Gorge Olson Recreational Center
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
The George Olson Recreational Center is a popular destination in Michigan, attracting visitors from all over the state.
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Summary
One of the main reasons to visit the center is the wide range of activities that it offers. These include hiking, fishing, swimming, kayaking, and more. The center is also home to a large campground, making it an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts to spend a few days.
One of the most popular points of interest at the center is the George Olson Dam, which was built in the early 1900s. This impressive structure is still in use today, providing energy to the local community. Visitors can learn more about the dam and its history through guided tours and educational exhibits.
Another interesting feature of the George Olson Recreational Center is its location along the Pere Marquette River, which is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers can try their luck at catching trout, salmon, and other species in the river's clear waters.
The best time to visit the George Olson Recreational Center depends on what activities you're interested in. Summer is a popular time for camping and water sports, while fall is an excellent time for fishing and hiking. Winter visitors can enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the surrounding woods.
Overall, the George Olson Recreational Center is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors in Michigan. With its diverse range of activities, interesting history, and beautiful natural surroundings, it's sure to be a memorable experience for all who visit.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
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Harvey Randall Wickes Recreation Complex
William H Haithco Recreation Area