Michigan State Parks, Trails and Waterways

Michigan State Parks, Trails and Waterways Conserving, protecting, and managing Michigan's natural and cultural resources.
103 state parks ~ 1000+ boat launches ~ 82 harbors ~ 13700 miles of trails

Let's say you're going for a hike on some of Michigan's incredible trails. You're jamming along to your music (or podcas...
06/06/2026

Let's say you're going for a hike on some of Michigan's incredible trails. You're jamming along to your music (or podcast) as you soak in the surrounding beauty. What do you see? And what's on your playlist?

Find your favorite new trail by visiting the đź”— in the comments.


đź“·: Photography by Aubry Healy

Picture this: you’re heading to your favorite state park for a sunny afternoon picnic. You put out the invite and before...
06/05/2026

Picture this: you’re heading to your favorite state park for a sunny afternoon picnic. You put out the invite and before you know it, 40 of your closest friends are coming. Sounds fun, right? But here’s something many people don’t realize: You might need a Use Permit to legally host your event in the park.

“So…what is a Use Permit, and why would I need one?” A Use Permit is a quick form that helps us understand what you’re planning. It lets us make sure the park has the space, facilities, and staff needed to keep everything running smoothly for your group and for all the other visitors enjoying the park that day.

Generally, you’ll need a Use Permit for events like family reunions, birthday parties, weddings, races, and other gatherings. But, they’re also required for activities like placing a geocache, doing scientific research, commercial photography (yes, family and senior photos count!), selling goods, and more.

You can learn more by checking the link in the comments.

Tag or share this with others that might need more info about Use Permits.

Things you’ll want to know if you’re traveling to a Michigan state park beach this summer. 1. Swimming in buoyed swim ar...
06/04/2026

Things you’ll want to know if you’re traveling to a Michigan state park beach this summer.

1. Swimming in buoyed swim areas gives you a safer experience. These areas have added safety measures and visual cues, helping you stay clear of hidden hazards.
2. Always check the beach flags in buoyed swim areas in a state park along the Great Lakes. They show the current conditions: green = low hazard, yellow = medium hazard and red = high hazard. Double-red flags = water access is closed. Entering the water at that time is against the law.
3. Be aware that there are no beach guards in state parks. Swim at your own risk and always prioritize safety.
4. Never swim alone or let children swim alone.
5. Keep a close watch on children and less experienced swimmers. Stay within arm's reach, have them wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets, be conscious of their limits and take frequent breaks.
6. Know that water currents near piers, breakwalls and outlets of rivers can be extremely hazardous.
7. Be cautious of cold-water temperatures. Cold water can cause shock or hypothermia, making it hard for you to breathe and increase your risk of drowning.

The Great Lakes are a large, powerful water systems that hold more than 20% of the world's fresh water. Strong currents can catch even the most experienced swimmer off guard. Stay safe out there!

Learn more about beach safety by checking the link.

Have you visited the Belle Isle Nature Center? Open later during the summer...just for you!
06/03/2026

Have you visited the Belle Isle Nature Center? Open later during the summer...just for you!

Are you staying closer to home and having a staycation this summer? Well, we know a few places that you might want to ch...
06/03/2026

Are you staying closer to home and having a staycation this summer? Well, we know a few places that you might want to check out!

With over 100 state parks and more than 140 state forest campgrounds, there's always something to do in Michigan's great outdoors. If you're not sure which park closest to you, visit the link in the comments...or just ask. We're happy to help!

đź“·: Winsome Glimpse Photography - Social Ambassador

Come wander with us where the wild things bloom! Join us and our partner Allegan County Parks, Recreation, & Tourism for...
05/30/2026

Come wander with us where the wild things bloom!

Join us and our partner Allegan County Parks, Recreation, & Tourism for a guided lupine bloom and Karner blue butterfly walk at the Allegan State Game Area on Saturday, June 6.

You'll have a chance to explore the habitat during peak wild lupine bloom and learn about the federally endangered Karner blue butterfly, one of the rarest butterflies in North America.

Event is free, but we encourage you to register since space may be limited. Check comments for the link.

Water, sunscreen, bug spray and closed-toe shoes are encouraged.

How was your day? Did you explore a state park? If so, we want to hear from you! It will only take a few minutes to comp...
05/29/2026

How was your day? Did you explore a state park? If so, we want to hear from you! It will only take a few minutes to complete a short survey to let us know more about your visit. You can find it in the comments.

The canoes and kayaks are lined up and ready for another great summer at Ludington State Park.  Checkout your local park...
05/28/2026

The canoes and kayaks are lined up and ready for another great summer at Ludington State Park. Checkout your local park for all the outdoor activities they offer.

Sunrise over the lake, calm water, and endless ways to get outside and enjoy everything a Michigan summer has to offer.

05/28/2026

Tell us about your favorite geocache you’ve found! If you haven't found one, now's your chance! Go to the link in the comments and explore the Michigan state park geotour series: A park for every season. There’s a bunch of geocaches in the series and you can earn some pretty cool swag!

Happy caching!

Address

525 West Allegan Street
Lansing, MI
48933

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm
Saturday 8am - 5pm
Sunday 8am - 5pm

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