The 25 Best State Parks in Michigan

Michigan offers 103 state parks, each exhibiting its own natural beauty, diverse ecosystem and abundant wildlife. Dubbed the “Great Lakes State,” Michigan has shores touching four of the five Great Lakes and boast an additional 11,000 inland lakes for boaters and swimmers to enjoy. Many of Michigan’s state parks have historic significance dating back centuries, which can be seen in the form of storied forts and postcard-worthy lighthouses. Plus, the Northern Lights often make an appearance. It’s no wonder the state welcomes an average 30 million visitors each year. What’s more, Michigan residents can visit the parks as often as they want free of charge after the purchase of a Recreation Passport, available for $13 annually.

Based on visitor recommendations, unique features, and park attractions, we’ve compiled the 25 best state parks in Michigan to help you plan your visit.

1. Mackinac Island State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Passport holders

Mackinac Island State Park was initially established as the country’s second national park after Yellowstone National Park. In 1895, the land was transferred to the state, becoming the first state park in Michigan. The park’s 1,800 acres make up 80 percent of Mackinac Island and encompass majestic limestone bluffs, lush forests and historic landmarks such as Fort Mackinac and Fort Holmes. Enjoy the peaceful tranquility of this vehicle-free island by biking or hiking one of the island’s five trails. A popular trail is Mackinac Island Outer Loop offering a scenic, eight-mile circular route around the island’s perimeter.

2. Palms Book State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Located on Michigan’s eastern Upper Peninsula, Palms Book State Park draws in over 60,000 visitors each year to see Kitch-iti-kipi, the state’s largest freshwater spring, measuring 200 feet wide and 40 feet deep. This crystal-clear spring pumps over 10,000 gallons per minute and maintains a constant 45-degree temperature even throughout the cold winter months. Twenty-minute raft rides across the spring are offered free of charge and afford passengers a uninhibited view of ancient fallen trees and plenty of large trout below water’s surface. Campers will have to go elsewhere for overnight accommodations, as part of the 1929 deal in the sale of the property to the state was a ban on camping.

3. Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission:  $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Tahquamenon Falls State Park sits in the northeastern segment of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. With most of the park’s 50,000 acres remaining undeveloped, it’s no wonder as many as 580,000 outdoor enthusiasts visit each year. The main draw to this natural wonderland is the Tahquamenon River’s famous waterfalls. Upper Falls, boasting a 50-foot drop across 200 feet, is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. An estimated 50,000 gallons of water cascades over these falls every second. Just four miles downstream is Lower Falls, a collection of five smaller falls split by a small island within the river. Hikers can choose from six trails throughout the park covering a total of 22 miles.

4. Ludington State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Ludington State Park ’s 53,000-acre natural wonderland sits nestled between the eastern shores of Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake. Big Sable Point Lighthouse, with its black and white stripes, rises proudly from Lake Michigan’s shoreline. This iconic structure dates back to 1876, and visitors can book a tour to learn about its rich history. The park hosts a diverse array of ecosystems, from sand dunes and lush forests to marshlands and wetlands. In addition to more than 21 miles of hiking trails throughout its eight marked trails, adventurists can also fish, swim and canoe on both Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake, or spend the day tubing on the Big Sable River.

5. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Locally known as “The Porkies,” Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park encompasses 60,000 acres of hidden lakes and lush forests on Lake Superior’s shoreline in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. In fact, in 1945, the park was established to protect the area’s large amount of old-growth forest, mostly the maple-hemlock variety. Park activities include boating, swimming along the one-mile stretch of sandy beach, and fishing for natural brook trout. Along with rugged backcountry camping locations, the park has several yurts and lodges available to book.

6. Grand Haven State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Grand Haven State Park consists entirely of beach sand, making it one of the most unique state parks in Michigan. Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan in Grand Haven, the park is a beach-goers paradise throughout its 48 acres. Along with sunbathing and swimming, campers will delight in the 174-site campground. Additional activities and amenities include a fishing pier, a playground and a picnic area.

7. Leelanau State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Visitors to Leelanau State Park soon recognize the meaning behind the park’s Native American name, which translates to “A Land of Delight.” Campers can head to the northern end of the park to pitch a tent at one of 55 rustic campsites or choose from the two rustic cabins available to rent. A highlight of Leelanau is the climb up the tower of the Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum, which leads to panoramic views of Lake Michigan. The southern portion of the park offers 8.5 miles of hiking trails through mixed terrain of mature hardwood forests, rolling hills and wetlands with pockets of grassy meadows. The outer portions of the park also offer wide sandy beaches and 1.5 miles of pristine shoreline.

