Mackinac Island and 12 Great Michigan State Parks That Are Worth Visiting

Getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city life and revitalize your mind and body by spending some quality time in one of the following state parks in Mackinac Island. Its time to explore the most scenic places of Mackinac Island!

The downtown of Mackinac Island is the place for famous restaurants to get your taste buds dancing. One can also find famous fudge shops in the area for delicious ice creams and shakes. Art lovers will also love the downtown for its art galleries and variety of shops for souvenirs. Everything from the hand beaded garments to exotic paintings that depict the history of Mackinac Island, you will find them all in the museums of this Island. Get to know about the beauty of the butterfly and its species which are available in-depth in the two butterfly conservatories of the island. Exploring the Mackinac Island is easy as there are plenty of options like walk, bike, public and private transportation to take you through the town. You can also go for charter fishing or Geocaching for an adventure-filled day out in Mackinac Island. Explore some of the popular destinations of Mackinac Island like the Arch Rock, Round Island, The Mackinac Bridge and the Harbour. Visiting the Fort Mackinac is a must during your visit to Mackinac Island as it holds a historic significance and also a place to enjoy a panoramic view of the harbor.

Located alongside the south shore of lake superior you can see the indisputable beauty of this Michigan State Parks colorful sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, white birch trail, sand dunes, and beaches. It's yellow and red sandstone cliffs make it an interesting spot for geologists alongside the travelers and backpackers. There are over 100 miles of hiking trails and walking, where you can enjoy the top of the trails, overlook the miner's castle, chapel beach and more. Its 15 miles stretch of multicolored sandstone cliffs is worth a visit. Pictured Rock National Lakeshore is regarded as the country's first National Lakeshore and was established in the year 1966. Its enchanting fortress-like formations of the sandstone cliffs are formed by the actions of sea waves and ice. White-tailed deer, ducks, geese, and black bears are some of the wildlife you could spot in this national park.

Established in 1977, this national park is one of the most sought out tourists spots among the Michigan State Parks with the maximum number o white-tailed deer population. It encompasses 287 sq km stretch and has a long shoreline including the wilderness of the two islands North Manitou and South Manitou. Explorers can ferry to these islands from Leland up the coastline. One not only enjoys hurtling down the dunes but would also enjoy the bluffs, lakes, streams, and birch of its landscape. Kids and adults have lots of fun in this national park as it also has camping sites and picnic spots. A fascinating view of the Lake Michigan awaits the people who opt to climb the 200 ft dunes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Its Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive has remained timeless for its beautiful view lakes and dunes along its 12 km stretch.

It is a huge state park with an area of 5300 acres consisting of scenic sand dunes and beautiful lake views. It is situated between Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake. Ludington is one of the most sought out destinations of for its sandy beaches, iconic lighthouse, lush green forests, and scenic sand dunes. A visit to this park is a must to witness the beauty of several miles of wonderful shorelines across the State Park. Visitors can enjoy hiking in one of its eight trails which covers its 18 miles stretch. Get to know about the historical and natural facts about the Ludington State Park in the kiosks you will encounter en route while hiking. To relax after a hectic day heading out to the scheduled programs in the amphitheater at the Ludington State Park for some entertainment and fun is a great choice. A glimpse of the 112-foot long lighthouse in this s is a favorite amongst the visitors. If you do not prefer hiking, then you can choose canoeing or kayaking for a few hours of relaxed and rejuvenating time at the state park.

It encompasses a 48-acre area with beautiful sandy shorelines of Lake Michigan on the west and the Grand River on the north side of the park. Grand Haven State Park is a favorite destination for the tourists and visitors for it has camping, swimming, sunbathing, lighthouse, sandy beaches, and volleyball. Visiting Grand Haven State Park on your trip with families is just awesome for its well-maintained campgrounds and panoramic view of the Lake Michigan and Grand River in addition to other recreational activities of the park. This state park is a popular choice of the localities for its variety of outdoor recreational options including a soak in the waves of the sandy beaches. Enjoy your time by camping in one of its 174 campgrounds or rental houses for a surreal experience of the nature in Michigan. Playground for children and fishing is also great for families to be entertained.

Spread across an area of 60000 acres, this Michigan State Parks is one of the largest I the midwest. It is a favorite for the hikers as they get to see absolutely no traces of human development at the top of the summit. The Porcupine Mountains offers a splendor of nature with rolling views of mountains and dense forests for miles and miles. It is situated in Michigan's Upper Peninsula offering solitude for the tourists with its majestic woods and wild waterfalls. It encompasses boundless recreation for visitors including backpacking, fishing, camping, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and biking. It also a delight for the photographers as it has abundant wildlife and mesmerizing views like a lake of clouds and numerous waterfalls. Alongside its huge wilderness, there is a beautifully carved travel route to the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. This Michigan State Park introduces the tourists touts a rich heritage of wilderness alongside the oldest hardwood-hemlock forest.

This is a favorite spot for the localities as this Michigan State Park encompasses a 49 acre of dense forest with old pines and logging museum. Accredited as the third-largest state park of Michigan, It is located in the grayling of MI. Hartwick Pines State Park encompasses rolling hills built of the deposits of ancient glaciers is a scenic beauty and a delight for the photographers. Its picnic spots and camping grounds are a favorite for the families as they are well maintained with tables for relaxing and drinking fountains. Mountain biking, fishing, hiking, and biking are other recreational attractions in this state park. Guided tours are arranged by the authorities of the Michigan State Parks for schools and groups at additional cost.

