Destinations
Michigan outdoors
Two Great Lakes coastlines, towering dunes, Lake Superior cliffs, and a wild island park reachable only by boat or seaplane.
Michigan is built around water. The state touches four of the five Great Lakes, and almost everything worth packing for happens along their shorelines. The Lower Peninsula gives you the classic Lake Michigan scene: rolling dunes that top out around 450 feet, shallow swimming beaches, and small harbor towns. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is the headliner here, with the famous Dune Climb, an easy scenic drive, and calm water around Glen Lake that makes it a friendly pick for families.
Cross the Mackinac Bridge into the Upper Peninsula and the landscape gets wilder. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore runs along Lake Superior from Munising to Grand Marais, stacking sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, deep forest, and a 42-mile slice of the North Country Trail into one of the best stretches of coast in the Midwest. Day hikers can knock out short waterfall walks like Munising Falls and Miners Falls, while bigger trips tackle cliff-hugging routes like the Chapel Loop. For true solitude, the state's island national park (see the list above) sits far out in Lake Superior and is open only mid-April through mid-October.
The sweet spot is mid-June through early October. Summer is prime beach and kayak season with highs in the 70s to low 80s F, while September trades the crowds for cooler air and maple color along the cliffs. The through-line on packing is layers and water readiness: Lake Superior stays cold all year, weather flips fast, and even a beach day can turn breezy. Plan for sun protection, sturdy shoes for sandy and rocky trails, a warm layer for evenings, and rain gear that earns its spot in the bag.
State park reservations
Michigan booking basics
Great Lakes parks can fill like beach towns. Check Recreation Passport needs and campground-specific quiet hours.
Booking note
Michigan uses MiDNRReservations for camping, lodging, harbors, and pavilions, with rules published by DNR.
Agency
Michigan DNR
State park directory
Michigan state park system places
A source-backed inventory layer for planning breadth. Full Kit Authority guides are marked when a park has imagery, camping detail, rules, and packing notes.
103 directory entries
0 full guides live
- Official page
Agate Falls Scenic Site
State park system area
Considered one of Michigan's most picturesque waterfalls, Agate Falls sits along the middle branch of the Ontonagon River, reached by a half-mile accessible trail to an observation platform.
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Albert E. Sleeper State Park
State Park
Albert E. Sleeper State Park spans 723 acres of forest, wetlands, forested dunes and half a mile of sandy shoreline along Lake Huron's Saginaw Bay.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Beach
- Biking
- Paddling
- Hunting
- Winter Sports
- Picnicking
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Algonac State Park
State Park
Algonac State Park is known for views of freighters along the St. Clair River, with a half-mile of riverfront, campgrounds, trails and a 1,200-acre dedicated natural area.
- Camping
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Biking
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Aloha State Park
State Park
Aloha State Park sits along the northeast shore of Mullett Lake near the Straits of Mackinac, with a modern campground, boating access, a swim beach and a protected boat basin.
- Camping
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Beach
- Biking
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Bald Mountain Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Bald Mountain Recreation Area covers 4,600 rolling acres of trails, inland lakes and trout streams across some of the steepest, most rugged terrain in southeastern Michigan.
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Biking
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Disc Golf
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Baraga State Park
State Park
Baraga State Park sits along Lake Superior's Keweenaw Bay and is popular for hiking, kayaking, camping and ORV-friendly recreation in the western Upper Peninsula.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Bass River Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Bass River Recreation Area lies along the Grand River between Grand Rapids and Grand Haven, with 3.5 miles of river frontage and more than 10 miles of varied trails.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Bay City State Park
State Park
Bay City State Park sits on Saginaw Bay and is home to the Tobico Marsh, more than 1,000 feet of sandy beach and over 2,000 acres of diverse habitats.
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Biking
- Swimming
- Beach
- Hunting
- Playground
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Belle Isle Park
State park system area
Belle Isle Park is a 985-acre island park in the Detroit River, home to a fountain, conservatory, aquarium, golf course, swim beach and many cultural and natural attractions.
