Bankson Lake sits in the greater Paw Paw River watershed in Van Buren County. Several other lakes including Gravel Lake are in the immediate area, though Bankson Lake is not part of a connected chain.
At 42 feet max depth and 217 acres, Bankson Lake freezes reliably in a typical Michigan winter. Ice fishing for crappie and perch is a reasonable bet given the lake's warm-water fishery. Always check current ice conditions before heading out.
How big is Bankson Lake?
Is there a public boat launch on Bankson Lake?
Can you swim in Bankson Lake?
Are there campgrounds near Bankson Lake?
Is Bankson Lake busy on weekends?
Can you kayak or canoe on Bankson Lake?
Where is Bankson Lake?
Bankson Lake is a 217-acre all-sports lake just south of Lawton in Van Buren County, with a max depth of 42 feet. What makes it different from most southwest Michigan lakes is the shoreline — it's notably undeveloped, with two large camps (Miracle Camp and Retreat Center and a Girl Scout camp) occupying big stretches of waterfront. That gives the lake a quieter, more natural feel than you'd expect from an all-sports lake this close to Paw Paw and Kalamazoo.
Fishing is a consistent draw — reviewers report good catches of crappie, perch, and panfish, with shore fishing productive enough that kids can catch fish wading. The single public launch is a basic dirt ramp with limited parking and no dock, and water levels fluctuate enough that the concrete slab has been submerged at times. Arrive early on summer weekends or you may not find a spot. Despite the rough launch, the lake itself rates well — clean water, good fishing, and a peaceful atmosphere that locals clearly love.