Where it All Began

Val-Du Lakes Resort began when Moses Davis and his wife, both retired black school teachers, bought a 100-acre Oceana County farm back in the 1920s. On this fertile piece of land, Davis farmed cherries, apples, pears, and vegetables, along with raising livestock.

The couple’s daughter, Lila, and her husband, David O. Duncan, had many friends who came with their families to spend the lazy summer months at what was called the “Val-Du Lakes Farm Resort,” named for the valleys, dunes, and lakes that surround it. They enjoyed fishing in spring-fed Hunter Creek, hiking the world’s largest shifting sand dunes, and swimming at the golden beaches of Oceana County. Val-Du Lakes Hill was Lila’s most cherished possession. Its panoramic view of Silver Lake, the vast dunes, and the great Lake Michigan was—and still is—breathtaking.

Many years later, Lila sold the farm to fulfill another’s dream of a place to play ball, listen to music, and relax and enjoy life.

 

The Glory Days – Big Names, Big Hair, and Big Times

Through the late 1980s and early 1990s, some of the nation’s largest bands found themselves playing for thousands of fans at the Val-Du Lakes Amphitheatre. Among some of the major tours that came through Val-Du Lakes were:

Other notable concerts that hit the Val-Du Main Stage between 1989-1993 included great bands like:

  • Guns-N-Roses
  • Stevie Ray Vaughn
  • Hank Williams Jr.
  • .38 Special
  • The Beach Boys
  • Whitesnake
  • Skid Row
  • Three Dog Night

 

Continuing Traditions at Val-Du Lakes

Today, under current owners Brian and Mary Lowing, Val-Du Lakes Resort continues to embrace its rich past as both a scenic country resort and West Michigan’s entertainment hot-spot. Guests at the Val-Du Lakes Campground still enjoy the beauty of the natural grounds and return year after year to make memories at the best and most relaxed campground in Silver Lake. The Val-Du Lakes Bar & Grill continues to feature live bands and entertainment on the weekends.   Vacationers can even stay in the recently restored Val-Du Manor that once belonged to the Davis family.

Come visit us at Val-Du Lakes Resort and learn what makes our little piece of Silver Lake so special!