safari park michigan

This Magical Drive-Thru Safari In Michigan Is An Unforgettable Adventure With Rare Animals

By: Author Savannah Walker

Posted on June 26, 2024

Dreaming of up close and personal with rare and exotic animals without having to travel halfway across the world?

Well, buckle up, because Deer Tracks Junction in Michigan offers an unforgettable drive-thru safari experience that will have you grinning from ear to ear.

Keep reading to find out more about this magical adventure!

Located just outside Cedar Springs, Deer Tracks Junction is a family-friendly wildlife park that offers a unique blend of excitement, education, and fun.

As you drive through the sprawling landscape, you’ll encounter a variety of rare animals, some of which you might have only seen in documentaries.

It’s an experience that brings you closer to the wonders of the animal kingdom while remaining comfortably seated in your car.

As you cruise along, you’re immediately struck by the sheer variety of animals that call this place home.

From majestic elk that look like they stepped out of a nature documentary to quirky emus with their curious eyes, there’s something for everyone.

The drive-thru safari is designed to allow animals to roam freely, creating an authentic and immersive experience that feels like a real wildlife adventure.

The animals are the real stars here, and they know it.

They strut right up to your vehicle, often poking their heads in as if to say, “Hey, got any snacks?”

It’s like a VIP animal meet-and-greet, right in the comfort of your own car.

The elk, with their grand antlers, appear almost regal, while the emus provide endless entertainment with their quirky antics.

The experience is like a live-action nature show but with the added excitement of never knowing who might pop up next.

Maybe a deer will saunter by, or perhaps a buffalo will give you a once-over.

No need to squint or use binoculars because the animals come to you.

The whole thing feels a bit surreal, like you’ve entered an animated movie but without the CGI.

It’s both thrilling and heartwarming to see these creatures so up close and personal.

But Deer Tracks Junction isn’t just about passive observation.

Nope, here, you dive right into the fun!

Kids and adults alike can get up close and personal with the animals in ways that will make your heart sing.

Have you ever fed a bison?

You can do that here!

Ever wanted to pet a baby deer?

This is the spot!

The park offers a range of interactive experiences that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.

Children’s laughter fills the air as they hand-feed friendly goats and make furry friends in the petting zoo.

There’s something magical about watching a kid’s face light up when a gentle animal nuzzles their hand.

It’s priceless.

And don’t worry, adults—you’ll be having just as much fun.

The joy of connecting with these animals brings out the kid in everyone.

Related: This North American Polar Bear Habitat in Michigan is One of the Largest for an Icy Wild Encounter

Related: This Engineering Marvel in Michigan is the State’s Longest Wooden Suspension Bridge

Related: This Quirky Pirate-Themed Mini-Golf Course in Michigan is the Stuff of Childhood Dreams

Walking through the petting zoo, you feel a sense of peace and happiness that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Each animal encounter is a new adventure, a new story to tell.

And isn’t that what makes a great trip?

Fun, memories, and a whole lot of smiles.

For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, take a walk through the park’s beautifully landscaped grounds.

These grounds provide a serene backdrop for any leisurely activity.

Families can spread out a checkered blanket, unpack a scrumptious picnic, and simply enjoy each other’s company.

They’ll be darting off to the playground, where swings and slides call out to them like a siren song.

Parents, picture this: you’re lounging on a comfortable bench, perhaps with a cup of coffee in hand, watching your children play with boundless energy.

There’s laughter in the air, birds chirping their own little symphonies, and a gentle breeze that just makes everything feel right.

If the kids tire out—which, let’s face it, they rarely do—they can join you in exploring the meandering pathways that wind through the gardens.

This park is more than just a green space—it’s a sanctuary for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Whether you’re there to unwind with your family or to find a quiet corner for some reading, the park offers a little piece of paradise for everyone.

Feeling the heat after all that excitement?

Deer Tracks Junction has you covered with their ice cream shop.

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic vanilla or something more crazy, the shop offers something for everyone.

Either way, you’re sure to leave with a satisfied taste buds.

Deer Tracks Junction offers a magical and unforgettable adventure for visitors of all ages.

With its unique drive-thru safari, diverse animal encounters, and family-friendly activities, it’s a destination that promises fun, education, and memories that will last a lifetime.

