Otsego Lake State Park
"Gaylord is the closest city and the main gateway for park visitors. Travelers come here for lodging, dining, and easy access to Otsego Lake and other northern Michigan recreation."
A lakeside state park in Gaylord known for swimming, boating, camping, and classic northern Michigan recreation.
Hartwick Pines State Park
"Gaylord visitors are drawn to Hartwick Pines for its old-growth forest and quieter atmosphere than the larger resort areas nearby. It makes an easy half-day or full-day trip."
A northern Michigan park known for its old-growth pine forest, logging history, and year-round outdoor recreation.
Burt Lake State Park
"Gaylord residents and visitors can reach the park for a weekend on the water. The park offers a change of pace from inland forests with beach access and boating on Burt Lake."
A lakeside state park on Burt Lake with swimming, camping, boating, and family-friendly recreation.
Petoskey State Park
"Gaylord families and outdoor enthusiasts visit for a lakefront escape and a change of scenery from inland forests and hills."
A Lake Michigan park famous for its beach, dunes, and Petoskey stones.
South Higgins Lake State Park
"Gaylord residents and tourists visit South Higgins Lake State Park for summer water recreation and scenic camping. It is a good side trip for those exploring northern Michigan."
A scenic state park on Higgins Lake with sandy beaches, camping, and four-season recreation.
Interlochen State Park
"Gaylord residents and visitors may come to Interlochen for swimming, fishing, and a scenic overnight stay near Traverse City. It is a popular stop for those touring northern Michigan."
A small but popular northern Michigan park with two lakes, sandy beaches, and classic family camping.
North Higgins Lake State Park
"Gaylord is close enough for a full-day outing or weekend camping trip. Visitors from this area come for the clear water, sandy beach, and easy access to northern Michigan outdoor recreation."
A popular northern Michigan park with a sandy beach, camping, and year-round outdoor recreation on Higgins Lake.
Onaway State Park
"Gaylord visitors often head east for a lakefront camping trip with easy beach access. Onaway State Park offers a small, uncrowded setting that complements the larger inland recreation areas near Gaylord."
A peaceful lakeside park on Black Lake with camping, swimming, and picnic areas.
Negwegon State Park
"Gaylord is far enough inland that Negwegon offers a different kind of getaway, centered on the lake and coastal forest. It is a popular choice for campers looking for solitude."
A secluded Lake Huron park with primitive camping, beaches, and excellent wildlife viewing.
Straits State Park
"Gaylord travelers often use the park as a northern destination for scenic overlooks and camping. It is a popular add-on to trips across the northern Lower Peninsula."
A bluff-top park with sweeping views of the Mackinac Bridge and Straits of Mackinac.