- Swimming
- Beach
- Fishing
- Paddling
- Biking
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Golf
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Bewabic State Park
State Park
Bewabic State Park sits on Fortune Lake and offers modern and rustic campsites, a day-use area, a tennis court, hiking trails and a boat launch rich with CCC history.
- Camping
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Bond Falls Scenic Site
State park system area
Bond Falls is a scenic waterfall in southern Ontonagon County where the Ontonagon River tumbles roughly 50 feet over fractured rock, viewed from an accessible boardwalk.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Picnicking
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Brighton Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
The 4,947-acre Brighton Recreation Area in southeast Michigan holds nine lakes, five campgrounds, a swim beach, a disc golf course and a 35-mile trail system.
- Camping
- Biking
- Fishing
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Beach
- Boating
- Disc Golf
- Horseback Riding
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Burt Lake State Park
State Park
Burt Lake State Park sits on the southeast corner of Burt Lake with 2,000 feet of sandy shoreline, a shallow swim area, modern camping and boating in the heart of the Inland Waterway.
- Camping
- Boating
- Beach
- Biking
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Cambridge Junction Historic State Park
Historic State Park
Cambridge Junction Historic State Park, nestled in the Irish Hills, is home to Walker Tavern, Hewitt House, a reconstructed 1840s barn and an open-air farmers market.
- Hiking
- Historic Site
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Charles Mears State Park
State Park
Charles Mears State Park is a 50-acre site on Lake Michigan with a buoyed swim beach, fishing pier, campground, lodge and interpretive trail just steps from Pentwater.
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Beach
- Paddling
- Playground
- Picnicking
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Cheboygan State Park
State Park
Cheboygan State Park offers the trout-filled waters of Elliot Creek, a family-friendly beach, miles of scenic Lake Huron coastline and the historic Cheboygan Point Light site.
- Beach
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Biking
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Clear Lake State Park
State Park
Clear Lake State Park is known for pristine water and offers a modern campground, trails, lodging, a swim beach and a disc golf course in Michigan's elk country.
- Camping
- Boating
- Disc Golf
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Biking
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Coldwater Lake State Park
State Park
Coldwater Lake State Park is 400 acres of largely undeveloped land of former farmland, wetlands and hardwood forest, and the only public land open to hunting in the county.
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Craig Lake State Park
State Park
Craig Lake State Park is the most remote in Michigan's system, spanning more than 9,700 acres with hike-in campsites, yurts, rustic cabins, six lakes and miles of trail.
- Camping
- Backpacking
- Cabins
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Biking
- Paddling
- Winter Sports
- Wildlife Viewing
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Dodge #4 State Park
State Park
Dodge #4 State Park, about 30 miles from Detroit, is known for its sandy beach and one mile of shoreline along Cass Lake, the largest inland lake in southeast Michigan.
- Boating
- Swimming
- Beach
- Biking
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Duck Lake State Park
State Park
Duck Lake State Park is a day-use park on the shores of Lake Michigan and Duck Lake, with a boat launch, kayak rentals, towering dunes and 7 miles of natural-surface trails.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
F.J. McLain State Park
State Park
F.J. McLain State Park sits in the heart of the Keweenaw Peninsula along 2 miles of sandy Lake Superior beach, known for sunsets and views of the lighthouse.
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Beach
- Playground
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Fayette Historic State Park
Historic State Park
Fayette Historic State Park blends history and nature on the shores of Big Bay de Noc, with a historic townsite, campground, harbor, visitor center and 5 miles of trails.
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Biking
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Hunting
- Playground
- Historic Site
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Fishermans Island State Park
State Park
Fisherman's Island State Park spans 2,678 acres along more than 6 miles of unspoiled Lake Michigan shoreline near Charlevoix, with a rustic campground and dune-covered terrain.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
Show 79 more Michigan entries
- Official page
Fort Custer Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Fort Custer Recreation Area is a 3,033-acre park between Battle Creek and Kalamazoo with three lakes, the Kalamazoo River, campgrounds, a swim beach and more than 40 miles of trails.