So pack your car, gather your family, and head to Deer Tracks Junction for a day of excitement and wonder in the heart of Michigan’s beautiful countryside.

For those planning a visit, Deer Tracks Junction is open seasonally and depending on the weather, so be sure to check their website and Facebook page for current hours and admission prices.

The park is easily accessible by car and offers ample parking.

Use this map to find your way there.

Where: 7850 14 Mile Rd NE, Cedar Springs, MI 49319

Whether you’re a local or just passing through this magical drive-thru safari is a must-see attraction that promises an unforgettable day out.

Ready to embark on this wild adventure?

Plan your visit to Deer Tracks Junction today and prepare for a journey filled with wonder, laughter, and plenty of photo opportunities.

What rare animal are you most excited to see up close?

• Deer Tracks Junction

• Get Directions
• Buy Tickets
• Hours & Admission
• Guest services & Zoo Rules
• Keeper Talks
• Nearby Attractions & Restaurants
• Conservation
• Job Opportunities
• Boulder Ridge Volunteer Application
• VIP Animal Encounters- Coming Again Winter of 2024

Reptiles & Amphibians

• School Field Trips
• Summer Camps- Sold Out!
• Spring Break Week
• Weekends in April
• Grand Opening
• Reptile Day
• Mother’s Day
• Memorial Day
• Eat, Drink, & Conserve Wildlife June 7
• Father’s Day
• World Giraffe Day
• Princess & Superhero Day 2024
• Independence Day
• Baby Animal Days
• Reptile Days
• Eat, Drink, & Conserve Wildlife Again
• Prospector Days
• Jr. Detective Day
• World Rhino Day
• Park Before Dark 2024
• Our Sponsors

Now Open For The 2024 Season.

Open 7 days a week including holidays.

Come experience the wild at Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park! Located just 20 minutes East of Grand Rapids; your outdoor adventure awaits! Open Mon-Sat 10 am to 6 pm and then Sundays from 12 pm to 6 pm.

Come feed Giraffes, watch penguins splash in the water, marvel at Rhinos, enjoy the Pygmy Hippos, feed birds, and so much more!

And if all this adventuring makes you hungry, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with our concessions stand! From French Fries to Pickles on a Stick and everything in between; come enjoy it all!

Memberships are the best way to enjoy the zoo all Summer. Purchase yours at the zoo today and also enjoy 10% off concessions and souvenirs!

School field trips

Included is entry to the zoo including the elevated walk through safari, petting zoo, parakeet aviary and reptile house. Learn more.

View our park map here!

Party at the Park

Host your corporate event, company picnic, reception, wedding, and more here at the park in the evening.

By becoming a Park member, your family will receive unlimited admission to the Park for an entire season!

Our Animals

Boulder Ridge takes pride in the many rare and endangered animals that can be found in our park. In fact, some of our animals are difficult to find anywhere else in the United States.

Reptiles are lung-breathing, scale-covered animals that are ectothermic, or “cold-blooded“. Being “cold-blooded” means that reptiles cannot regulate their own body heat so their warmth has to come from the environment around them. All reptiles are vertebrates, which means they have...

Birds are members of the class Aves, which boasts over 10,000 species. Most birds are able to fly, but some, like ostriches, kiwis, penguins, and emus, have wings but cannot fly, and other birds are far better at swimming than...

There are over 5,500 different species of mammals. Mammals live on land, underground, in the air, or in fresh or salt water, but despite their diverse habitats, there are several things that mammals have in common: All mammals are vertebrates,...

Testimonials

Amanda goodburn.

We will definitely visit again. Great facility and we loved all the animals. We enjoyed being able to interact with the animals most.

Jessica Ganic

This place is wonderful. It's clean, the animals look healthy, and the safari ride is very fun (especially in the spring with all the baby animals!). There's a lot of variety and it's not too big so you're not overwhelmed. Very cool place.

Barb Lambert

I have been here many times! It is just an amazing Zoo. I highly recommend the zoo enthusiasts would have a great time. It is why I recommend & give it 5 stars!

Stacy Stehouwer

I would recommend this to anyone who has children! A wide variety of animals that are actually up close and you even get to go on a 'safari' ride that is included in the price. We are planning to go back.

