Everyone knows that the Great Lakes State is fantastically gorgeous, and many of our parks are household names throughout the Midwest. And while the city of Detroit itself might not immediately be associated with nature, there are plenty of delightful outdoor areas that are just a short drive from the Motor City. Here are nine underrated state parks to visit in Detroit and its suburbs that you’ll undoubtedly want to visit.
1. 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
This beautiful waterfront park is located directly on the Detroit River and proudly boasts the title of Michigan’s only urban state park. With 31 acres of land to explore, there’s truly something at Milliken for everyone. Marvel at pretty views of the city skyline, walk along the marina, or simply enjoy a picnic lunch with loved ones.
2. Maybury State Park
Maybury State Park, 49601 Eight Mile Rd, Northville, MI 48167, USA
Located approximately 45 minutes from Detroit by car, Maybury State Park is a real hidden gem in the region. Forest, meadowlands, and all sorts of flora and fauna add unmatched natural beauty to this 944-acre park in Northville Township. Hikers, bikers, and horseback riders alike will be completely enamored with Maybury.
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3. Dodge #4 State Park
Dodge #4 State Park, 4250 Parkway St, Waterford Twp, MI 48328, USA
Venture to Waterford Township and spend a few hours at Dodge #4 State Park, which packs all sorts of fun into its 139 acres of land. Conveniently tucked away along Cass Lake, the park offers water activities, plenty of open space, and a calm atmosphere to help you unwind after a long workweek.
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4. Kensington Metropark
Kensington Metropark, 4570 Huron River Pkwy, Milford, MI 48380, USA
While not quite a state park, Kensington Metropark certainly deserves a spot on your list of must-see parks in the Detroit area. This sprawling area is comprised of over 4,500 acres — including a massive, stunning lake just waiting to be explored. Hundreds of nature enthusiasts enjoy hiking, bicycling, and holding events at Kensington each year, and you’ll want to see for yourself.
Make the hour-long trek from Detroit to Holly for all kinds of outdoor excitement at Seven Lakes State Park, where you’ll discover a unique combination of forest and rolling hills. Grab your kayak and hit the water or simply lounge under a tree with a good book — it’s nearly impossible to have a bad time here.
6. Sanilac Petroglyphs State Park
Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park, 8251 Germania Rd, Cass City, MI 48726, USA
Visiting this amazing state park will cost you a two-hour drive from Detroit, but the experience that awaits is absolutely priceless. As its name suggests, this state park contains historic rock carvings thought to have been created by the region’s earliest Native Americans. Step back in time as you observe these fascinating designs, which never seem to lose their incredible charm.
7. Bald Mountain State Recreation Area
Bald Mountain State Recreation Area, 3361 S Lapeer Rd, Orion Twp, MI 48360, USA
Make the 45-minute drive from Detroit to check out this lovely park, which sits on approximately 4,600 acres of beautiful land. Fish for trout, hike along sloped land, or spend the night camping in one of Bald Mountain’s rustic yet charming cabins. Nature lovers will truly be in paradise.
8. Lakelands Trail State Park
Lakelands Trail State Park - Stockbridge, Stockbridge, MI 49285, USA
As its name suggests, Lakelands Trail State Park is centered around an amazing multi-use trail, which was converted from a now-defunct railroad line. You’ll find opportunities for everything from bicycling to horseback riding, and the scenery alone will make your trip well worth the jaunt.
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9. Sterling State Park
William C. Sterling State Park, 2800 State Park Rd, Monroe, MI 48162, USA
As the only state park located along the shores of Lake Erie, Sterling is truly special. In addition to its stunning beaches and shoreline, the park also offers plenty of scenic campsites, opportunities for fishing, and a relaxed ambiance that will make you want to stick around forever.
So, there you have it: some of the most underrated and wonderful state parks to visit in Detroit and its neighboring areas. Have you had the opportunity to explore any of these fun-filled and scenic locales while seeking outdoor activities in Detroit? We’re always eager to hear about your experiences, so drop us a line in the Facebook comments to share your state park memories. Or, if you’d like to provide your recommendations for the best parks in Detroit, fill out our nomination form here.
Ready to stretch your legs? Lace up those boots and head out to explore some of the best hiking trails in Detroit and nearby.
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More to Explore
State Parks To Visit In Detroit
Sophie Boudreau|February 03, 2022
Are there any other state parks in Detroit and its surrounding regions?
You’ve read about some of the most underrated state parks near Detroit, but you’ll be happy to learn that there are even more beautiful spaces to explore within convenient driving distance of the Motor City. Whether you’re heading northward for a camping adventure at Algonac State Park or getting happily lost among 4,000 acres at Island Lake State Recreation Area, you’ll never run out of natural fun in Metro Detroit. You can read more about some of our favorite state parks to visit in Detroit and its suburbs by clicking here.
Are there any smaller parks in Detroit that are worth visiting?
Large state parks have their charms, but there’s also something to be said for a more compact park within city limits. Luckily for Detroiters and visitors alike, there’s plenty of unique outdoor space to be discovered in the Motor City, from the beauty of Belle Isle to the history-rich delights of Campus Martius Park. If you’re searching for true hidden gems in Detroit, check out these nine “secret parks” that often fly under the radar.
What are some of the best outdoor activities in Detroit?
In addition to obvious outdoor options like hiking and picnicking, Metro Detroit is home to plenty of other grand and worthwhile natural adventures. From riding your bike along the Dequindre Cut to making memories in the refreshing fountain at Hart Plaza during warmer months, there’s plenty of fun to be had in the Motor City – and we’ve compiled a list of outdoor activities in Detroit that can be enjoyed free of cost. What’s not to love?
