The idyllic town of Renowned as Michigan’s Little Bavaria, Frankenmuth is a quaint town rich in natural beauty, untouched greenery, and a variety of recreational activities.
While the town itself is worth exploring, it also offers easy access to a number of state parks for a quick getaway.
Here are the 8 best state parks located near Frankenmuth, MI, that you absolutely cannot miss!
Map of State Parks Near Frankenmuth, MI
Here is a map of the state parks in Michigan covered by this post:
List of State Parks Near Frankenmuth
This collection of parks is a great starting point for those looking to experience Michigan’s beauty. And the best part is that they are all within easy striking distance from Frankenmuth.
1. Saginaw River Headwaters Recreation Area
Distance from Frankenmuth: about 22 miles west of Frankenmuth (straight-line).
Location: Frost Road, Thomas Township, Michigan 48626
Saginaw River Headwaters Recreation Area covers 334 acres in Saginaw County, Michigan. Established 2023.
Highlights associated with Saginaw River Headwaters Recreation Area include lake recreation, river access, and wooded landscapes.
See our full Saginaw River Headwaters Recreation Area guide for fees, hours, and what to expect.
2. Bay City State Park
Distance from Frankenmuth: about 22 miles north of Frankenmuth (straight-line).
Location: Hartz Street, Bangor Township, Michigan 48706
Bay City State Park (previously Bay City State Recreation Area) is a 2,389-acre (967 ha) state park located on the shore of Saginaw Bay near Bay City in Bay County, Michigan, United States.
Visitor facilities listed for the park include a campground, rental cabins, hiking trails, and a designated swimming area.
See our full Bay City State Park guide for fees, hours, and what to expect.
3. Metamora-Hadley State Recreation Area
Distance from Frankenmuth: about 34 miles southeast of Frankenmuth (straight-line).
Location: Baldwin Road, Hadley Township, Michigan 48371
Metamora-Hadley State Recreation Area is a state-managed protected area in the U.S.
Highlights associated with Metamora-Hadley State Recreation Area include waterfall scenery, beach access, and coastal dunes.
Visitor facilities listed for the park include a campground, rental cabins, hiking trails, and a designated swimming area.
See our full Metamora-Hadley State Recreation Area guide for fees, hours, and what to expect.
4. Ortonville State Recreation Area
Distance from Frankenmuth: about 35 miles southeast of Frankenmuth (straight-line).
Location: 5779 Hadley Road, Ortonville, MI 48462
Ortonville State Recreation Area is a 5,400-acre (2,200 ha) recreation area, located in Oakland County and Lapeer County, Michigan.
Highlights associated with Ortonville State Recreation Area include beach access, lake recreation, and mountain scenery.
See our full Ortonville State Recreation Area guide for fees, hours, and what to expect.
5. Seven Lakes State Park
Distance from Frankenmuth: about 36 miles south of Frankenmuth (straight-line).
Location: Fenton, MI
Seven Lakes State Park is a public recreation area covering 1,434 acres (580 ha) one mile northwest of Holly in Holly Township, Oakland County, Michigan.
Highlights associated with Seven Lakes State Park include waterfall scenery, beach access, and coastal dunes.
See our full Seven Lakes State Park guide for fees, hours, and what to expect.
6. Holly State Recreation Area
Distance from Frankenmuth: about 37 miles south of Frankenmuth (straight-line).
Location: Dixie Highway, Groveland Corners, Michigan
Holly State Recreation Area is a state recreation area in Groveland Township, near Holly, Michigan.
Highlights associated with Holly State Recreation Area include beach access, lake recreation, and mountain scenery.
Visitor facilities listed for the park include a campground, rental cabins, hiking trails, and a designated swimming area.
See our full Holly State Recreation Area guide for fees, hours, and what to expect.
7. Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park
Distance from Frankenmuth: about 43 miles northeast of Frankenmuth (straight-line).
Location: Cass City, MI
Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park is a historic preservation area in the U.S.
Highlights associated with Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park include waterfall scenery, beach access, and coastal dunes.
Visitor facilities listed for the park include a campground and a marina.
See our full Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park guide for fees, hours, and what to expect.
8. Sleepy Hollow State Park
Distance from Frankenmuth: about 44 miles southwest of Frankenmuth (straight-line).
Location: Island Loop, Victor Township, Michigan
Sleepy Hollow State Park is a public recreation area covering 2,678 acres (1,084 ha) in the townships of Ovid and Victor in Clinton County, Michigan.
Highlights associated with Sleepy Hollow State Park include beach access, coastal dunes, and lake recreation.
See our full Sleepy Hollow State Park guide for fees, hours, and what to expect.
In Conclusion
These Michigan state parks allow you access to abundant natural resources and activities, as well as outstanding amenities and facilities.
If you plan on visiting multiple state parks, we recommend purchasing an annual Recreation passport, which grants you entry to all Michigan state parks and recreation locations. It’s the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate amidst nature!