David clark

We love to take the kids here. They allow you to be very close to the animals and have a petting zoo portion. Always clean and well kept. Staff are always courteous.

Jodi Wustman

Fun place for a short afternoon visit. Its a smaller place and that makes it great for younger children. Not cheap but a nice selection of animals. Hand feeding the giraffes!!!!!! Awesome!!!!!

Casey Knapp

Great little zoo! My first time there and it wasn't crowded. Can get nice and close to some of the animals. Feeding the animals was cool.

Andrew kooiker

My little one loves the rides on the bus around the park! Loves feeding the giraffes lol. I would recommend these guys for sure!

Sarah Harrison

This is my favorite place to go see animals. Our toddler got to Pet and Feed so many. Even a giraffe. No Hills so it's easy for a stroller as well.

Jodie Jirtle

Awesome little zoo! They are continually expanding and have more to see every time we visit! We go at least once every summer.

Elizabeth Kitchel

This place was so much fun! A nice change of experience from your traditional zoo. Our family had an amazing time and can't wait to return. The giraffe experience was worth every penny!

© 2023 Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park | All Rights Reserved

MEET THE WILD FROM YOUR CAR  

Both past and present  .

Located in Southern Indiana  4229 US-150 W, Paoli, IN 47454

View over 40 species of animals and our animated dinosaurs...all from the comfort of your own vehicle! You'll be able to see animals roam freely on our gorgeous property.   Drive your vehicle on our maintained gravel road and see the animals and dinosaurs through your windows!  

Visit anytime between 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM...

Open 7 days a week, no reservations necessary!

*Pricing above is subject to change.

*Feed IS NOT included, subject to an additional charge.

Adults - $23.00 Seniors (65+) - $20.00 Children (3-12) - $17.00 Ages 2 and under - FREE

Our Pricing .

Experience the self-guided Wildlife & Dinosaur Safari in your personal vehicle and see over 40 different species, as well as animated dinosaurs!  

DOGS ARE NOT ALLOWED ON THE SAFARI!

OPEN AIR VEHICLES are NOT allowed.  Vehicles must have tops and solid doors to participate in the safari.

Guided Wagon .

Experience the guided Wildlife Safari on wagon and see over 40 different species!  Go off the path and get up close and personal with the animals! Have the opportunity to drive back through in your personal vehicle to see the Dinosaur Safari opening 6/15/24 as well! Reservations highly suggested!

Adults - $37.00 Seniors (65+) - $34.00 Children (3-12) - $31.00 Ages 2 and under - FREE

Available seasonally from Mid-March-October 1 Hour Experience 9:30, 10:45, 12:00, 1:45, 3:00- peak season 10:00, 12:00, 2:00- non-peak season

+SAFARI FEED: INCLUDED

*Safari Feed IS included!

Also Included .

ROOS & CREW

Don't miss the variety of small animals at our Roos and Crew Barn.  View our animals in an intimate setting and learn all about their personalities. 

Complete with a variety of small animals, kangaroos, and reptiles it is sure to be a memorable experience!

Save Time .

Save Time by clicking the link below and completing your waiver prior to arrival!

Important Info .

ALL car occupants must purchase a full price ticket.  All safari park purchases are non-refundable!

Have any  Questions ?

4229 US-150 W, Paoli, IN 47454

[email protected]     //  812-936-4484

Proudly created by: fuhscreative.com

Deer Tracks Junction 2024: Exciting Drive-Thru Safari, Massive Playgrounds & Farm Animal Fun

One-of-a-Kind Experience at Deer Tracks Junction

Have you ever wanted to feed a camel from your car? You can if you head to Deer Tracks Junction in Cedar Springs, MI!

It’s a one-of-a-kind family-fun animal destination with incredible playground structures and interactive experiences. 

Whether you choose to visit one or both of their attractions (the giant petting zoo or Michigan’s only drive-thru safari) your family will be talking about this adventure for ages.

Certainly, Deer Tracks Junction is an animal lover’s paradise!

Here’s what you can expect when you visit – and why you should go:

in this article

Drive-thru safari.

Buckle up, we’re driving through Michigan’s only Drive-Thru Safari!

As you cruise along at 5 mph, roll down your window and watch out for those sloppy, tickly-tongues. 