8. Warren Dunes State Park

Hours: 8am – 10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Warren Dunes State Park, located on the eastern shores of Lake Michigan, attracts nearly one million visitors annually to its 1,952 acres, making it one of the most popular state parks in Michigan. In addition to lakeshore beach activities, campground sites and six miles of hiking trails, visitors come to experience the park’s extensive sand dunes, making it a popular location for sand boarding. Park dunes include Mount Fuller, Pikes Peak, Mount Edwards and its most impressive dune, Tower Hill, which soars 240 feet above Lake Michigan.

9. Wilderness State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Situated in a secluded corner of the Upper Peninsula, Wilderness State Park beckons nature lovers with more than 10,500 acres of dense forest and mature hardwood trees. Hikers can trek through 16 miles of trails, and choose from 250 campsites or nine rustic cabins. This forested state park is home to plenty of intriguing wildlife, such as black bears, beavers, bobcats and mink. Wilderness State Park isn’t just about its woodlands; the park boasts 26 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline for beachcombers to enjoy.

10. Petoskey State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Petoskey State Park sits on 303 acres on Lake Michigan in Emmet County. Those searching for Michigan’s State stone, the Petoskey stone, are likely to discover one while strolling the park’s mile-long sandy beach. The park is surrounded by vegetated sand dunes best explored via The Old Baldy Trail, a short half-mile loop to the top of Old Baldy Dune for epic views of the surrounding area. Take the Portage Trail for a one-mile out-and back trek through an area of wooded dunes.

11. Silver Lake State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

With nearly 3,000 acres bordering both Lake Michigan and Silver Lake, visitors have their choice of shorelines to explore within Silver Lake State Park. But sandy beaches aren’t the only attraction; over 2,000 acres are composed of sand dunes, providing ample outdoor adventure options. The park is the only sand dune riding opportunity east of the Mississippi, with a specific designated area in the park’s northern section. Flat Tire Bike season runs December through March, and catching sunsets from atop the dunes is always sure to please. You can also enjoy a horseback ride along the shore, or book a tour of Little Sable Point Lighthouse, built in 1870

12. Saugatuck Dunes State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

This 1,000 acre park, with its 2.5 miles of Lake Michigan beachfront, was once part of inventor Dorr E. Felt’s estate. This former summer retreat is available for visitors to tour. Aside from the Felt Mansion, most of Saugatuck Dunes State Park remains undeveloped. The most popular among the 14 hiking trails is Saugatuck Dunes South Trail, a scenic 5.2-mile circular route that takes about two hours to complete. Those who have done the hike recommend following the trail counterclockwise to avoid the steep incline up the dune.

13. Muskegon State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

This former lumber mill site was purchased by the state in 1923 to become Muskegon State Park. This 1,233-acre park is nestled on the eastern shores of Lake Michigan. Sunbathers will appreciate the three miles of sandy beaches: two miles hugging the shore of Lake Michigan, and one along the edge of Muskegon Lake. The park’s most prominent feature is the mill’s original blockhouse, which sits on the highest point of Muskegon County, affording scenic views in all directions. Additional park amenities include two campgrounds, a picnic area and six hiking trails ranging from an easy three-mile out-and-back Devil’s Kitchen Trail to a moderate 4.5-mile Lost Lake Trail Loop.

14. Tawas Point State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Tawas Point State Park sits on the western shores of Lake Huron. The park’s 183 acres encompass the end of a sand split forming Tawas Bay, and is often hailed as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest”. The shoreline waters are shallow and warm, making this a great beach destination for families with younger kids. After a dip in the lake, visitors can follow the nature path along the scenic Lake Huron Trail or access the nearby Tawas Bay multi-use trails connected to the park.

15. Fayette Historic State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

History buffs are drawn to Fayette Historic State Park, where 20 original structures of an 1867 smelting town await exploration. The 724-acre lakeside park is located in Michigan’s upper peninsula and offers captivating clear blue waters off Sandy Bay. Boaters can dock at the park’s marina for daytime or overnight stays, while other overnight guests can sleep comfortably under the stars at the campsite, which boasts electric hook-ups and updated bathing facilities. In addition, hikers can stretch their legs along five miles of trails traversing both beach and forests.

16. Seven Lakes State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

With a name like Seven Lakes State Park, it should come as no surprise that this natural playground is a favorite among those who love water sports. Two hundred and thirty acres of the park is covered by water, with boat launches, fishing spots and sandy beaches all available. For those who prefer dry land, Seven Lakes State Park has four marked trails that traverse a varied landscape, cutting across farmland, through forests and over hillsides.

