The proposed Deerlick Creek Beach is located at the west end of 13th Avenue in South Haven Township, Van Buren County, Michigan. The site is 2.1 acres and contains two parcels with 172 feet of Lake Michigan frontage. Deerlick Creek, a designated trout and smelt dipping stream, runs from the north along the east edge of the property under the road right of way and along the south edge of the site approximately 700 feet until it empties into Lake Michigan. On the north edge of the property is rock jetty and a fence separating a new housing development. About 0.82 acres of wetland are on the site, a large stand of deciduous trees, and a sandy/rocky beach. There are no improvements on the site except for the 13th Avenue road end with a paved/gravel parking area and a guardrail. The parking area affords a beautiful view of the Lake, creek and wetlands.

The 13th Avenue /Deerlick Creek road end is the most used, no-fee and easily accessible Lake Michigan access for miles. The site is gently sloping and allows for easy viewing of Lake Michigan from the vehicle; additionally the gentle slope allows for those with physical challenges or small children to access the beach and Lake Michigan. The gentle slope will allow for a handicap accessible ramp to be built when the park is developed.

The 13th Avenue/Deerlick Creek road end has been used by several generations and holds a special place in many people’s hearts and memories from near and far. The Township had believed that the road end was a public park and identifies it as such in several documents. The previous landowner allowed the public to use the site for recreational uses and even sold nearby properties with the claim of Lake Michigan access at the end of the road. However, this landowner has passed away and in August 2004, a developer purchased the site along with additional acreage. The developer proposed to build 10 houses on the 10 acres and provide extremely limited access to the Lake for area residents. After discussions with the Township Board, the developer and another landowner have indicated willingness to sell land to the Township for a public park. The Van Buren County Road Commission has resolved to relinquish their title and interest in the road right-of-way for the use and construction of a Township Park (see resolution); however, if the Township is not able to acquire the property, the right-of-way will not be abandoned to prevent the loss of public access. South Haven Charter Township has partnered with the Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy to raise funds to acquire Deerlick Creek Beach.