- Camping
- Boating
- Swimming
- Beach
- Horseback Riding
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Biking
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Fort Wilkins Historic State Park
Historic State Park
Fort Wilkins Historic State Park, at the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, features a campground, a historical fort with a living history program and two 1860s lighthouses.
- Camping
- Historic Site
- Biking
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park
State Park
Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park is a 92-mile paved rail-trail linking Comstock Park near Grand Rapids to Cadillac through 15 towns and rural farmland.
- Hiking
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Wildlife Viewing
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Grand Haven State Park
State Park
Grand Haven State Park is a 48-acre park along a half-mile of sandy Lake Michigan shoreline, with a modern campground, swim beach and views of the pier and two lighthouses.
- Camping
- Beach
- Swimming
- Playground
- Fishing
- Biking
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Grand Mere State Park
State Park
Grand Mere State Park features magnificent sand dunes, deep blowouts and half a mile of Lake Michigan shoreline, with two inland lakes behind the dunes.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Harrisville State Park
State Park
Harrisville State Park sits along the sandy shores of Lake Huron with a day-use area in pine and cedar, a modern campground, swim beach and the 2-mile paved Heritage Trail.
- Camping
- Biking
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Playground
- Swimming
- Beach
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Hartwick Pines State Park
State Park
Hartwick Pines State Park is named for its 49 acres of old-growth pine forest, with a modern campground, a rustic cabin and 21 miles of trails including the paved Old Growth Forest Trail.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Biking
- Boating
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Playground
- Winter Sports
- Wildlife Viewing
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Highland Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Highland Recreation Area sits amid rolling hills with more than 10 inland lakes, a swim beach, a radio-controlled flying field and 44 miles of trails open to equestrians, bikers and hikers.
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Hoeft State Park
State Park
Hoeft State Park is a heavily wooded 340-acre park on Lake Huron with a mile of sandy shoreline, a modern campground, 4 miles of trails and a historic stone and log pavilion.
- Camping
- Playground
- Biking
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Swimming
- Beach
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Hoffmaster State Park
State Park
P.J. Hoffmaster State Park sits on 3 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline near Muskegon with a modern campground, towering dunes, 10 miles of trails and the Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center.
- Camping
- Beach
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Holland State Park
State Park
Holland State Park is known for sugar-sand beaches, sunsets and views of the iconic Big Red lighthouse, with two large campgrounds and connections to nonmotorized trails.
- Camping
- Beach
- Boating
- Playground
- Swimming
- Biking
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Holly Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Holly Recreation Area covers more than 8,000 acres of rolling woodlands and open fields between Pontiac and Flint, offering hiking, camping, boating, disc golf and mountain biking.
- Camping
- Beach
- Swimming
- Boating
- Disc Golf
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Biking
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Houghton-Douglass Falls and Veterans Memorial Scenic Site
State park system area
Located in the Keweenaw Peninsula north of Lake Linden, this 70-acre site is home to Michigan's tallest waterfall, dropping 110 feet into a rugged forested gorge.
- Hiking
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Indian Lake State Park
State Park
Indian Lake State Park sits on the shores of Indian Lake west of Manistique, with two units separated by the lake, a swim beach, picnic shelters and a paved lakeside trail.
- Camping
- Boating
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Beach
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Interlochen State Park
State Park
Interlochen State Park sits between Duck and Green lakes with modern and rustic camping, boating, paddling and swimming, and was established as Michigan's first state park in 1919.
- Camping
- Boating
- Paddling
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Beach
- Picnicking
- Playground
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Ionia State Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Ionia Recreation Area offers 4,500 acres of rolling hills, meadows, mature forests and wetlands between Grand Rapids and Lansing, with a scenic lake and winding river.
