Your Ultimate Guide To State Parks In Michigan
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Beth
Author
It’s nearly impossible to imagine Michigan without its impressive collection of state parks. Sure, destinations such as Pictured Rocks National Park and Isle Royale National Park certainly get their fair share of attention, but we’d argue that the best state parks in Michigan are equally as impressive. You may be wondering, “How many state parks are there in Michigan?” and the answer may surprise you — there are 103! Below we’ve outlined some of our favorites, and we think you’ll agree.
Most Popular State Parks In Michigan
Some Michigan state parks are popular for a reason; they’re absolutely breathtaking. Below you’ll find a handful of the most popular state parks in Michigan that you’ll want to explore as soon as you can. Just don’t forget to bring your camera with you!
1. Palms Book State Park
Palms Book State Park, Thompson, Manistique, MI 49854, USA
There's nothing quite as spectacular as the sight of the Big Spring, with its clear view and stunning big fish. When it comes to things to do at Palms Book State Park, exploring the spring is a must, as is checking out the nearby Indian Lake, which offers its own abundance of natural beauty.
2. Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Tahquamenon Falls State Park, 41382 W M-123, Paradise, MI 49768, USA
Seeing the largest waterfall in Michigan is one of the best things to do at Tahquamenon Falls State Park. Of course, that's just the beginning of all the adventures in store. Visitors will enjoy some of the best hiking and camping opportunities in the state. Fun fact: Tahquamenon Falls is often called "Root Beer Falls" due to the rusty color, caused by cedar and hemlock tannins upriver.
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3. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
Porcupine Mountains, Carp Lake Township, MI 49953, USA
If you're planning on visiting Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, affectionately known as "the Porkies," you are in for a real treat. Visitors will enjoy old-grown forest, stunning waterfalls, rivers, streams, and nearly 100 miles of hiking trails. To summarize, there's really no shortage of fun things to do at Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.
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Best State Parks In Michigan To Camp
Camping in Michigan is always a good idea, and that’s especially true if you’re planning to visit a local state park. Whether you’re looking for waterfront campgrounds or something tucked away in an old-growth forest, you’ll surely be impressed by the selection. Take a look at our recommendations for the best state parks in Michigan to camp and get ready for an epic night under the stars!
4. South Higgins Lake State Park
South Higgins Lake State Park, 106 State Park Dr, Roscommon, MI 48653, USA
South Higgins Lake State Park encompasses one mile of shoreline along South Higgins Lake. Looking for things to do at South Higgins Lake State Park? Camping is a great idea; the park offers one of the largest campgrounds in any of the local state parks. It's also popular for boating.
5. Wilderness State Park
Wilderness State Park, 903 Wilderness Park Dr, Carp Lake, MI 49718, USA
For those looking for a breath of fresh air -- both proverbial and literal -- it's hard to imagine a more pristine setting than Wilderness State Park. As for things to do at Wilderness State Park, camping is an obvious choice; who wouldn't want to wake up to such a beautiful setting? Other activities here include biking, hiking, and fishing.
6. Ludington State Park
Ludington State Park - Hamlin Lake Beach, Free Soil, MI 49411, USA
Nestled between the 5,000-acre Hamlin Lake and Lake Michigan, there's simply no shortage of things to do at Ludington State Park. This area is popular for its picturesque sand dunes, so be sure to bring your camera. And camping enthusiasts will be happy to hear that there are three campgrounds to choose from.
7. Sleepy Hollow State Park
Ludington State Park Beach, 8800 M-116, Ludington, MI 49431, USA
There are so many things to do at Sleepy Hollow State Park, which measures over 2,600 acres in size. The crown jewel of the park is Lake Ovid, which covers over 400 acres. The park is open for year-round adventures, and camping is especially popular during the warmer months. The campground here offers 181 campsites. There are also a few cabins available to rent.
Best State Parks In Michigan To RV
There’s something exhilarating about traveling by RV, especially in a state as vast and lovely as Michigan. State parks offer a beautiful and affordable place to stay, and many of them accommodate RV campers. Don’t own a vehicle yourself? No problem! Check out some of the amazing rental options from RVShare.com.
8. Warren Dunes State Park
Warren Dunes State Park, 12032 Red Arrow Hwy, Sawyer, MI 49125, USA
Measuring nearly 2,000 acres in size, Warren Dunes State Park is one that belongs on every outdoor adventurer's bucket list. In addition to stunning views of the water, the landscape consists of sand dunes, maritime forests, and interdunal wetlands. As for unique things to do at Warren Dunes State Park, bird-watching is a great option.
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9. Holland State Park
Holland State Park - Macatawa Campground, 2215 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland, MI 49424, USA
Whether you're taking in a sunset or strolling along the beach, you'll quickly discover there's lots to love about Holland State Park. When it comes to memorable things to do at Holland State Park, viewing the famous Big Red Lighthouse is a must! One thing's for sure: you'll want to bring your camera with you.
Best State Parks In Michigan For Hiking
Hiking is without a doubt the most popular thing to do in a Michigan state park. For proof of this, look no further than the following list of the best state parks in Michigan for hiking. We bet you’ll be lacing up your walking shoes in no time!
10. Mackinac Island State Park
Mackinac Island State Park, 7029 Huron Rd, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA
Originally established as a national park in 1875, Mackinac Island State Park is one of the most iconic in the region. The state park makes up nearly 80 percent of the island. Hiking enthusiasts will want to check out the Mackinac Island Outer Loop Trail and the Arch Rock Trail. There are so many things to do at Mackinac Island State Park!
11. Presque Isle Park
Presque Isle Park, Peter White Dr, Marquette, MI 49855, USA
From stunning lookouts to hiking and biking trails, there's no shortage of things to do at Presque Isle Park. For the best introduction to the park, take the Presque Isle Park Loop.
12. Thompson's Harbor State Park
There's no doubt about it; Thompson's Harbor State Park is an outdoor enthusiast's dream. As for memorable things to do at Thompson's Harbor State Park, hiking is at the top of the list. The Main Trail offers hiking, mountain biking, and even snowshoeing in the winter.
13. Fayette Historic State Park
Fayette Historic State Park, 4785 II Rd, Garden, MI 49835, USA
Travel back in time when you visit the unique destination of Fayette Historic State Park. Whether you're a history buff or a nature enthusiast, you'll find no shortage of memorable things to do at Fayette Historic State Park. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fayette Overlook Trail and the Fayette Historic Town Site Loop.
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Little-Known State Parks In Michigan
With so many state parks in Michigan, it stands to reason that some would fly under the radar. Here are a handful of little-known state parks in Michigan that deserve your attention.
14. Duck Lake State Park
Duck Lake State Park, 4733 N Scenic Dr, Whitehall, MI 49461, USA
Welcome to the gorgeous Duck Lake State Park! Situated between the shores of Duke Lake and Lake Michigan, you'll find no shortage of water-related things to do at Duck Lake State Park. You can even drive to Muskegon State Park, connected via a scenic drive.
15. William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor
William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor, 1900 Atwater St, Detroit, MI 48207, USA
Few people realize there's a natural oasis in the heart of downtown Detroit! If you're looking for things to do at William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor, options include paved walking trails, shore fishing, and river walks.
There you have it: some of the most beautiful state parks in Michigan. With miles of trails, stunning shorelines, inland lakes, canoeing, stargazing, a sandy beach or two, campgrounds, waterfalls, biking, kayaking, cross-country skiing, and more, these parks offer something for everyone. Which do you plan on visiting in the near future? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you!
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