Pure Michigan Bliss: Discover the Magic of 16 Michigan State Parks
Share
Michigan’s Best State Parks
Michigan is made up of thousands of miles of shoreline and over 100 stunning state parks. Each State Park in Michigan offers a unique adventure to its visitors.
There’s nothing better than getting lost on a hiking trail (figuratively of course), camping under the stars or having a picnic by the water.
With so many parks to visit, it can be a challenge to pick which one to cross off your list next!
We’ve done the hard work for you. Read on for the best State Parks in Michigan.
state parks michigan
The Best of the West
These state parks are gems along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
PJ Hoffmaster State Park
6585 Lake Harbor Rd, Norton Shores, MI 49441
PJ Hoffmaster State Park, one of the Westside’s most talked about state parks, is nestled between Grand Haven and Muskegon. From the stunning sandy beach along the Lake Michigan shoreline to the newly renovated campground, it’s no wonder it’s one of the most visit-worthy parks.
If you’re a camper at heart or aspire to be one with nature, Hoffmaster is for you! The park underwent renovations and major improvements in the 2023 season. Invite all your outdoorsy friends to camp under the stars at the modern 294 site campground.
The dune climb along the Dune Overlook Trail is a main attraction, drawing in visitors from across the state.
Can you tackle the 220 steps to get to the top of a sand dune?
If those steps were easy-peasy, consider the 10 miles of scenic hiking trails throughout the park. But don’t be fooled. Sand dunes aren’t just for summer – ski your heart out during the winter season.
Don’t forget to make a stop at the Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center where you can explore the story of the Michigan sand dunes.
From pristine beaches to glorious Lake Michigan Sunsets, PJ Hoffmaster is an A-list destination.
Silver Lake State Park
9679 W State Park Rd, Mears, MI 49436
Buckle up, we’re headed to Silver Lake State Park!
With over 450 acres of dunes, Sliver (as dune buggy fanatics call it) is the only place east of the Mississippi you’ll be able to take your ORV through sand dunes.
No ORV? No problem! If you’re feeling daring, rent an ATV, Dune Buggy or SidexSide to take into the sand dunes for an unforgettable adventure.
Rather be a shotgun rider? Hop in Mac Dune Rides’ limo-esque buggy for a 40-minute experience that will leave you screaming for more.
If scaling the dunes on foot is your jam, don’t worry, there’s a place for you, too. Sitting between the ORV and the Mac Dune Rides area, is the pedestrian only area. Meet up with old friends, make new friends or find a secluded area to plop down when you get there.
The fun doesn’t stop when summer ends. The park recently introduced a shoreline horseback riding season during the month of November for those that can’t get enough sand. Don’t forget fat-tire bike riding season runs Dec. 15 – March 15.
Yankee Springs State Park
2104 S Briggs Rd, Middleville, MI 49333
From rugged terrain to the unforgettable Gun Lake, Yankee Springs State Park is the outdoorsy person’s paradise. The State Park stretches over a whopping 5,200 acres with no shortage of activities to keep you busy.
If recreation is your middle name, Yankee Springs is the place for you. Catch dinner or indulge in water sports at one of the nine lakes within the State Park’s perimeter.
Lace up your hiking boots – with over 30 miles of walking trails, you’ll be sure to hit your daily step goal. If you still haven’t satisfied your desire to be active, check out the 10 miles of mountain bike trails.
Immerse yourself in history during your visit. The land was once the hunting grounds of the Algonquin Native Americans and the famous Chieftain, Chief Noonday. You can also catch sight of a glacially carved kettle formation while you’re there: the Devil’s Superbowl.
Seasoned and novice campers alike can take their pick of 120 rustic or 200 modern campsites. The campground even has room for up to 25 equestrian sites.
There’s no time to horse around – sites fill up fast during the busy season!
Warren Dunes State Park
12032 Red Arrow Hwy, Sawyer, MI 49125J
Just 20 minutes north of the Michigan-Indiana border, Warren Dunes State Park is a world away from the hustle and bustle of Southwest Michigan’s urban areas.