- Camping
- Horseback Riding
- Hunting
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Disc Golf
- Biking
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Island Lake Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Island Lake Recreation Area spans 4,000 acres of southeast Michigan with four inland lakes, the Huron River, a shooting range and trails for mountain biking and hiking.
- Biking
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Swimming
Michigan DNR
- Official page
J.W. Wells State Park
State Park
J.W. Wells State Park stretches along 3 miles of Lake Michigan's Green Bay south of Escanaba, with a modern campground, swim beach, rustic cabins and a trail with warming shelters.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Playground
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Biking
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Beach
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Kal-Haven Trail State Park
State Park
Kal-Haven Trail State Park is a 33.5-mile rail-trail between Kalamazoo and South Haven on an 1871 railroad bed, winding through woods, farmland, streams and rivers.
- Biking
- Hiking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park
State Park
Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park is a 75-acre urban park just 2 miles from downtown, with a modern campground, mini cabins and a quarter-mile sandy beach on Grand Traverse Bay.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Playground
- Beach
- Biking
- Fishing
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Swimming
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Lake Gogebic State Park
State Park
Lake Gogebic State Park sits in the heart of the Ottawa National Forest, an ideal home base for exploring the western Upper Peninsula, including nearby waterfalls and the Porcupine Mountains.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Beach
- Picnicking
- Playground
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Lake Hudson Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Lake Hudson Recreation Area surrounds a no-wake lake near the Ohio border and is home to Michigan's first dark sky preserve, with a campground, swim beach and a 1.5-mile trail.
- Camping
- Hunting
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Lakeport State Park
State Park
Lakeport State Park lies 10 miles north of Port Huron along a mile of rocky Lake Huron shoreline, with a modern campground, playground and buoyed swim area in two units.
- Camping
- Swimming
- Playground
- Picnicking
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Laughing Whitefish Falls State Park
State Park
Laughing Whitefish Falls cascades through a picturesque gorge framed by old-growth white pine and hemlock, reached by a half-mile hike to three observation platforms.
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Leelanau State Park
State Park
Leelanau State Park covers more than 1,550 acres at the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula along Lake Michigan, with a rustic campground, mini cabins, a lighthouse and the Cathead Bay trails.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Biking
- Hunting
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Lime Island State Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Lime Island State Recreation Area encompasses a 932-acre island in the eastern Upper Peninsula with a boat dock, cabins and tent camping on wooden platforms.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Ludington State Park
State Park
Ludington State Park sits between Hamlin Lake and 7 miles of sandy Lake Michigan shoreline, with scenic dunes, three campgrounds, the Big Sable Point Lighthouse and 21 miles of trails.
- Camping
- Boating
- Beach
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Swimming
- Biking
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Maybury State Park
State Park
Maybury State Park offers a serene 1,000-acre escape 25 miles northwest of Detroit, with rolling hills, meadows and winding trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding.
- Biking
- Hiking
- Playground
- Horseback Riding
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Menominee River State Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Menominee River State Recreation Area protects a 17-mile undeveloped river corridor with rocky gorges and towering pines, a destination for whitewater rafting, kayaking and wildlife viewing.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Biking
- Paddling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Meridian-Baseline State Park
State Park
Meridian-Baseline State Park marks the point where all township, range and section measurements begin for Michigan, with a 1.4-mile out-and-back trail to two survey monuments.
- Hiking
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area surrounds Lake Minnawanna south of Lapeer, with a 723-acre setting of modern camping, a swim area, fishing pier and 6 miles of trails.
- Camping
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Beach
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Mike Levine Lakelands Trail State Park
State Park
Mike Levine Lakelands Trail State Park is a 34-mile linear rail-trail within the Great Lake-to-Lake Trail, passing through woods, pastures, wetlands and along the Huron River.
- Hiking
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Muskallonge Lake State Park
State Park
Muskallonge Lake State Park is a 217-acre park northwest of Newberry bordering both Lake Superior and Muskallonge Lake, renowned for its forests, lakes and streams.
