Your Ultimate Guide To State Parks In Michigan

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!

Palms Book State Park, Thompson, Manistique, MI 49854, USA

ehrlif / Getty Images

Location: Manistique, Michigan

Wow Factor: Palms Book is home to one of the most iconic natural wonders in Michigan, Kitch-iti-kipi, also known as the Big Spring.

Need to know: Measuring 200 feet across and 40 feet deep, Kitch-iti-kipi is the largest freshwater spring in Michigan.

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.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park, 41382 W M-123, Paradise, MI 49768, USA

Ali Majdfar / Getty Images

Location: Paradise, Michigan

Wow Factor: Another crown jewel of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Tahquamenon Falls State Park measures over 50,000 acres, and features one of the state's most famous waterfalls.

Need to know: Tahquamenon Falls is most popular in the summer and fall, but it's arguably most enchanting during the winter -- if you can brave the elements!

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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Porcupine Mountains, Carp Lake Township, MI 49953, USA

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Location: Ontonagon / Gogebic Counties, Michigan

Wow Factor: Measuring nearly 60,000 acres in size, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is the largest state park in Michigan.

Need to know: For the park's most famous view, you'll want to take the Porcupine Mountains-Escarpment Trail.

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!

South Higgins Lake State Park, 106 State Park Dr, Roscommon, MI 48653, USA

Robin Secord / Google Reviews

Location: Roscommon, Michigan

Wow Factor: South Higgins Lake offers crystal-clear water that's perfect for swimming in during the warmer months.

Need to know: Be sure to bring your metal detector -- you might just find some treasures along the shore!

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.

Wilderness State Park, 903 Wilderness Park Dr, Carp Lake, MI 49718, USA

Edward Pierz / Google Reviews

Location: Carp Lake, Michigan

Wow Factor: You'll be awe-inspired as you watch the sunset over Lake Michigan.

Need to know: Wilderness State Park offers a whopping 10,500 acres of campsites!

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.

Ludington State Park - Hamlin Lake Beach, Free Soil, MI 49411, USA

Jessica Friske / Google Reviews

Location: Ludington, Michigan

Wow Factor: Breathtaking views of Lake Michigan for as far as the eye can see!

Need to know: The park boasts a famous 18-mile trail where encounters with wildlife aren't uncommon.

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.

Ludington State Park Beach, 8800 M-116, Ludington, MI 49431, USA

Andrew Bearre / Google Reviews

Location: Laingsburg, Michigan

Wow Factor: This lovely local park is home to over 288 unique animal species.

Need to know: Hiking trails will lead you through hardwood forests, pine trees, and prairie grasses. Don't forget your hiking boots!

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.

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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.

Warren Dunes State Park, 12032 Red Arrow Hwy, Sawyer, MI 49125, USA

Kaleb Taylor / Google Reviews

Location: Sawyer, Michigan

Wow Factor: Breathtaking views of Lake Michigan's eastern shore.

Need to know: It's the most popular of Michigan's state parks, receiving upwards of one million visitors per year.

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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Holland State Park - Macatawa Campground, 2215 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland, MI 49424, USA

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Location: Holland, Michigan

Wow Factor: Access to stunning Lake Michigan shoreline.

Need to know: The park is home to two large campgrounds and an accessible playground.

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!

Mackinac Island State Park, 7029 Huron Rd, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA

Marjorie Morris / AllTrails

Location: Mackinac Island, Michigan

Wow Factor: Stunning lakeshore views and historic sites galore.

Need to know: Mackinac Island State Park was the first state park established in Michigan.

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!

Presque Isle Park, Peter White Dr, Marquette, MI 49855, USA

jay westervelt / AllTrails

Location: Marquette, Michigan

Wow Factor: A breathtaking 323-acre forested peninsula with views of Lake Superior.

Need to know: Frederick Law Olmstead, famous landscape architect of Central Park, visited Presque Isle Park and realized, given its stunning beauty, that absolutely nothing was needed. This rugged beauty is what draws visitors from near and far.

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.

Clark W Griswold / AllTrails

Location: Posen, Michigan

Wow Factor: Nestled on the lakeshore of Lake Huron, this park offers a treasure trove of undeveloped natural beauty.

Need to know: Weather-related events can cause park closures, so it's always good to double-check before your trip.

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.

Fayette Historic State Park, 4785 II Rd, Garden, MI 49835, USA

Kelsey Wilcox / AllTrails

Location: Garden, Michigan.

Wow Factor: This historic site is nestled on the shores of Big Bay de Noc of Lake.

Need to know: Between 1867 and 1891, Fayette Historic State Park served as a bustling industrial community.

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.

Duck Lake State Park, 4733 N Scenic Dr, Whitehall, MI 49461, USA

Rachel Kramer / flickr

Location: Muskegon County, Michigan

Wow Factor: Duck Lake State Park features a towering sand dune and a seemingly never-ending list of recreational adventures.

Need to know: This preserve is for day use only.

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.

William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor, 1900 Atwater St, Detroit, MI 48207, USA

A Healthier Michigan / flickr

Location: Detroit, Michigan

Wow Factor: Picture-perfect views of Windsor and the Detroit River.

Need to know: This public recreation area has picnic tables, grills, and is dog-friendly.

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!