The State Park is said to have one of the most spectacular views from 260 feet above Lake Michigan and is considered the unofficial gateway to western Michigan’s state parks.
Thrill-seekers will find heart pounding adventures with the opportunity to hang-glide (permit required) and get a bird’s eye view of the vast dune system. Bird enthusiasts can often catch glimpses of an array of bird species as the state park is often a stopover for migrating birds.
Don’t leave your tail-wagging friends at home for this one. Doggos are welcome at the 185 site modern campground as well as on forested trails, boardwalks and even their beaches! At the northernmost area of the swimming beach, there is a 2.5 mile stretch for Fido to roll in the sand and splash in the water.
New in 2023, track wheelchairs are available for visitors to borrow. The chairs are designed to allow users to easily master trails, sand and up to four inches of water.
Explore on, my fellow adventure seekers!
Eastside
Dotted across Michigan’s east side, you’ll find parks on Lake Huron, further inland, and even one on an island with views of Canada.
Belle Isle Park
99 Pleasure Dr, Detroit, MI 48207
Not many states can say they have a State Park on an Island, but Michigan can – in fact, it has two!
Belle Isle Park is a 985-acre State Park in the Detroit River near Downtown Detroit. Look to the North and you’ll get a peek of the Motor City, look to the South and wave at our Canadian neighbors.
The island has an incredible amount of natural beauty as well as historical and cultural enrichment for visitors.
Jump in and swim at designated beach areas, fish in the river and enjoy other recreational water activities around the park. Putt-putt your way to a hole-in-one on the island’s very own driving range and chip/putt golf course. Travel around the globe as you walk through America’s oldest aquarium.
Not sure how to get to the park? Don’t worry, it’s a breeze. Visitors with recreational passes are able to drive onto the island anytime. If you wish to visit by foot or bike, there is no cost to enter the park. Public transit also runs every 60-minutes, stopping in front of the aquarium if visitors choose to go that route.
Catch you on island time!
Sanilac Petroglyphs State Park
8251 Germania Rd, Cass City, MI 48726
Sanilac Petroglyphs State Park, best known for Michigan’s largest collection of early Native American teachings carved into stone, is tucked up in Michigan’s thumb. The park protects and interprets these carvings, called Ezhibiigaadek Asin or “written on stone.”
The State Park is open year round with free-entry.
Visitors can make the one-mile trek through peaceful forests to find remains of a 19th-century logging camp and 119-year old White Pine.
Those wanting to immerse themselves in history are asked to visit May – September, Wednesday – Sunday to visit the enclosed petroglyphs (see website for specific open dates and times).
Tawas Point State Park
686 Tawas Beach Rd, East Tawas, MI 48730
Tawas Point State Park, or Cape Cod of the Midwest, calls Lake Huron home. The state park encompasses 183 acres of serene nature at the end of a sand spit that forms Tawas Bay.
Plan a vacation or stay for the day at Tawas Point State Park’s campground. It hosts 193 modern campsites, two camper cabins and two mini cabins for rent.
Not only is it a popular destination because of its warm, shallow water and bird migration patterns, but the area also attracts maritime buffs from near and far. Visitors can opt for a guided tour of the lighthouse museum and take the 85-stair climb to the top for breathtaking views of the surrounding Tawas area.
Whether you’re a lighthouse lover, bird-watcher or you’re just here to swim, Tawas Point State Park will be an eastside destination you’ll visit over and over again.
William G Milliken State Park and Harbor
1900 Atwater St, Detroit, MI 48207
In the heart of Detroit lies William G Milliken State Park and Harbor. This small, but mighty park provides a 31-acre green oasis in the midst of the busy and bustling city.
To many visitors, this is just another park for a picnic. But in 2009, the park started an initiative to demonstrate how the wetland area acts as a filtration system, returning clean water back to the Detroit River.
Winding through the park, visitors will find bike trails and the Riverwalk Path to explore the greenery.
The State Harbor provides picnic tables, grills, showers and even a laundry facility at the park.