- Camping
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Muskegon State Park
State Park
Muskegon State Park offers 3 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan and Muskegon Lake, with forested dunes, two campgrounds, multiple trails and a historic CCC-built blockhouse.
- Camping
- Beach
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Boating
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Newaygo State Park
State Park
Newaygo State Park sits atop 20-foot embankments overlooking Hardy Dam Pond, with two rustic campgrounds, an 18-hole disc golf course and a boating access site bordering the Manistee National Forest.
- Camping
- Boating
- Disc Golf
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Biking
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
North Higgins Lake State Park
State Park
North Higgins Lake State Park lies along Higgins Lake at the former site of the world's largest seedling nursery, with a campground, swim beach, trails and the CCC Museum.
- Camping
- Biking
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Beach
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Onaway State Park
State Park
Onaway State Park is located on the southeast shore of beautiful Black Lake in Presque Isle County.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Orchard Beach State Park
State Park
Orchard Beach State Park is situated on a 100-foot bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, just 3 miles north of Manistee.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Picnicking
- Nature Trails
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Otsego Lake State Park
State Park
Otsego Lake State Park, located near Gaylord and easily accessed from I-75, is home to 62 acres of lakeside recreation.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Paddling
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Palms Book State Park
State Park
Palms Book State Park, located at the north end of Indian Lake in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, is home to Kitch-iti-kipi or "The Big Spring."
- Fishing
- Boating
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Wildlife Viewing
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Petoskey State Park
State Park
Nestled on the shores of Little Traverse Bay, Petoskey State Park offers a mile of sandy shores along Lake Michigan, two campgrounds and a network of hiking trails.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Pinckney Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
With its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife and endless recreational opportunities, Pinckney Recreation Area is a must-visit destination for campers, mountain bikers, anglers and other recreation enthusiasts.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Backpacking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Pontiac Lake Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Nestled amidst a mix of marshes, ponds, forests, old farm fields and lakes, Pontiac Lake Recreation Area offers a diverse range of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Paddling
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
State Park
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park features 60,000 acres of old-growth forest, roaring waterfalls, Lake Superior shoreline, rivers, trails and ridges.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Backpacking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Picnicking
- Disc Golf
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Port Crescent State Park
State Park
Port Crescent State Park, located just outside the town of Port Austin at the tip of Michigan's thumb, is set along 3 miles of sandy Lake Huron shoreline.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Nature Trails
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Proud Lake Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Proud Lake Recreation Area, approximately 3,000 acres, is located on the scenic Huron River and borders Proud Lake.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Nature Trails
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Rifle River Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Rifle River Recreation Area provides fishing, paddling, camping and more in this picturesque setting.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Paddling
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Rockport State Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Boasting a fascinating past as a limestone quarry, this park, just north of Alpena, offers a unique blend of history and outdoor adventure.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Picnicking
- Paddling
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park
Historic State Park
Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park, located near Cass City in Michigan's Thumb region, is the home of Michigan's largest known collection of early Native American teachings carved in stone.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Saugatuck Dunes State Park
State Park
Saugatuck Dunes State Park features 2.5 miles of sandy Lake Michigan shoreline, coastal dunes, forested areas, 13 miles of trails and the 300-acre Patty Birkholz Natural Area.
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Disc Golf
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Seven Lakes State Park
State Park
Seven Lakes State Park boasts over 230 acres of water spread across six lakes, offering ample opportunity for paddling, fishing and swimming.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Paddling
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Silver Lake State Park
State Park
Silver Lake State Park is home to nearly 3 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, 2,000 acres of sand dunes and the popular 450-acre Silver Lake ORV Area.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Paddling
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Sleepy Hollow State Park
State Park
Nestled just 20 minutes north of Lansing, Sleepy Hollow State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 2,600 sprawling acres of scenic beauty.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Disc Golf
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Paddling
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
South Higgins Lake State Park
State Park
South Higgins Lake State Park, situated on 1 mile of shoreline along Higgins Lake, boasts one of the largest Michigan state park campgrounds, a popular boat launch and a popular day-use area.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Paddling
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Straits State Park
State Park
Straits State Park is home to 181 acres of recreation with fantastic views of the Mackinac Bridge and Straits of Mackinac.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Sturgeon Point State Park
State Park
Sturgeon Point State Park is located 5 miles north of Harrisville on Lake Huron.
