Gete Mino Mshkiigan State Park is one of Michigan’s newest and most uniquely named natural areas. Pronounced geh-teh-mino-mush-key-gun, the name translates from Anishinaabemowin as “Ancient Good Wetlands.” This 147-acre undeveloped park offers a quiet, primitive escape along the shores of Mullett Lake, featuring 1,500 feet of pristine lakefront and a gateway to the North Central State Trail.
A Natural Oasis on the Inland Waterway
Unlike highly manicured recreation areas, Gete Mino Mshkiigan embraces its wild roots. The land is characterized by a mix of coniferous and deciduous forests, with roughly 35% of the property consisting of emergent wetlands. This rich ecosystem makes it an excellent, undisturbed habitat for local wildlife and migratory birds along Michigan’s famed Inland Waterway.
[park_feature_box]Key Facts & Information
Before planning your visit to this rustic and undeveloped park, keep these key details in mind:
| Location | Cheboygan County, Michigan |
| Size | 147 Acres |
| Established | 2013 |
| Primary Feature | Mullett Lake Shoreline & Wetlands |
| Water Access | Undeveloped Beach Area |
| Trail Access | North Central State Trail (Rail-Trail) |
Activities and Access
Hiking and Biking the Trail
Because the park remains completely undeveloped, there are no paved parking lots or formal facilities. However, the celebrated 75-mile North Central State Trail runs directly through the property. This flat, crushed-limestone rail-trail is perfect for cycling, walking, and running during the summer, and serves as a premier snowmobile corridor in the winter.
Mullett Lake Access
Visitors can hike down old, unmarked two-track roads to reach the water. The park boasts a quiet, undeveloped beach along Mullett Lake—the fifth-largest inland lake in Michigan. It’s an ideal spot for a secluded picnic, shoreline wading, or launching a carry-in kayak to explore the lake’s perimeter.
Important Visitor Guidelines
Access requires parking along the shoulder of M-27 (N. Straits Highway), as there is no dedicated lot. Visitors must practice “Leave No Trace” principles, as there are no trash cans, restrooms, or running water on site. The rugged nature of Gete Mino Mshkiigan is its greatest asset, providing a true wilderness buffer against the increasing development of the surrounding lakeshore.
Planning Your Visit
Whether you’re biking the North Central State Trail or seeking a quiet corner of Mullett Lake to view the sunset, Gete Mino Mshkiigan offers a glimpse into Michigan’s ancient, untouched landscapes.
Explore the North Central State Trail
Gete Mino Mshkiigan is a perfect rest stop along the 75-mile rail-trail. Pack water and supplies, as there are no on-site amenities.
Find Nearby DNR CampgroundsFrequently Asked Questions
What is a Michigan Recreation Passport?
The Recreation Passport ($17 for residents, $34 for non-residents) is required for vehicle entry to all Michigan state parks and recreation areas. It can be purchased when registering your vehicle or at park entrances.
What are the best state parks in Michigan's Upper Peninsula?
Top UP parks include Pictured Rocks (stunning cliffs), Tahquamenon Falls (second-largest waterfall east of Mississippi), Porcupine Mountains (wilderness hiking), and Copper Harbor area parks for remote beauty.
Can I camp on the beach in Michigan?
Several Michigan state parks offer beachfront or near-beach camping on the Great Lakes, including Ludington, Holland, and Sleeping Bear Dunes area campgrounds. Lakefront sites are extremely popular and sell out quickly.
When is the best time to visit Michigan state parks?
Summer (June through August) is peak season for beaches and camping. Fall brings spectacular foliage, especially along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Winter offers cross-country skiing and ice fishing at many parks.
Explore More Michigan State Parks
Gete Mino Mshkiigan State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Michigan. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Michigan guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Lime Island State Park (a short drive away) or Warren Dunes State Park (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Gete Mino Mshkiigan State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in Michigan state parks, campgrounds, harbors and state-designated trails, except designated swim beaches and other posted areas.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Pets must always be on a 6-foot leash and under the owner's immediate control.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited in buoyed swim areas but allowed along the shoreline outside them (on a 6-ft leash, even in the water); 50+ parks have pet-friendly shoreline or designated dog beaches.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Up to two pets (cats and dogs only) allowed at ~12 parks' designated pet-friendly cabins, yurts and lodges; $10 per night per pet (cabins) or $15 (lodges); otherwise pets barred from overnight lodging.
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No day-use pet fee; pet-friendly lodging costs $10/night per pet (cabins) or $15/night per pet (lodges).
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Leash laws do not apply to dogs used for hunting on land open to such use; pets may not be left unattended.
Are dogs allowed at Gete Mino Mshkiigan State Park?
Pets are welcome in Michigan state parks, campgrounds, harbors and state-designated trails, except designated swim beaches and other posted areas. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via michigan.gov. More: Michigan state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
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