Like a lot of folks, I usually head south for the winter to escape the chilly weather. My winter vacations have gotten a lot shorter since I discovered the "country club" amenities and facilities at Klines Resort. It's worth shaking off the snow from a trip north to get back to this lakeside paradise in St. Joseph County, Michigan!

Family owned and operated by the Klines since 1965, the latest generation of owners is proud to continue their family traditions of excellent service, quality and a great value for your money. Phil & Tama Kline are more than resort owners, they are great friends to their guests.

Klines Resort is set on 164 rural acres along 3500 feet of Portage Lake. Guests enjoy full access to the lake from the common area along the shore. I appreciate the seclusion from the hustle and bustle in the park-like setting of fields, woods and marshlands. My feathered and furred friends abound in this natural setting.

When you come to Klines Resort, there are many ways to enjoy your stay. Whether you park your RV, purchase a park model home or make a seasonal or full-time "nest" in a manufactured home, you will enjoy the finest in amenities!

What's more, the recreational opportunities here are guaranteed to bring a smile to your beak. If you're an early riser, you'll want to join the other walkers as they make their rounds of the resort. Work on your backhand with a few games of tennis. Shuffleboard courts, sand volleyball, basketball and a playground for the little "peepers" are available for you and your guests. There's a driving range to practice your swing before visiting any of the 8 public courses nearby. There are resort trails to walk or ride by bike as well as many designated bike routes on the scenic country roads. Many of us "regulars" use golf carts to go for social calls around the resort (certainly nice to have after flapping 2000 miles!).

If, like me, fishing is your passion, Klines Resort offers you the chance to reel in bass, blue gill, perch, northern pike and many more species of fish out of Portage Lake and the surrounding tributaries. Plus, with over 500 acres of pristine water, you'll have plenty of space to go boating and water skiing. Take a canoe along the scenic Portage River, which runs both upstream and downstream from the lake. Dockside, you will enjoy the serenity of the water. Watch the mist as it rises from the water and listen closely for the beating wings of swans flying low over the lake.