Tapping into the Sands Plain Aquifer: The Water Source at Kona Hills
One of the biggest challenges of developing Kona Hills Campground on a massive rock outcropping was securing a reliable water source. After nearly four years of searching, we finally found a driller willing to take on the challenge—and we struck water 400 feet down.
Through careful research and by following the path of a nearby abandoned well, we selected a drilling location. What we tapped into wasn’t just any water source—it was a confined aquifer connected to the Sands Plain Aquifer, one of the most important groundwater resources in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
What is the Sands Plain Aquifer?
The Sands Plain Aquifer covers approximately 225 square miles in Marquette County, Michigan. Composed of thick glacial deposits—some areas reaching depths of 500 feet—this aquifer stores and moves large amounts of groundwater.
This groundwater primarily comes from local precipitation, with an annual recharge of about 15 inches, and also receives water from the upper reaches of Goose Lake Outlet. It plays a critical role in sustaining local streams, with nearly 95% of stream discharge in the region originating from groundwater flow.
Our Artesian Well: A Natural Water Flow
When we drilled 400 feet down, the underground pressure caused the water to rebound 380 feet, meaning only a few pumps are needed to get a steady flow. This makes our water source an artesian well—a well where water naturally rises due to pressure from surrounding geological formations.
How an Artesian Well Works:
Water Source – Rain and snowmelt seep into the ground from a higher elevation, recharging the aquifer.
Pressure Build-Up – The water becomes trapped between layers of rock or clay (a confined aquifer), creating natural pressure.
Well Drilling – When a well is drilled into the aquifer, the pressure forces the water upward—sometimes all the way to the surface.
Flowing Artesian Wells – If pressure is strong enough, water may flow continuously without pumping.
Benefits of an Artesian Well:
Minimal Pumping Needed – Natural pressure reduces energy costs.
Clean, Deep Groundwater – Less contamination compared to surface water.
Reliable Supply – Unlike shallow wells that may dry up, confined aquifers provide a steady flow.
A Commitment to Sustainability
At Kona Hills, we’re incredibly fortunate to have a deep, reliable artesian well providing fresh water to our campers. As stewards of this land, we recognize the importance of conserving and protecting this valuable resource.
We’re committed to sustainable water use and ongoing monitoring to ensure the Sands Plain Aquifer remains healthy for decades to come.
Whether you're filling up your bottle after a long hike or boiling water for your morning coffee, you can rest assured that the water at Kona Hills is pure, natural, and responsibly sourced—straight from the heart of Michigan’s wilderness.