W.J. Hayes State Park
Overview: One of Michigan’s Oldest Parks in the Irish Hills
Dedicated in 1920 as Cedar Hill State Park—making it one of the oldest parks in the Michigan system—W.J. Hayes State Park occupies 654 acres in the heart of the Irish Hills region of Lenawee County, a glacier-sculpted landscape of rolling moraines and kettle lakes in southeastern Michigan between Ann Arbor and the Indiana border. Renamed in 1930 after Senator Walter J. Hayes, whose family donated additional land to the park, Hayes delivers a quintessential southern Michigan lake recreation experience: swimming, boating, and fishing on the 796-acre Wamplers Lake, with the park completely surrounding the smaller, 100-acre Round Lake connected to Wamplers by a channel.
The Irish Hills region—named by early settlers who saw a resemblance to Ireland’s green, rolling countryside—is one of southern Michigan’s most popular seasonal recreation areas, and Hayes State Park serves as its public anchor. The Michigan International Speedway, Hidden Lake Gardens (a 755-acre botanical garden operated by Michigan State University), and the small-town charm of the surrounding communities add recreational depth beyond the park itself.
Two Lakes
Wamplers Lake (796 Acres)
The park’s primary water body, Wamplers Lake is a warm, productive lake supporting a diverse fishery and full recreational boating. The park’s swimming beach fronts Wamplers Lake, and the boat launch provides full access to the lake’s open water.
- Fishing: Bass (largemouth and smallmouth), bluegill, pike, and other warm-water species
- Boating: Full-size boats, pontoons, jet skis, kayaks, and canoes
- Swimming: Large designated swimming beach with sandy bottom
Round Lake (100 Acres)
Completely surrounded by the park, Round Lake is connected to Wamplers by a navigable channel. Its smaller size and park-encircled shoreline create a more sheltered, quieter boating and fishing experience compared to the open waters of Wamplers.
185 Modern Campsites
The campground offers 185 sites with electrical service, modern restrooms, showers, a playground, and the full amenities expected of a front-line Michigan state park campground. The campground’s proximity to the swimming beach and boat launch makes it especially popular with families, and summer weekends fill well in advance.
The Irish Hills
The surrounding Irish Hills landscape—a classic example of glacial moraine topography—provides the scenic backdrop to the park experience. Rolling green hills, small kettle lakes, and country roads winding through farm and forest country create a landscape that genuinely evokes its Irish namesake, especially in the luminous green of late spring.
- Michigan International Speedway: One of NASCAR’s premier tracks, located minutes from the park and hosting major race events throughout the season
- Hidden Lake Gardens: A 755-acre botanical garden operated by Michigan State University, featuring plant collections, scenic drives, and a conservatory
- Local Attractions: Antique shops, orchards, farm markets, and small-town restaurants scattered through the Irish Hills corridor
Accessible Recreation
Hayes State Park provides accessible features including a fishing pier and boat/kayak launch designed for visitors with mobility challenges—ensuring that the lake recreation experience is available to all.
Seasonal Guide
Spring (April–May)
Campground opens. Bass fishing improves. Irish Hills at peak green. Hidden Lake Gardens in bloom.
Summer (June–August)
Peak season. Swimming, boating, camping. NASCAR races at Michigan International Speedway. Reserve early.
Autumn (September–October)
Fall color on the Irish Hills moraines. Lake still warm through mid-September. Apple orchards and farm markets.
Winter (November–March)
Campground closed. Ice fishing on Wamplers and Round Lakes. Quiet winter walks through the park’s wooded areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this one of the original Michigan state parks? Yes. Dedicated in 1920 as Cedar Hill State Park, it is among the oldest in the Michigan system. Renamed in 1930 for Senator Walter J. Hayes.
What are the Irish Hills? A glacier-sculpted landscape of rolling moraines and kettle lakes in southeastern Michigan, named by settlers who saw a resemblance to Ireland.
How close is the Michigan International Speedway? Minutes from the park. NASCAR and other major racing events run throughout the season.