Round out your experience at the State Park with some harbor fishing or watch boats go in and out at the 52-slip marina.
Let’s Go Up North
Where is “up north,” you ask? Honestly, even though we are Hey Michigan, we don’t have a dog in this fight. Up North is what you make of it. But in this instance, it’s those parks that are north and pretty far from the nearest city – to give you that real wilderness feel.
Mackinac Island State Park
P.O. Box 370, Mackinac Island, MI 49757
Locals live a quieter life than most and you’ll discover why almost as soon as you step onto Mackinac Island State Park. Horses and bikes have been the only mode of transportation since 1989, making the island way of life much simpler.
While the entire island isn’t part of the State Park, more than 80% of it lies within the park’s boundaries.
Geek out about nature while you’re on the island. Explore high limestone bluffs, vistas of sparkling water, vibrant forests and mystical geological formations.
Bike around the island to visit historical sites such as Fort Mackinac and natural wonders such as Arch Rock.
If history and nature isn’t for you, walk the streets of Mackinac to do some shopping.
Unlike most Michigan State Parks, Mackinac Island State Park does not require a recreational pass. Instead, the easiest, most cost effective way to get to the island is to catch a ferry out of Mackinaw City or St. Ignace.
There’s truly something for everyone at Mackinac Island State Park. Most importantly, don’t forget to take home some fudge!
Wilderness State Park
903 Wilderness Park Dr, Carp Lake, MI 49718
Wilderness State Park is just a stone’s throw away from Mackinaw City, sitting on over 10,000 acres of beautiful Michigan land. The acreage curves along 26-miles of Lake Michigan shoreline.
Explore over 20 miles of trails, whether you’re an experienced hiker or just want to leisurely stroll through nature.
Wilderness State Park is just one of a handful of parks throughout Michigan to have a designated dark sky preserve that offers stellar stargazing!
With so much undeveloped land at Wilderness State Park, they offer unique camping opportunities unlike other state parks in Michigan.
Of the 259 campsites available, there are options ranging from traditional modern to rustic sites, walk-in tent sites and much more.
Explore the wilderness like never before.
Ludington State Park
8800 W M-116, Ludington, MI 49431
Winding through sand dunes along lake Michigan you’ll find M-116 and at the end of the road you’ll find one of “Up North’s” most popular destinations waiting for you: Ludington State Park. Situated between Hamlin Lake and Lake Michigan, this state park is home to 355 campsites.
Ludington State Park does not lack things to do for those who want to sit back and relax or even for those looking for adventure.
Explorers can hike the 21-miles of marked trails (Lost Lake is a personal favorite), walk or bike out to the iconic Big Sable Point Lighthouse or fish at the Dam.
If you’re looking for some R&R, leisurely float down the Big Sable River or sit at one of two well-known beaches. The park’s best kept secret is the beach across the Dam.
Watch for deer, raccoon and other wildlife while you’re there. Don’t forget to make a stop at the camp store before you go to satisfy that sweet-tooth with a selection of candy and ice cream.
Note: The north side of park (just across the Big Sable River) is under major renovation and will be closed until July 1st, 2025. The Southside of the park and visitors center will be open to the public during renovations with street parking along M-116.
Hartwick Pines State Park
3612 State Park Dr, Grayling, MI 49738
Hartwick Pines State Park, one of the largest state parks in Michigan, is almost smack dab in the middle of Northern Michigan. The park proudly preserves some of the last remaining old-growth pine forests in Michigan.
Each year the park draws visitors to the Hartwick Pines Logging Museum. The Museum aims to showcase the history behind the Michigan logging and lumber industry. Spend a couple hours getting lost in Michigan’s history and a recreation of the original camp structures.
Visitors can enjoy one of the 100 modern campsites or a year-round rustic cabin as well as a public picnic area, boat launch and 21 miles of year-round trails.
Whether you’re a winter fanatic and love to snowshoe and ski or prefer hunting, fishing and bird-watching in the fall, there’s something for everyone to appreciate.