- Picnicking
- Beach
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Tahquamenon Falls State Park
State Park
Tahquamenon Falls State Park encompasses nearly 50,000 acres and stretches 13-plus miles in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Backpacking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Picnicking
- Nature Trails
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Winter Sports
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Tawas Point State Park
State Park
Tawas Point State Park, located on a sand spit that forms Tawas Bay along Lake Huron, is home to 183 acres of lakeside recreation.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Thompsons Harbor State Park
State Park
Nestled along 7.5 miles of Lake Huron's beautiful shoreline, Thompson's Harbor State Park offers a rustic adventure for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Nature Trails
- Paddling
- Winter Sports
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Tippy Dam Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Tippy Dam Recreation Area is located on Manistee River and the upstream, dammed portion of the river, known as Tippy Dam backwaters.
- Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Picnicking
- Nature Trails
- Paddling
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Twin Lakes State Park
State Park
Twin Lakes State Park - located in Michigan's Copper Country, about 26 miles from Houghton - is located on the southwest shore of Lake Roland.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Paddling
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Van Buren State Park
State Park
Nestled along Lake Michigan's picturesque shoreline, Van Buren State Park boasts towering dunes, a pristine sandy beach and lush woodland trails.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Biking
- Golf
- Beach
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Van Buren Trail State Park
State Park
Van Buren Trail State Park is a 14-mile, linear, multiuse trail that runs along a former railroad right-of-way and links the cities of Hartford and South Haven
- Hiking
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Van Riper State Park
State Park
Van Riper State Park is a 1,100-acre park located 35 miles west of Marquette, with 1.5 miles of waterfront on Lake Michigamme and the Peshekee River.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Paddling
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
W.C. Wetzel Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Spanning 913 largely undeveloped acres, W.C. Wetzel Recreation Area offers a rugged escape highlighted by 3.3 miles of hiking trails, expansive wetlands and a dedicated radio-controlled airplane field.
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
W.F. Memorial Hart-Montague Trail State Park
State Park
Explore the scenic beauty of the William Field Memorial Hart-Montague Trail State Park.
- Hiking
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
Michigan DNR
- Official page
W.J. Hayes State Park
State Park
Hayes State Park is located on Wamplers and Round lakes in the heart of the Irish Hills.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Wagner Falls Scenic Site
State park system area
Wagner Falls Scenic Site is located just 1.5 miles south of Munising.
- Wildlife Viewing
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Warren Dunes State Park
State Park
Warren Dunes State Park provides 1,500 acres of recreational opportunities along the beautiful shore of Lake Michigan.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Nature Trails
- Paddling
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Warren Woods State Park
State Park
Warren Woods State Park is a 311-acre nature preserve and hidden gem just 7 minutes from Warren Dunes State Park.
- Hiking
- Fishing
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Waterloo Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Waterloo Recreation Area is the largest state park in the Lower Peninsula, home to a diverse array of camping options, 11 inland lakes and a trail system.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Backpacking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Disc Golf
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Paddling
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Watkins Lake State Park and County Preserve
State Park
Watkins Lake State Park and County Preserve is best known for its quiet serenity, scenic lake, 5-mile walking trail, bird-watching opportunities and many other draws.
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Wilderness State Park
State Park
Wilderness State Park, located 11 miles west of Mackinaw City, is home to 26 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, 20-plus miles of trails and a swimming beach.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Backpacking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
William C. Sterling State Park
State Park
The park protects more than 500 acres of Great Lakes marsh and restored lake plain prairie habitat and is well known for its access to walleye and perch fisheries.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Wildlife Viewing
- Paddling
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor
State Park
William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor is located in the heart of Detroit, just east of downtown, along a portion of the city's Detroit Riverwalk.
