HARRISON TWP., MI
HARRISON TWP., MI
Harrison Township, MI: “Boat Town” living on Lake St. Clair with canals, marinas, and Metropark weekends.
HIGHLIGHTS
Harrison Township is a waterfront community in Macomb County along Lake St. Clair, known for its boating lifestyle, canal neighborhoods, and easy access to the water. Many locals describe it as the kind of place where summer feels like a season-long event: boats in the driveway, sunset cruises, and weekends that revolve around the lake.
Within the township, you’ll often hear residents refer to two well-known areas: Lakeside and Saint Clair Haven. Lakeside sits a few miles southeast of Mount Clemens near L’Anse Creuse Bay, while Saint Clair Haven is located along the shoreline near Campau Bay.
What Harrison Township is known for
1) A true Lake St. Clair boating lifestyle.
This is one of Metro Detroit’s most water-oriented communities. Between the lake, bays, canals, and marinas, boating is not just a hobby here, it’s part of daily life. Even residents who don’t own a boat often enjoy the atmosphere: waterfront views, boat traffic, and a strong “lake community” vibe.
2) Lakeside and Saint Clair Haven: two local identity hubs.
These areas are commonly referenced when people talk about living in Harrison Township, especially by buyers looking for that “close to the water” feel. The setting near L’Anse Creuse Bay and Campau Bay shapes the lifestyle with easy access to marinas, canal-front homes, and lake recreation.
3) Lake St. Clair Metropark (formerly Metro Beach).
One of the biggest quality-of-life perks is having a major regional park right in the community. Lake St. Clair Metropark is a go-to spot for families and anyone who loves being outdoors, with features like paved trails, a marina, beach access, an Olympic-sized pool with slides and a large spray ground, picnic areas, and a nature center that highlights local wetland habitats.
4) “You should probably consider a boat.”
It’s the running joke that’s also kind of true. Many people move to Harrison Township specifically because they want to be on or near the water. Even if you start without a boat, it’s common for residents to eventually lean into the lifestyle.
Living in Harrison Township: vibe, lifestyle, and who it fits best
Harrison Township tends to feel relaxed, outdoorsy, and water-centered. It’s often a great fit for people who want:
Lake life without being “up north”
A community where weekends are built around boating, beaches, and being outside
A mix of everyday convenience and vacation-style recreation
Neighborhoods where the water is part of the scenery, even inland (thanks to canals and marinas)
A family-friendly environment with park access and outdoor activities
If your idea of a perfect day includes a marina, a sunset view, or a beach bag in the trunk “just in case,” this township fits that lifestyle well.
Real estate and home styles in Harrison Township
Housing in Harrison Township is shaped by the water. You’ll often find:
Canal-front and lake-adjacent homes where boating access and dock potential matter
A mix of ranch-style homes, colonials, and updated mid-century layouts
Neighborhoods where the value is influenced by waterfront positioning, canal access, and lot location
Some condos and lower-maintenance options depending on the pocket
A helpful mindset for buyers: in Harrison Township, two homes with similar interiors can have very different appeal based on boat access, canal width, seawall condition, and how quickly you can get from your dock to open water.
Things to do: Metropark days, trails, beaches, and summer routines
Lake St. Clair Metropark is a major lifestyle anchor. Residents love it for:
Nature trails and a nature center (great for kids and anyone who likes birdwatching or learning about wetlands)
Playgrounds, picnic spaces, and big “family day” energy
Beach access and swimming
A large pool area with slides and a spray ground
Easy marina access for boating days
Beyond the park, a lot of Harrison Township life happens on the water: marinas, canal neighborhoods, weekend gatherings, and lake-adjacent social routines.
Getting around: commute and convenience
Harrison Township is close to Mount Clemens and other nearby hubs, making it practical for commuters while still feeling like a destination. Many residents like that they can run errands easily, access major corridors, and still come home to a setting that feels like a lake community.
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Harrison Township, MI
Is Harrison Township a good place to live?
It can be a great fit if you want lake life, boating culture, and outdoor recreation without being far from Metro Detroit conveniences. It’s especially appealing to people who want a “vacation feel” in their everyday routine.
What areas make up Harrison Township?
People often talk about Lakeside and Saint Clair Haven as key areas within the township, especially because of their proximity to Lake St. Clair and the bays.
Do I need a boat to live in Harrison Township?
You don’t need one, but a lot of residents eventually get one because the lifestyle makes it tempting. Even without a boat, you can still enjoy the parks, beaches, marinas, and waterfront atmosphere.
What is Lake St. Clair Metropark like?
It’s a major regional park with trails, a nature center, picnic areas, beach access, a marina, and a large pool/spray-ground area that’s especially popular in summer.
What kind of homes are common in Harrison Township?
A mix of ranches, colonials, and mid-century homes, plus canal-front and waterfront properties where boating access plays a big role in value and lifestyle.
Want to explore Harrison Township homes that match your lifestyle?
If you want to call Harrison Township, MI
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