Highland State Recreation Area
Overview: The Ford Family Legacy in Oakland County
Stretching across 5,900 acres of rolling, glacially sculpted terrain in northern Oakland County, the Highland State Recreation Area occupies a fascinating intersection of natural beauty, automotive dynasty history, and equestrian tradition. The park’s most remarkable feature is the 721-acre Haven Hill Natural Area—a designated National Natural Landmark that was once the private country estate of Edsel and Eleanor Ford, son and daughter-in-law of Henry Ford. This pristine old-growth and mature second-growth forest, deliberately preserved from logging by the Ford family, represents one of the finest remnants of pre-settlement Michigan landscape surviving anywhere in the densely developed southeastern corner of the state.
Beyond its historical significance, Highland is one of southeastern Michigan’s premier equestrian destinations, with 13 miles of dedicated horse trails supported by a rustic equestrian campground. Hikers, mountain bikers, anglers, and cross-country skiers also find excellent facilities across the park’s diverse landscape of over 10 inland lakes, dense hardwood forests, open meadows, and marshy wetlands.
Haven Hill: A National Natural Landmark
The Haven Hill Natural Area is Highland’s crown jewel and the reason the park holds significance far beyond its recreational offerings. In the 1920s and 1930s, Edsel Ford—president of the Ford Motor Company and one of the wealthiest men in America—established a country retreat on this rolling hilltop property. Unlike many wealthy landowners of the era who cleared their holdings for agriculture or development, the Fords deliberately preserved the mature forests on their land, creating a protected island of old-growth and aging second-growth woodland surrounded by the rapidly developing suburban landscape of Oakland County.
When the property was eventually transferred to the State of Michigan and incorporated into the recreation area, the Haven Hill forest had remained substantially undisturbed for decades. Today, the 721-acre Natural Area features towering oaks, beeches, and maples that are among the oldest and largest in southeastern Michigan. The forest floor supports a rich understory of wildflowers, ferns, and mosses that has had centuries to develop without the disruption of logging or clearing.
The Haven Hill area is accessible via dedicated hiking-only trails. Mountain biking, horseback riding, and motorized vehicles are prohibited within the Natural Area to protect the sensitive old-growth ecosystem. Interpretive signage along the trails explains the ecological and historical significance of the forest.
Equestrian Paradise
Highland is one of the most popular and best-equipped equestrian parks in the Metro Detroit region.
- 13 Miles of Horse Trails: The dedicated equestrian trail network winds through forests, fields, and marshes across the park’s western and central sections. The terrain varies from flat, wide pathways suitable for leisurely rides to more challenging hilly sections on the west side of Duck Lake Road.
- Equestrian Campground (25 Sites): Rustic campsites equipped with picket poles for tying horses, fire rings, and picnic tables. Two ADA-accessible sites with concrete pads are available. Vault toilets and potable water from a hand pump serve the area.
- Horse-Friendly: The campground is designed specifically for horse trailer access, with adequate space for rigs and easy trail connections from the sites.
The Lakes
Over 10 inland lakes are scattered across the recreation area, each offering slightly different recreational opportunities.
- Teeple Lake: The park’s primary swimming destination, featuring a designated beach area with seasonal lifeguard coverage, a bathhouse, and picnic facilities. The lake is small, warm, and shallow—ideal for families with young children.
- Haven Lake, Sloat Lake, Duncan Lake: Smaller lakes accessible by trail, offering quieter fishing and paddling opportunities away from the developed beach area.
Trail Network
Beyond the equestrian trails, Highland offers additional trail networks for different user groups.
- Hiking Trails: Multiple loops through forests and meadows, including the Haven Hill Nature Trail through the National Natural Landmark. Easy to moderate difficulty.
- Mountain Bike Trails: Designated singletrack through rolling terrain, offering moderate technical challenges suitable for intermediate riders.
- Cross-Country Ski Trails: During winter, trail sections are available for skiing when snow conditions permit (not groomed).
Bass Lake Modern Lodge
For visitors seeking a more comfortable overnight experience, the Bass Lake Modern Lodge is available for reservation through the Michigan DNR. This enclosed structure provides electricity, basic furnishings, and shelter from the elements while maintaining proximity to the park’s trails and natural areas. The lodge is popular for family reunions, small group retreats, and winter weekend getaways.
Seasonal Guide
Spring (April–May)
The Haven Hill forest floor erupts with wildflowers—trilliums, hepaticas, and wild geraniums create carpets of color beneath the still-bare canopy. Equestrian trails may be soft and muddy; check conditions before riding.
Summer (June–August)
Peak season. Teeple Lake swimming beach, equestrian campground, and all trails are fully operational. Weekend use is highest; weekday visits offer significantly more solitude.
Autumn (September–October)
The mature hardwoods of Haven Hill produce exceptional fall color—among the best in Oakland County. The combination of ancient oaks, towering maples, and beeches creates a rich, layered palette. Equestrian riding through autumn foliage is a signature Highland experience.
Winter (December–March)
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing through the snow-covered forests. The Bass Lake Lodge provides a heated gathering point for winter visitors. Ice fishing on the smaller lakes is popular.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Haven Hill Natural Area? Haven Hill is a 721-acre designated National Natural Landmark within the park—the former country estate of Edsel and Eleanor Ford. It contains some of the oldest and most mature forest in southeastern Michigan, deliberately preserved from logging by the Ford family.
Can I mountain bike in Haven Hill? No. Haven Hill Natural Area is restricted to hiking only. Mountain biking, horseback riding, and motorized vehicles are prohibited to protect the sensitive old-growth ecosystem. Mountain biking trails are available in other sections of the park.
Is there a swimming beach? Yes. Teeple Lake features a designated swimming beach with seasonal lifeguard coverage, a bathhouse, and picnic facilities.
Can I bring my horse? Yes. Highland offers 13 miles of dedicated equestrian trails and a 25-site rustic equestrian campground with horse tie-outs and trailer access.
How far is Highland from Detroit? Approximately 45 miles northwest of downtown Detroit, roughly a 50-minute to one-hour drive via I-96 and M-59.
