Michigan is home to a diverse range of national and state parks, each offering unique outdoor experiences for visitors. One of the must-see parks in Michigan is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, known for its towering sand dunes that overlook Lake Michigan. Visitors can hike through forests, swim in crystal-clear waters, and even go dune sledding for a thrilling experience. Another popular park is Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, where colorful sandstone cliffs rise dramatically from Lake Superior, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and camping. Both parks hold rich histories, with Sleeping Bear Dunes once being home to Native American tribes and Pictured Rocks serving as a popular trade route for the Ojibwa people.

Michigan boasts over 100 state parks, offering a wide array of outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a must-visit, featuring the impressive Tahquamenon Falls, one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. For a taste of history, visit Fort Wilkins State Park on the Keweenaw Peninsula, where visitors can explore a restored 1844 military outpost and learn about frontier life in Michigan. With over 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline and countless acres of forests and wetlands, Michigan's parks provide endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation in the great outdoors.