The animals know you’re bringing them the good stuff and will flank your vehicle, waiting to be fed (no outside food allowed).

On any day, you might feed llamas, alpacas, bison, or Tibetan Yaks.

Interact with the big, cool creatures as they nibble from your bucket. And be ready for exciting surprises along the way.

TIP: Check the hours of operation before your visit and familiarize yourself with the safari rules – they are strict about human and animal safety.

Deer Tracks Junction Adventure Park

This part of the park is accessed on foot.

When you step into this part of Deer Tracks Junction, you enter a world of farm animals and family fun.

The park’s Wild West theme – with barns that resemble structures from 1800s Montana, pretend jail cells, and even a faux outhouse – set the stage for a hands-on animal experience.

Exciting Addition for 2024

In April 2024, Deer Tracks Junction welcomed their newest addition: Puzzles the giraffe.

Puzzles is a nine-year-old male giraffe, who cannot wait to meet you this season.

Feed the Gators

Alligators are a newer attraction at Deer Tracks Junction. And you can feed them!

Tip: Schedule your time to feed the gators – similar to signing up ahead of time for bottle feeding baby goats.

Height requirement of 4′ 7″.

Hang Out with Farm Animals

From pigs, goats, bunnies, and donkeys to camels and alpacas, there’s no shortage of cuddly creatures. 

You can even purchase food for the animals and enjoy a potentially slobbery, but definitely fun, feeding session. 

And, for an even more unique experience, check out the Deer Tracks Junction Animal Feeding page to book a bottle-feeding session or follow their Facebook page to learn about one-of-a-kind animal encounters.

Elevated Walkway Over the Bears

And, of course, don’t forget to explore the elevated walkway that extends over the bear enclosure!

You’ll get a fantastic view of the wildlife safari area and might even get the chance to feed the bears or drop a marshmallow down to them (with the help of a knowledgeable staff member).

Also, it’s a lot of fun to watch cars driving through the safari from the elevated walkway (and you don’t have to pay the safari admission fee).

Prairie Dog Town with Viewing Bubbles

It’s cuteness overload at Prairie Dog Town. 

Have your kids crawl through the tunnel and pop up into the Prairie Dog Exhibit.

They’ll get an up-close view of these adorable creatures through the viewing windows and you’ll be saying “awww” all the way home.

Epic Play Areas

Deer Tracks Junction isn’t just about the animals. Prepare for non-stop excitement in the giant play areas. 

Imagine tunnels, forts, and mind-blowing slides that will keep the kids entertained for hours. 

For some families, the playgrounds are the BEST part of a Deer Tracks Junction visit.

Look for these fun things to do:

• underground tunnels & mazes that lead to different places
• fun entryways like down an outhouse hole
• huge climbing features and slides
• nice shaded benches for parents under the biggest play structure

This is a huge silo filled with kernels to play in and wade through. There’s plenty of room for lots of kids to play – and space around the entire thing for those watching.

Full list of things to do in the play area:

• Explore the FUN BARN with its climbing nets and tunnels
• Visit the miniature Playhouse
• Have a blast in the Sandy Gulch sandbox
• Race rubber duckies in the Duck Race tank
• Venture into the four-story Mine and train play area

Plop Plop Ice Cream Shop

After a day full of playing as well as meeting and feeding animals, cool off with some ice cream.

The Plop Plop Ice Cream Shop is on-site and ready to scoop.

Our favorites here are the fun and yummy animal-themed sundaes. They make their own creamy, delicious ice cream and use it to build their sundaes.

Hours, Accessibility & Admission Information

Use this Deer Tracks Junction info to help you plan your visit.

Essential details, including operating hours, accessibility features, and admission rates, are listed.

If you have questions that aren’t answered here, give them a call: 616-863-3337 or check the Deer Tracks Junction website.

Accessibility

The Adventure Park is wheelchair and stroller-friendly, with paved paths and benches available in most areas.

• Open 10 AM – 8 PM
• 7 days a week
• Weather Permitting
• Admission stops 1 hour before closing

* 2024 Pricing

• Adventure Park: $16.99 per person
• Safari Drive-Thru: $19.99 per person
• Combo for Both Parks: $24.99 per person
•  Children aged 2 and under: FREE

Deer Tracks Junction is conveniently located near Cedar Springs, just a short drive from Grand Rapids. 

