Sure, the Motor City is often cited for its importance in the auto industry and its history as a bustling manufacturing hub. While we’re undeniably proud of these achievements and accomplishments, we Detroiters can still appreciate the great outdoors. In fact, our region is home to some of the prettiest and most underrated natural destinations in Michigan.
When you’re in the mood for an adventure, here are nine recreation areas and state parks to visit in Detroit and its neighboring communities that will give you the escape you’ve been searching for.
1. William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor
Milliken State Park Lighthouse, 42°19'57.0"N 83°01'28.8"W, Atwater St, Detroit, MI 48207, USA
Milliken State Park is unique in that it’s Michigan’s first state park to be situated in an urban environment. It occupies a section of Detroit’s famous International Riverfront, covering 31 beautiful acres in all. While you're here, be sure to check out the on-site lighthouse, which is actually a replica of the beautiful Tawas Point Lighthouse.
2. Sterling State Park
William C. Sterling State Park, 2800 State Park Rd, Monroe, MI 48162, USA
With one mile of stunning lakeshore, Sterling State Park is Michigan's sole state park along the shores of Lake Erie. Visitors can dip their toes in the water, camp near the beach, or take a calming walk through the surrounding natural area.
In fact, there are approximately seven miles of trail space here, so you'll want to bring along your hiking boots.
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3. Maybury State Park
Maybury State Park, 49601 Eight Mile Rd, Northville, MI 48167, USA
Make the 40-minute drive from Detroit to Northville and check out this delightful park, which offers opportunities for all sorts of outdoor activities. Whether you’re taking a leisurely hike, enjoying a cross-country skiing adventure, or even perusing the on-site educational farm, you won’t be disappointed.
Guests of all ages are enamored with Maybury State Park -- and it's easy to see why.
4. Highland State Recreation Area
Highland State Recreation Area Group Camping Area, White Lake, MI 48383, USA
This delightful recreation area, which boasts a whopping 5,900 acres of land, is an unforgettable and scenic place to head when you’re looking for a pet-friendly spot. As long as you keep your pup on a leash, you can both enjoy the hilly wilderness of this White Lake locale. What better way to spend an afternoon with loved ones in tow?
This unique park is well worth a drive out of the city. Ride your bike or walk along the shores of the Saint Clair River, where you might just catch a view of a freighter making its way through. If you're hoping for an extended adventure, you'll be thrilled to learn that Algonac State Park houses two campgrounds for public use.
6. Seven Lakes State Park
Seven Lakes State Park, 14390 Fish Lake Rd, Holly, MI 48442, USA
Make the hourlong drive from Downtown Detroit to Holly for a memorable visit to Seven Lakes, where you’ll find 230 acres of land that offer opportunities for fishing, camping, hiking, and practically every other outdoor activity you can imagine. It’s one of the calmest and most scenic state parks in the area, so you might just want to stay all day.
7. Dodge #4 State Park
Dodge #4 State Park, Parkway Street, Waterford Township, MI, USA
No matter what the season, you’ll find an exciting activity to participate in at this park in Waterford Township. With plenty of space (139 acres, to be exact) of waterfront land that offers boating, cross-country skiing, and good old-fashioned nature hikes, there's something for everyone.
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8. Island Lake State Recreation Area
Island Lake Recreation Area, 6301 Kensington Rd, Brighton, MI 48116, USA
Featuring 4,000 acres of beautiful land, this recreation area will completely take your breath away. Walk among lovely meadows and sprawling forested sections as you breathe in the fresh air of Island Lake. You might just want to bring along your camera to capture memories of your time at this pretty Metro Detroit locale.
This camping area is often praised for its clean beachfront and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to escape with a few friends when you need a break from the hustle and bustle of Detroit life. If that weren't enough, the park features trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
While there are plenty of great things to do outdoors in Detroit and the surrounding areas, we think there’s something special about these nine marvelous and nature-rich destinations. As you plan for up coming adventures, be sure to keep these state parks to visit in Detroit and Metro Detroit on your bucket list.
Are there any other great natural spaces or hiking trails in Detroit that we should consider featuring in a future piece? Share your nominations with us here.
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More to Explore
State Parks To Visit In Detroit
Sophie Boudreau|January 27, 2022
Are there any other must-visit parks in Detroit or Metro Detroit?
Luckily for those of us who call the Detroit area home, natural beauty abounds throughout our region. If you’re hoping to remain close to home during your next outdoor adventure, you’ll be happy to learn that there are a handful of “secret” parks in Detroit that are so worth exploring. From riverfront scenery at Maheras Gentry Park to sledding at Balduck Park, the options are truly endless.
What are some of the best family-friendly activities in Detroit?
While many families enjoy spending time at natural destinations like state parks and recreation areas, we recognize that hiking and swimming aren’t ideal activities for everyone. Thankfully, Detroit is rich with all sorts of options for guests of all backgrounds and interests, including an assortment of museums, dining destinations, and everything in between. Learn more by reading our list of underrated attractions in Detroit.
Are there any historic parks near Detroit?
Metro Detroit and the Motor City itself are rich with history, as we’ve previously mentioned. From Motown music to the auto industry, our area has played an important role in many of America’s most iconic eras. If you’d like to combine your love of history with an appreciation for nature, we recommend exploring Sharon Mills County Park. Located approximately an hour from Detroit, this unique spot features an 1850s mill and the chance to peruse grounds that once served as a small Ford factory. Find out more by reading our feature piece.
