My family and I always enjoy checking out new ways to explore and connect with nature. Venturing out into the beauty that a National Park has to offer allows families to not only play and learn but also develop a connection and appreciation for the world around them. We are very fortunate to have 5 beautiful National Parks that are waiting to be discovered within a few hours drive. In this guide you will find information on each park as well as how to plan your visit to a National Park.
Before you head off on your National Park adventure, there are a few things that Park Rangers recommend you consider and pack before you go.
- Become a Junior Ranger- Check into the Welcome Center at the park where you can pick up your activities list for your child to complete and earn a Junior Ranger patch and certificate.
- Remember the "Leave No Trace" Motto- Make sure whatever you bring into the park leaves the park.
- Pack a small hiking bag for each person to carry or one main bag that includes; lunch, plenty of water, bug spray, sun screen, extra clothes (to enjoy the water) and a hat.
| Isle Royale National Park |
Explore a rugged, isolated island far from our connected communities. Isle Royale offers adventures for backpackers, hikers, boaters, paddlers, and divers. Cross Lake Superior and make a commitment: Become a part of this island, and let it become a part of you. All visitors must make the journey across Lake Superior to reach Isle Royale. Upon arrival, there are a multitude of ways to explore the archipelago by land or water. Whether you embark upon a backpacking trip in the island's wilderness or explore its many coves and bays by boat, Isle Royale offers something for everyone.
Junior Ranger Program: Yes
| Keweenaw National Historical Park |
There is much to see and do on the Keweenaw Peninsula. In addition to exploring the history of copper mining, numerous recreational opportunities are available in the area. In the summer hiking, canoeing, kayaking fishing, camping and biking are popular activities. During the winter, the normally abundant snowfall make this a prime area for snowshoeing, cross-country and downhill skiing, ice fishing and snowmobiling.
Junior Ranger Program: Yes
| Pictured Rock National Lakeshore |
Ever feel like you’ve stood on top of the world? This is the place to get a taste. Hovering over 400 feet above the vibrant Lake Michigan baby blues, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a treasure that never fails to awe its visitors (and locals). But if you don’t believe us, believe Good Morning America, which named the National Lakeshore the Most Beautiful Place in America a few years back.
Junior Ranger Program: Yes
| River Raisin National Battlefield Park |
River Raisin NBP preserves, commemorates, and interprets the January 1813 battles of the War of 1812 and their aftermath. Battles that resulted in the greatest victory for Tecumseh’s Confederation and the British and the greatest defeat for the U.S. The aftermath led to U.S. Indian laws that forced the removal, relocation, and assimilation of native nations, an aftermath that continues today.
Junior Ranger Program: Yes
Adventure awaits with hiking, backcountry trails, kayaking, exploring unique culture and more within these beautiful National Parks!
