Palms Book State Park
Palms Book State Park is home to Kitch-iti-kipi—Michigan’s largest freshwater spring! Ride a self-propelled glass-bottom raft over crystal-clear 45°F waters pumping 10,000 gallons per minute!
The Big Spring
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 💧 Flow | 10,000+ gallons/minute |
| 📏 Size | 200ft wide × 40ft deep |
| 🌡️ Temperature | 45°F year-round (never freezes!) |
| 🐟 Trout | Lake, brown, brook trout visible |
Glass-Bottom Raft
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| ⏰ Hours | 8am – dusk (spring–fall) |
| ♿ Accessible | ADA accessible path & raft |
| 🐕 Pets | Leashed dogs welcome! |
| 💵 Entry | MI Recreation Passport required |
FAQ
Can I swim or fish in the spring?
No—swimming and fishing are prohibited in Kitch-iti-kipi. Viewing only from the raft!
💧 Michigan’s Largest Spring
Visit MI DNR.
Location & Getting There
Palms Book State Park is located in Michigan. The park’s coordinates are 46.0041, -86.3816. Check the park’s official website or your state parks app for detailed driving directions and GPS navigation tips.
Quick Facts
- Location: Michigan
- Coordinates: 46.0041, -86.3816
- Activities: Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing
- Pets: Allowed on leash in most areas (check local rules)
Things to Do
Michigan’s state park system stretches across two peninsulas and four Great Lakes, offering extraordinary variety. Activities include swimming on freshwater beaches rivaling ocean coastlines, hiking sand dune bluffs, fishing for walleye and salmon, camping in pine forests, kayaking dramatic shorelines, mountain biking, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling, and exploring historic lighthouses.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June–August) is peak season for beaches and camping. Fall brings spectacular foliage. Winter transforms many parks into Nordic skiing and ice fishing destinations. A Recreation Passport ($17) is required for vehicle entry.
Visitor Tips
A Recreation Passport ($17 residents, $34 non-residents) is required. Camping through the Michigan DNR up to 6 months in advance. Lakefront campsites at popular parks sell out within hours of opening.
Explore More Michigan State Parks
Palms Book 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.
