G'chi-dikibi (Kitch-iti-kipi), the Big Spring

Most road signs and travel guides call this spring Kitch-iti-kipi or the Big Spring. Michigan DNR’s 2024 management plan records G’chi-dikibi as the accurate spelling in modern Anishinaabemowin. The plan also says Great Lakes Anishinaabek identify the spring and surrounding landscape as a Traditional Cultural Property significant to their heritage. DNR is working with Tribal partners on how that spelling should appear across agency materials and signs, so you may see both names for a while.

The natural wonder is easy to explain. This is Michigan’s largest natural freshwater spring. More than 10,000 gallons of 45-degree water rise through the limestone every minute, keeping sand in motion on the bottom. From the accessible, self-propelled observation raft, you can look through the clear water at trout, old tree trunks, and lime-covered branches. DNR says the spring does not typically freeze.

The raft is for looking, not swimming. DNR prohibits swimming, bathing, diving, fishing, boating, and putting objects — including underwater cameras — into the spring. The raft is currently open from 8 a.m. to dusk. Check the park page before making the drive because store hours and other visitor details can change.

There is a real park-making story here, but it should not erase the older one. Manistique businessman John Bellaire pushed to clean up, preserve, and promote the spring. At his urging, the state bought 90 acres from the Palms Book Land Company for $10 in 1928, with a deed requiring a public park named Palms Book State Park. Bellaire also sold spring water and sand at his store while claiming they had magical powers. DNR now says some interpretation and legends presented at the site are not authentic to Anishinaabek knowledge and should be updated with stakeholder Tribes. In other words, Bellaire helped preserve and market the place; he did not invent its Native history or significance.