If you haven’t heard of McLain State Park, you’re not alone. While some of Michigan’s state parks are overflowing with tourists each year, others manage to slip under the radar and remain underrated among the state’s natural destinations. When you’re hoping to explore an outdoor gem in the Great Lakes State that feels like something of a hidden gem, head to McLain State Park on Keweenaw Peninsula for an awesome day of fresh air exploration.
McLain State Park can be accessed via M-203 near the town of Hancock. It’s known around the state as one of the best parks on Lake Superior, and is an ideal UP day trip.
Google Maps
Tucked away along the shores of Lake Superior in the Keweenaw Peninsula, this state park is nothing short of breathtaking. Every Michigander should visit at least once.
Google Reviews/Asif Rabbani
If you find yourself on a U.P. getaway, add the park and its impressive 443 acres to your itinerary. No matter what your age or interests, you’ll find something to enjoy here.
Google Reviews/Richard Feyen
During warmer months, visitors can take part in everything from berry picking to beachfront relaxation at McLain. There’s a real sense of Michigan magic throughout. The state is particularly well-known for its fresh blueberries, which make fantastic pies or preserves.
Google Reviews/Gustavo Bordieu
The park’s four miles of hiking trails are also useful for cross-country skiing during the winter. No matter when you stop by, you’ll be able to make good use of this locale.
Google Reviews/Gordon Ehrensing
If that weren’t enough, weary travelers can rest at the on-site campground, which offers everything from modern campsites to mini cabins and more rustic options. The perfect way to rest after a day of berry picking and beach games.
Google Reviews/Patti Opsahl
In the evening, settle in along the shoreline to appreciate a magnificent sunset over Lake Superior. You might just feel like you’ve been swept away to a magical new world.
Google Reviews/Jared Greanya
When you’re on the hunt for an Upper Peninsula park with a beach in Michigan that the whole family will fall in love with, look no further than McLain State Park. You’ll quickly be enamored.
Google Reviews/Steven Tolle
To learn more about McLain State Park and its many fantastic recreational options, click here. Have you camped or hiked here in years past? Share your experiences below. If you’d like to recommend another underrated park in Michigan, fill out our nomination form here.
Google Maps
Google Reviews/Asif Rabbani
Google Reviews/Richard Feyen
Google Reviews/Gustavo Bordieu
Google Reviews/Gordon Ehrensing
Google Reviews/Patti Opsahl
Google Reviews/Jared Greanya
Google Reviews/Steven Tolle
For another outdoor adventure, check out this overlook hike in Michigan.
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Address: McLain State Park Rd, Hancock, MI 49930, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
State Parks To Visit In Michigan April 25, 2022 Raymond Goldfield How Many State Parks Are There In Michigan? There are a total of 101 state parks and recreation areas across Michigan, making up about five percent of the total area of the state. These range from small urban parks providing a natural haven near large cities like Detroit or Grand Rapids, to rural paradises only visited by the most adventurous hikers. Many of these state parks don’t have regular visitors by tourists, making them underrated gems for nature-lovers to discover during the summer. Can I Camp Right On The Water In Michigan? Michigan might not be on the ocean, but it actually has the longest fresh-water coastline in the world. Bordering the largest great lakes, Michigan has become one of the country’s top beach destinations without actually having a traditional beach. That means a thriving tourist sector, especially during the summer, and no shortage of places to camp with a view of the water. These beachfront vacation spots will make for a memorable campground. What Are The Most Well-Known Parks In Michigan? No matter what kind of park you’re looking for, you’ll likely find it in Michigan. Warren Dunes State Park is the most popular beach spot in the state, offering beautiful hiking trails with a view of the water. Maybury State Park has a working farm on-site and offers traditional woodland hikes. Tahquamenon Falls State Park has the state’s most stunning waterfalls. The odds are good you’ll find at least one park you want to add to your bucket list.
The OIYS Visitor Center
State Parks To Visit In Michigan
April 25, 2022
Raymond Goldfield
How Many State Parks Are There In Michigan? There are a total of 101 state parks and recreation areas across Michigan, making up about five percent of the total area of the state. These range from small urban parks providing a natural haven near large cities like Detroit or Grand Rapids, to rural paradises only visited by the most adventurous hikers. Many of these state parks don’t have regular visitors by tourists, making them underrated gems for nature-lovers to discover during the summer. Can I Camp Right On The Water In Michigan? Michigan might not be on the ocean, but it actually has the longest fresh-water coastline in the world. Bordering the largest great lakes, Michigan has become one of the country’s top beach destinations without actually having a traditional beach. That means a thriving tourist sector, especially during the summer, and no shortage of places to camp with a view of the water. These beachfront vacation spots will make for a memorable campground. What Are The Most Well-Known Parks In Michigan? No matter what kind of park you’re looking for, you’ll likely find it in Michigan. Warren Dunes State Park is the most popular beach spot in the state, offering beautiful hiking trails with a view of the water. Maybury State Park has a working farm on-site and offers traditional woodland hikes. Tahquamenon Falls State Park has the state’s most stunning waterfalls. The odds are good you’ll find at least one park you want to add to your bucket list.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
There are a total of 101 state parks and recreation areas across Michigan, making up about five percent of the total area of the state. These range from small urban parks providing a natural haven near large cities like Detroit or Grand Rapids, to rural paradises only visited by the most adventurous hikers. Many of these state parks don’t have regular visitors by tourists, making them underrated gems for nature-lovers to discover during the summer.
Can I Camp Right On The Water In Michigan?
Michigan might not be on the ocean, but it actually has the longest fresh-water coastline in the world. Bordering the largest great lakes, Michigan has become one of the country’s top beach destinations without actually having a traditional beach. That means a thriving tourist sector, especially during the summer, and no shortage of places to camp with a view of the water. These beachfront vacation spots will make for a memorable campground.
What Are The Most Well-Known Parks In Michigan?
No matter what kind of park you’re looking for, you’ll likely find it in Michigan. Warren Dunes State Park is the most popular beach spot in the state, offering beautiful hiking trails with a view of the water. Maybury State Park has a working farm on-site and offers traditional woodland hikes. Tahquamenon Falls State Park has the state’s most stunning waterfalls. The odds are good you’ll find at least one park you want to add to your bucket list.