Petoskey State Park
2475 M-119 Hwy, Petoskey, MI 49770
Just a few miles from Petoskey and Harbor Springs, Petoskey State Park is a favorite stop for beachgoers, campers, and anyone hoping to score a few Petoskey stones along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
The park offers a full mile of sandy beach, two modern campgrounds, and a couple of scenic trails—including the popular Old Baldy Trail, which leads up to a dune-top view you’ll want to linger at.
Outside the park, cyclists can hop on the 26-mile Little Traverse Wheelway or explore the North Western State Trail that runs south toward Mackinac City.
One seasonal heads-up: the day-use parking lot often closes in winter and early spring due to snow and sand drifts. Plan accordingly.
The One, The Only Upper Peninsula
Say Ya to Da U.P. at these other worldly Michigan State Parks. You will not find anything like these under the (Mackinac) bridge!
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
33303 Headquarters Rd, Ontonagon, MI 49953
Who says you need to leave the state of Michigan to hike a mountain? Travel to the Upper Peninsula for breathtaking views of Michigan’s mountains in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park .
The mountains, fondly known as “the Porkies”, span 60,000 acres near the Lake Superior shoreline. With stunning views at every turn, you’ll never want to leave.
Some visit-worthy sights to take in while you’re there include the Lake of Clouds and Persque Isle River Corridor.
Winter takes center stage in the Porkies. When the snow falls, it turns into a winter-lovers haven.
Visitors can bring their own winter sport equipment or rent cross country, downhill skis and snowboards. Ski or snowboard newbie? No problem! Book lessons and you’ll be a pro in no time.
Come back each season to enjoy the beauty Michigan’s largest state park has to offer.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park
41382 West M-123, Paradise, MI 49768
Experience the awe of the state’s most iconic waterfalls, Tahquamenon Falls State Park. The park covers more than 50,000 acres and stretches nearly 13-miles in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Not only is Tahquamenon Falls the largest waterfall in Michigan, but it’s also one of the largest in the US East of the Mississippi!
If you’re feeling brave, rent a rowboat and paddle to see the lower falls. While you’re hiking the falls, keep an eye out for wildlife roaming the woods. Black bear, coyote, otter and even moose can be spotted near the water.
Visitors can visit the Fact Shack before starting their adventure to learn more about the Falls as well as borrow wheelchairs or a track chair to allow those with mobility challenges to enjoy nature as well.
Palms Book State Park
M-149 (a mile north of the Co Rd 455 junction), Manistique, MI 49854
Cross one more “Michigan’s Largest” off your list with a visit to Palms Book State Park, home to Michigan’s largest freshwater spring. Kitsch-iti-kipi, or the “Big Spring,” is known as one of the most alluring attractions in Michigan. The spring spans 200-feet across and 40-feet deep.
The crystal clear water and the ability to easily see to the bottom leaves visitors shocked and awestruck. While fishing and swimming are strictly prohibited, you can view the spring from a self-operated raft.
Know Before You Go
Wondering how to get into the most visit-worthy state parks?
Michigan residents can purchase Michigan State Park recreational passes when they renew their license plate tabs yearly for an additional $14. You can also purchase one directly at the State Parks for $19.
Non-residents are able to purchase recreational passes for $40 — Passes are available for purchase at State Parks upon arrival.
Passes allow visitors access to State Parks during any open hours.
Over 100 State Parks call Michigan home — 103 to be exact! With a list that size, it’s no wonder that picking which to visit is a doozy.
Did you know that Michigan claims the number eight spot for the most state parks in the US?
Sleeping Bear Dunes comes out on top as the most-visited park in Michigan. But it’s a National Lakeshore, so we had to leave it in our Michigan National Parks list. Even though it didn’t make our list (this time), it’s a top-contender!
Where Shall We Go Next?
We may be a bit bias, but Michigan is truly the most beautiful state. Relax and enjoy serene nature, walk miles and miles of hiking trails or dig your toes in the sand.
From the sandy lakeshores to the old-growing pines, there’s something for everyone at the Best State Parks in Michigan.
Which park should we visit next?