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Biking
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Wilson State Park
State Park
Steeped in history, Wilson State Park offers a scenic escape on 36 wooded acres at the north end of Budd Lake in Clare County.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Paddling
- Biking
- Golf
- Winter Sports
- Beach
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Wm. Mitchell State Park
State Park
Tucked between the sparkling waters of Lake Mitchell and Lake Cadillac, William Mitchell State Park invites visitors to explore its 770 acres of outdoor recreation.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Paddling
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Yankee Springs Recreation Area
State Recreation Area
Yankee Spring's terrain, punctuated by bogs, marshes and tranquil lakes, offers a haven for outdoor adventure.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Nature Trails
- Paddling
- Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Winter Sports
- Beach
- Historic Site
- Hunting
Michigan DNR
- Official page
Young State Park
State Park
Young State Park is situated on the eastern shore of beautiful Lake Charlevoix, just outside Boyne City.
- Camping
- RV Camping
- Cabins
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Disc Golf
- Playground
- Nature Trails
- Paddling
- Biking
- Winter Sports
- Historic Site
Michigan DNR
Inventory source: USGS PAD-US 4.1. Curated states also use official agency directories where available. Official reservations and rules remain state-specific, so use the state booking links above before committing to dates.
National parks in Michigan
Getting around Michigan
Your gateway depends on which half of the state you want. Detroit Metropolitan (DTW) is Michigan's largest airport and the easiest to fly into, sitting near I-275 and I-94 with good access to Detroit and Ann Arbor. It is a long haul to the outdoor highlights, though: the Upper Peninsula is roughly 450 road miles north, a full driving day.
For the Lower Peninsula dunes, fly into Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) in Traverse City. The airport is about 5 minutes from downtown, and Sleeping Bear Dunes is a short hop west along the Lake Michigan coast. Grand Rapids sits about 140 miles (roughly 2 hours) south of Traverse City if you want a larger hub with more flight options.
For the Upper Peninsula and its Lake Superior cliffs, fly into Sawyer International (MQT) near Marquette, about 15 miles from town. From Marquette it is roughly an hour east to the Munising side of Pictured Rocks. Out-of-state drivers sometimes route through Green Bay (about 3 hours from Marquette) or even Minneapolis (around 6.5 hours). Expect long drives between the two peninsulas: the Mackinac Bridge is the only land link, and crossing from Traverse City up to the central UP is a 3 to 4 hour trip. Treat the Lower and Upper Peninsulas as two separate trips rather than one loop.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Michigan's parks?
Mid-June through early October is the broad sweet spot. Summer brings warm beach and kayak weather with highs in the 70s to low 80s F, while September offers fewer crowds, cooler air, and fall color along the Upper Peninsula cliffs. If you are headed to the Lake Superior island park, note it is only open from mid-April through mid-October.
What is the best national park in Michigan?
Michigan's marquee national lakeshores are Sleeping Bear Dunes on Lake Michigan and Pictured Rocks on Lake Superior. Sleeping Bear is the easier, more family-friendly choice with big dunes and swimming beaches, while Pictured Rocks rewards hikers with dramatic sandstone cliffs and waterfalls. For a remote, boat-only wilderness experience, the state's Lake Superior island national park is in a class of its own.
How do you get to Isle Royale National Park?
You cannot drive to it. Access is by ferry or seaplane only, with ferries departing from Houghton (about 6 hours each way) and Copper Harbor (about 3.5 hours each way). Seaplanes cut the trip to roughly 35 to 40 minutes. The park is open mid-April through mid-October, and many ferry lines only run from late spring into September, so book transportation well ahead.
Do you need a warm layer for a Michigan summer trip?
Yes. Even in July and August, Lake Superior stays cold and lakeside evenings turn breezy fast, especially in the Upper Peninsula. Pack a warm layer and reliable rain gear alongside your beach kit, since weather along the Great Lakes can shift quickly during the day.