17. Hoffmaster State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Hoffmaster State Park ’s 1,200 acres encompass forested dunes and three miles of sandy beach on Lake Michigan shores. The park was established in 1963 and named after Percy James Hoffmaster, considered the founder of the Michigan State Park system. The Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center features an interactive exhibit depicting the unique sand dune ecosystem within the park. There are 10 miles of hiking trails, including the Dune Climb Stairway that ascends the park’s highest dune.

18. Clear Lake State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Boasting a 133-acre pristine lake and plenty of lush forests, Clear Lake State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Its 300-foot sandy beach entices swimmers and beach-goers, while anglers can fish for trout and small-mouth bass. This secluded retreat is located on 290 acres within Mackinaw State Park in Michigan’s lower peninsula and provides an array of hiking options. Clear Lake Trail’s 2.2-mile loop trail is a popular route with park visitors looking for an easy trek. Other ways to enjoy the lake include canoeing, kayaking and row boating. Boaters can either bring their own vessel or rent on site.

19. Hartwick Pines State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Hartwick Pines State Park is one of the largest state parks in the Upper Peninsula. Within its 9,762 acres are 49 acres of old-growth white pine forest exhibiting some of the last remaining forests of its type in the state. Nature lovers will appreciate the 21 miles of year-round trails perfect for hikers, mountain bikers, cross-country skiers and snowshoers. Overnight accommodations include a 100-site campground and rustic cabin for rent which sleeps six.

20. Fort Wilkins Historic State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Fort Wilkins Historic State Park attractions include historic landmarks like the former military outpost dating back to 1844, and the 19th-century Copper Harbor Lighthouses, two of the earliest Lake Superior lighthouses. This park comprises 700 acres and is the northernmost park in the state of Michigan. For outdoor adventure, Fort Wilkins-Foot Trail offers a four-mile multi-use path for hiking, biking or cross-country skiing, and Lake Fanny Hooe is fully stocked with walleye and splake for fishing enthusiasts.

21. Port Crescent State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Port Crescent State Park sits at the tip of the “thumb” on the Michigan map. This former lumber town was destroyed by a fire in 1871, and its original chimney is the only remaining relic. Today this 640-acre park on Lake Huron’s shores attracts outdoor enthusiasts with seven miles of multipurpose trails. Its most popular trail is the Port Crescent State Park Trail’s two-mile loop. Overnight adventurers have 142 campsites to choose from, where they just might catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

22. Fisherman’s Island State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Situated on six miles of Lake Michigan’s northeastern shoreline, Fisherman’s Island State Park encompasses 2,678 acres of mostly undeveloped land. Fisherman’s Island itself is located 900 feet off the mainland and, depending on water levels, the island is sometimes connected by a land bridge. Much of the park’s terrain is covered in rolling dunes forested by birch, maple and aspen trees where visitors can picnic, swim or hike three miles of trails. Eighty rustic campsites are available to book with many dotted along the shoreline.

23. Traverse City State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Traverse City State Park is perched on the Lake Michigan shoreline and is only two miles from downtown Traverse City, making it a great day trip destination. Though this 47-acre park is considered an urban park, it offers 350 campsites equipped with electricity and updated bathroom facilities. In addition to camping, visitors enjoy the two-mile out-and-back multipurpose trail, as well as  sunbathing and swimming along the park’s quarter mile of sandy beach.

24. Charles Mears State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Considered one of Michigan’s hidden gems, Charles Mears State Park encompasses 50 acres on Lake Michigan’s shoreline and makes for a great summer getaway. Mears Beach Walk is a one-mile out-and-back boardwalk with spectacular lakeside views. Campers can enjoy a beachfront campsite complete with electric hookup, modern bathrooms and even Wifi. There’s no need to bring recreational equipment, as canoes, kayaks and paddle boards are available for rent. Anglers can fish off the pier for bluegill, brown trout and large-mouth bass. And for those who need a taste of civilization, nearby Pentwater offers plenty of restaurants and shopping just a short walk or bike ride away.

25. Interlochen State Park

Hours: 8am–10pm daily, year round
Admission: $11 per day; free for Recreation Pass holders

Interlochen State Park is Michigan’s first established state park. Within its 187 acres on the northwestern portion of the Michigan mitten are an array of outdoor activities. The park is home to two lakes ideal for summertime fun. Both Duck Lake and Green Lake have sandy beaches and are suitable for swimming. The lakes also have kayak and boat launches, and are fully stocked with pike, bass and bluegill for casting a line.