
Cabins
4
Bunkhouses
1939
Est.

About Long Lake Outdoor Center

Nestled within the Yankee Springs Recreation Area in Barry County, Michigan, Long Lake Outdoor Center is a historic retreat built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1939. Listed on the National Registry of Historic Sites, the property preserves the craftsmanship of Depression-era conservation workers while offering modern amenities for groups of all sizes.

With a total capacity of 120 people, the center features 16 cabins divided between scenic Hill Cabins and waterfront Lake Cabins, four distinctive bunkhouses, and a grand lodge that seats 120. A commercial kitchen supports catering and group meals, making Long Lake a self-contained destination for multi-day events.

Long Lake operates as a year-round facility. Spring and summer bring lake swimming, fishing, and hiking, while fall showcases Michigan's legendary color. In winter, the grounds transform for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fireside gatherings in the lodge.

A Legacy of the CCC

The Civilian Conservation Corps constructed Long Lake Outdoor Center in 1939 as part of Franklin Roosevelt's New Deal. Young men enrolled in the CCC built the cabins, lodge, and bathhouse using native stone and timber harvested from the surrounding forest. The property's enduring craftsmanship earned it a place on the National Registry of Historic Sites — a testament to the skill and dedication of the workers who shaped it nearly a century ago.

Amenities

  • Private Lake Access
  • Dock & Waterfront
  • 120-Seat Lodge
  • Commercial Kitchen
  • 2 Stone Fireplaces
  • 16 Cabins
  • 4 Bunkhouses
  • Year-Round Facility
  • ADA Accessible

Plan Your Event

From weddings to group camps, Long Lake Outdoor Center is the perfect setting for your next gathering.

Check Availability

Lodging

16 cabins and 4 bunkhouses accommodate up to 120 guests in a range of historic, CCC-built structures.

Hill Cabins at Long Lake Outdoor Center

Hill Cabins

Perched on a wooded hillside above the lake, the Hill Cabins offer a shaded, secluded setting with easy access to the lodge and communal areas. Built with CCC-era stone and timber construction.

Lake Cabins at Long Lake Outdoor Center

Lake Cabins

Situated along the waterfront, the Lake Cabins provide direct views of Long Lake and quick access to the dock, swimming area, and waterfront activities.

Bunkhouses

Stage House

Sleeps 8

Cozy bunkhouse ideal for small groups, with open sleeping quarters and easy access to the lodge and lake.

Road House

Sleeps 12

Mid-size bunkhouse perfect for scout troops, youth groups, or extended families looking for shared accommodations.

Infirmary

Sleeps 10

Features its own private bathroom, making it a great choice for families or groups needing additional comfort and convenience.

Private bathroom

Mansion House

Sleeps 20

The largest bunkhouse on the property, featuring a charming fireplace and room for big groups. Ideal for reunions and large parties.

Fireplace
The Lodge at Long Lake Outdoor Center

The Lodge

The centerpiece of Long Lake Outdoor Center, the Lodge seats 120 in a grand great room anchored by two massive stone fireplaces. Original CCC stonework and exposed timber beams give the space a warm, rustic character that makes every gathering feel special.

A full commercial kitchen adjoins the great room, supporting catered meals, potluck dinners, and self-service group cooking. Whether you're hosting a wedding reception, a corporate retreat, or a camp-wide meal, the Lodge provides the space and atmosphere to bring people together.

120
Seats
2
Stone Fireplaces
Full
Commercial Kitchen

Weddings & Events

Long Lake Outdoor Center is one of Michigan's most unique event venues — a historic lakeside property with lodging, dining, and ceremony spaces all in one place.

Wedding ceremony at Long Lake Outdoor Center

Wedding Package

$2,800 for 2-night rental

Exchange vows on the lakefront or beneath the trees, then celebrate in the 120-seat lodge with its stone fireplaces and rustic charm. The 2-night rental includes exclusive use of the entire property — cabins, bunkhouses, lodge, kitchen, and grounds — so your guests can stay on-site for a true destination wedding.

Download the wedding packet for full details on ceremony locations, catering options, and rental inclusions.

Weddings

$2,800 for a 2-night rental. Ceremony and reception spaces with lakeside views, historic lodge, and full catering kitchen.

Group Camps

Accommodate up to 120 guests across cabins and bunkhouses. Perfect for scout troops, church groups, and outdoor education programs.

Retreats

A secluded, historic setting for corporate retreats, team-building events, and wellness getaways surrounded by nature.

Family Reunions

Bring the whole family together in a lakeside setting with plenty of room, shared meals in the lodge, and outdoor activities for all ages.

Photo Gallery

Aerial view of Long Lake Outdoor Center in fall
The historic lodge at Long Lake
CCC-built cabins at Long Lake
Long Lake waterfront
Wedding ceremony at Long Lake
Dock on Long Lake
Commercial kitchen in the lodge
Lodge interior with stone fireplace
Grounds and pathways at Long Lake
Historic bathhouse
Biking trails near Long Lake
Long Lake Outdoor Center in winter

Host Your Next Event at Long Lake

A historic CCC property with private lake access, lodging for 120, and year-round availability. Start planning your wedding, retreat, or group camp today.