Cass County is among Michigan's southernmost counties bordering Indiana near the state's southwest corner. The historic area has been under the rule of four nations and played a significant role in aiding escaping slaves during the Civil War period. Its natural resources include 250 lakes and several preserves offering diverse recreational opportunities. Along with its natural resources, its flourishing small towns with museums, theaters and community festivals create year-round destinations within this mature Michigan region.
Cassopolis
- The Village of Cassopolis is a friendly lakeside community located in the southwest corner of Cass County. Two lakes create a scenic backdrop for village activities providing opportunities for boating and year-round fishing fun. The 156-acre Stone Lake sits largely within the village while the 1,020-acre Diamond Lake brushes the city's southeast boundaries. Four village parks enhance options for outdoor play. The county seat, Cassopolis is home to Cass County Fair. For more than 160 years, the fair has honored the region's rural roots, offering exhibits, competitions and entertainment.
Dowagiac
- While it's known as the Grand Old City of Southwest Michigan, Dowagiac remains a modern force. Its rich recreation venues include eight parks and preserves. Dowagiac Woods offers a prolific show of wildflower blooms as one of the largest woodlands of virgin soil in Michigan. Eight miles of hiking, biking and cross-country ski trails traverse Rudolphi Woods. Museums dedicated to local history include Dowagiac Area History Museum with its large collection of artifacts pertaining to the Round Oak Stove Company and the National Heddon Museum located at the former Heddon fishing tackle factory site. Three golf courses provide fun on the fairways. Visitors to Dowagiac's Victorian-style downtown encounter an array of independent shops and restaurants.
Niles
- The oldest community in Michigan, Niles is known as the "City of Four Flags." The name stems from the fact that over its 300-year history it has been under jurisdiction of four countries. An active community, it's home to a 5-mile walking-jogging trail along the St. Joseph River and Riverfront Park where amenities include a large children's play area, a 200-foot boating dock, fishing pier and amphitheater. Sights to visit include Fort St. Joseph Museum to see a collection dedicated to the periods of the four flags, the Haunted Scream Park for chills and thrills and the Bensidoun French Market for fresh local produce, pottery, lotions and handmade items.
Jones
- Jones, an unincorporated community located in Newberg Township, is a destination hub for Cass County's winter visitors. Home to Swiss Valley Ski and Snowboard Area, winter sport lovers from throughout southern Michigan, Indiana and Illinois enjoy the resort's opportunities for downhill fun. Swiss Valley's 225-foot vertical peak is the highest in southwest Michigan. Its lifts are capable of taking nearly 10,000 skiers per hour to the mountaintop. In addition to 11 runs, a groomed terrain park offers tabletops, high spines, grind rails and pyramids. Night skiing, rentals and lessons are all available. Visitors warm up at the Fireside Lounge or grab a bite at the cafe or Chalet.
