10 Best Michigan National Parks (2023)

Michigan is a state in the Great Lakes region of the United States. It is home to a diverse range of natural landscapes, including forests, lakes, rivers, and sand dunes. The state is also home to a number of national parks that offer visitors the opportunity to explore the beauty and majesty of Michigan’s natural wonders. In this article, we will introduce you to some Michigan national parks, alongside their addresses, contact details, and operating times.

List of Best Michigan National Parks to Visit In 2023

Below are some of the best Michigan National Parks you may consider visiting soon or in future:

1. Motor Cities National Heritage Area

The Motor Cities National Heritage Area is located in and around the city of Detroit. The heritage area preserves the history and heritage of the automobile industry that once thrived in the region. Visitors to Motor Cities National Heritage Area can explore historic sites, museums, and interpretive centers to learn about the rich history of this unique area.

• Address: 200 Renaissance Center #3140, Detroit, MI 48243, United States
• Contact details: (313) 259-3425
• Operating times: The heritage area is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season.

2. Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale National Park is located in Lake Superior, near the Canadian border. This is one of Michigan national parks with an extensive network of trails that allow visitors to explore the island’s rugged wilderness. Visitors can hike, fish, kayak, or simply enjoy the solitude and natural beauty of this remote and wild place.

• Address: Houghton, MI 49931, United States
• Contact details: (906) 482-0984
• Operating times: The Park is open from mid-April through October, with limited services available in the winter.

3. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is located along the southern shore of Lake Superior. This is one of Michigan national parks that’s known for its colorful sandstone cliffs, pristine beaches, and stunning waterfalls. Visitors can hike, kayak, or take a boat tour to explore the park’s many natural wonders.

• Address: 46 E Munising Ave, Munising, MI 49862, United States
• Contact details: (906) 387-3700
• Operating times: The park is open year-round, with limited facilities available in the winter months.

4. Keweenaw National Historical Park

Keweenaw National Historical Park is located in the upper peninsula of Michigan. It’s one of the Michigan national parks that preserve the history and heritage of the copper mining industry that once dominated the region. Visitors can explore historic sites, museums, and interpretive centers to learn about the rich history of this unique area.

• Address: 25970 Red Jacket Rd, Calumet, MI 49913, United States
• Contact details: (906) 483-3176
• Operating times: The park is open year-round, with some facilities closed during the winter months.

5. River Raisin National Battlefield Park

River Raisin National Battlefield Park is located in Monroe, Michigan. This is one of Michigan national parks preserves the site of a historic battle that took place during the War of 1812. Visitors can explore the battlefield, attend educational programs and events, and learn about the history of this important period in American history.

• Address: 1403 E Elm Ave, Monroe, MI 48162, United States
• Contact details: (734) 243-7136
• Operating times: The park is open year-round, with some facilities closed during the winter months.

6. North Country National Scenic Trail

The North Country National Scenic Trail is a hiking trail that spans seven states, including

Michigan. The trail passes through a diverse range of landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and rolling hills. This Michigan national park enables visitors to hike a portion of the trail or tackle the entire 4,600-mile route, which stretches from New York to North Dakota.

• Address: Multiple access points along the trail
• Contact details: (616) 430-8239
• Operating times: The trail is open year-round, with varying conditions depending on the season.

7. Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge

The Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge is located in southeastern Michigan. The refuge is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including migratory birds, fish, and amphibians. Visitors to this Michigan national park can hike, fish, or take a guided tour to explore the natural beauty of this unique area.

• Address: 5437 W Jefferson Ave, Trenton, MI 48183, United States
• Contact details: (734) 692-7608
• Operating times: The refuge is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season.

8. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. This is one of the Michigan national parks known for its towering sand dunes, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can hike, bike, swim, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning views.

• Address: 9922 Front St, Empire, MI 49630, United States
• Contact details: (231) 326-4700
• Operating times: The park is open year-round, with some facilities closed during the winter months.

9. Father Marquette National Memorial

The Father Marquette National Memorial is located in St. Ignace, Michigan. The memorial commemorates the life and legacy of Father Jacques Marquette, a French Jesuit missionary who explored the Great Lakes region in the 17th century. Visitors can explore the memorial, attend educational programs and events, and learn about the history of this important figure in American history. 

• Address: St Ignace, MI 49781, United States
• Contact details: (906) 643-8620
• Operating times: The memorial is open year-round, with some facilities closed during the winter months.

10. Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge

The Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge is located in Lake Michigan, near the Mackinac

Bridge. The refuge is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including migratory birds. At the Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge, you can explore the islands, hike, fish, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of this remote and wild place.

• Address: 2661 N Service Rd W, Saint Ignace, MI 49781, United States
• Contact details: (906) 643-6822
• Operating times: The refuge is open year-round, with limited services available in the winter months.

In conclusion, Michigan national parks offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the beauty and majesty of the state’s natural wonders. From towering sand dunes to rugged wilderness areas, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing in the great outdoors, Michigan national parks are the perfect destination.