Spread across 2893 acre, Bay City State Park is located on the shoreline of Saginaw Bay of Michigan. One of the major attractions of this Michigan State Park is the presence of the largest remaining freshwater, The Tobico Marsh. On summer weekends the visitors can expect some engaging entertainment in the visitor center of this state park. Its long walking trails are a pleasure on any given day. Give a visit to Bay City State Park for lots of exciting recreational options like swimming, hiking, fishing, bicycling and camping. Other facilities for the convenience of the tourists are modern toilets, mini-cabins, sanitary dump-station, playground, and amphitheater. This state park is renowned for bird watching during the migratory season. Exploring the place with the guidance of the naturalist can be arranged through the Michigan State Parks authorities for groups. It also owns three observation towers making it a great joy to watch the wildlife species in this area of Mackinac Island.

Warren Dunes State Park is a famous recr4eational spot of amongst the Michigan State Parks spread over 2000 acres. This state park is situated in the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. This park attracts over one million footfalls annually due to its attractive and serene sand dunes and sandy beaches. Its shorelines stretch over 3 miles making it a wonderful pathway for an evening walk. There are also 6 miles of hiking trails with the scenic view of its beaches. The fact that the State Park is just 2 hours drive from Chicago, Kalamazoo, and Indiana, it attracts more tourists. Another interesting feature of this Michigan State Park is its larger sand dunes which offer a great view of Lake Michigan.

Located on Lake Huron in northern Michigan, Tawas Point State Park surrounds an area of 183 acres with lots of recreational activities for the localities as well as tourists. This Michigan State Park is nicknamed as Cape Cod of the Mid West. This place is liked by the visitors for its awesome bird watching views and sights. Many tourists are attracted to this state park as it is just an hour drive from the Tri-Cities. Swimming is a favorite activity in this state park as the water is shallow and warm. The Tawas Point Light House is another important attraction for the visitors here apart from its walking trails and picnic spots. A new introduction for the tourists is a camper cabin located at Tawas Bay for spending nights around this State Park comfortably. It also accommodates two miles of sandy beach which is great for swimming and relaxing around the shoreline. Fishing is also a favorite activity amidst the visitors here. Your visit to Michigan is incomplete without enjoying the beauty of the famous Michigan State Park, Tawas Point State Park.

This Michigan State Park is an island in Detroit River encompasses 982 acres. A visit to this state park will take you through the beauty of nature with a rich history within. It houses the oldest aquarium in the country. Enjoy relaxed weekends at the beach in Belle Isle while you grab an ice cream from the nearby food truck. Other amusements including canoeing, kayaking and pedal boats for rent with safety equipment for a family adventure. Driving along the lakeside and hiking on its trails are also a prominent attraction amidst the visitors here. Reach the Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse by hiking for an excellent view. Belle Isle has considered a family safe place for it is a great picnic spot for the localities as it has a lot of areas covered with grassy land. Be it for adventurous activities or a peaceful outdoors Belle Isle is a great place to be in Michigan.

It is a huge 46,179-acre Michigan State Park and only the state largest in the state. For those wanting a chilled out day out away from the hustle and bustle of city life, exploring the Tahquamenon falls deep inside the forests of this state park will be tranquil. It encompasses the beautiful Tahquamenon river and brown waterfalls which is the main center of attraction in this huge state park. A paved pathway to the upper falls is handicap accessible and has a huge deck and fire spot along with scattered tables and chairs to relax and rejuvenate in the love of nature. A ferry to the island through row boat gives you a view of different waterfalls and lower falls. It is a perfect destination for many vacationers who spend time in Michigan State Parks for it offers an array of recreational activities including fishing, canoeing, nature study, backpacking, photography, camping, and hiking. It is a picturesque spot for its beautiful fall colors making it a great spot for a photographer. There are four campgrounds for tourists delight and one can also enjoy skiing during winters.

Situated 10 miles north of Hancock, This Michigan State Park sits on Lake Superior to the north of Keweenaw Peninsula. Its sandy beaches are a great attraction for photographers. An evening walk on these sandy beaches is a joy besides hiking on this state park. This park hosts a 100 campsites which are close to the water which is a delight amongst itself for nature lovers. Visitors for this state park during winters is more as there is ice formation which draws the attraction of snowshoers and cross-country skiers. Sandy beaches on the summer and skiing in the winters. Hence there is something for every season in this State Park of Michigan. Not just this, visitors also have an array of activities awaiting them like fishing, windsurfing, berry picking, campgrounds and a lot more. Tourists really enjoy its campgrounds which are equipped with showers and bathrooms. There are many trails near the park henceforth it is a favorite for bike riders.

Over the past century, the state parks of Michigans have expanded enormously making it a great place for families and individuals to spend some quality time. The above-mentioned state parks are some of the must-see places at Michigan, which you should visit for an awesome feel of nature and its amusements. These natural wonders are places filled with historic lighthouses, beautiful trails and museums. Get yourself amazed with the unspoiled beauty of mother nature.

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