Deer Tracks Junction Address:

7850 14 Mile Rd NE, Cedar Springs, MI

To get there from Grand Rapids, take US-131 North and exit at 17 Mile Road (Exit 104). Turn left onto 17 Mile Road and continue for about 6 miles until you reach Deer Tracks Junction.

Have You Visited Deer Tracks Junction?

If you’ve visited Deer Tracks Junction, we would love to hear about your favorite moments, the animals you loved, and your highlights from the drive-thru safari or adventure playground.

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6 thoughts on “Deer Tracks Junction 2024: Exciting Drive-Thru Safari, Massive Playgrounds & Farm Animal Fun”

This looks amazing! We will definitely be checking this out.

Casey AndAmber, it’s right in cedar springs!! We should do it!!

My grandkids had the time of their lives at DTJ! They are still talking about it. A great family experience.

This looks awesome! My kids would love it!

Andrea Bogart

My grandson loves going to Deer Tracks Junction! We usually take him there two times a year. Once during the summer and then at Christmas time. He especially loves feeding the deer!

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(734)454-1833

Nelson "The Animal Guy"

​​our fully interactive wildlife shows are designed for:, schools (classroom or assembly), book or science fairs, fund raising events, indoor / outdoor functions (summer festivals), small or large audiences, up close or stage, corporate events​, summer camps, t.v. and film, ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​, wildlife safari features a large variety of exotic animals from around the world for shows, lectures, and exhibits., licensed and insured we are extremely dedicated to providing the safest most exciting animal encounters for people of all ages.  designed to be fun and educational, our natural science programs,  are very hands-on and are great for small or large audiences. .

Hi, I'm Nelson "The Animal Guy". I'm a federally licensed  conservationist ,  master falconer , wildlife exhibitor , and animal trainer. 

For   over 25 years, my animal friends and i have appeared at countless events across the country providing  wildlife  encounters to people of all ages. , based in michigan, i created wildlife safari in the early '90’s with my mission being to develop exciting hands-on, natural science programs that perfectly combine education and entertainment., over the years i've worked really hard to promote the concept of safe, fun, and positive interactions with living creatures.  together with my team of wildlife assistants, we are happy to work with you in creating the perfect wildlife experience for your function., are you looking to have an awesome wildlife experience thats fun, entertaining, and educational, look no further, you've found wildlife safari, the very best at hands-on encounters with wildlife .

Just do it!

What an amazing show Nelson puts on! Entertaining for both kids and adults. There is a lot of emphasis on conservation and ethics. The animals seem to be well cared for, healthy and safe to get up close and personal with. If you’re on the fence about hiring Nelson’s wildlife safari, just do it!🐍🦅🦔

-Lara Louzon

Simply Amazing!

Wildlife Safari came to my daughter’s school and were absolutely amazing! Nelson and his staff were really great with children and put on a really great show! My daughter loved it and cannot stop talking about it! Thank you!!!

-Justine Richards Hayes

We will be closed on all Mondays effective 07/08/2024. If you Have any questions concerning any party packages or birthday party bookings please email [email protected] and leave a phone number and we will get in touch with you.

BOOK YOUR PARTY & SAVE BIG!

Book your next birthday party and daycare event with us for memorable experience that your child(ren) will never forget!

Family Fun Center

Why kids & their parent choose us, ticket games, lazer runner.

An indoor Family Fun Center with a restaurant guaranteed to change your mind about food at indoor play areas. Our Family Fun Center serves nothing but the best and highest quality from our pizza to our burgers (Angus Beef) to our wings to our famous cheese bread and to the freshest salad bar around. Don’t forget about our Dippin’ Dots for an after meal dessert or a summer dessert with the family.

A Family Fun Center where they can run around and have fun and just be themselves. Where their imagination can run wild in our Safari Themed Adventure! Where adults can come and relax, use the Internet (free wi-fi), enjoy a cup of coffee and have lunch, catch up on paper work or come and have a blast with your kids.

party packages

Best place to party.

• Birthday Party
• Post Season Party
• Holiday Party
• School Field Trips

what our customer say

Testimonials about safari playground.

Many thanks for making my daughter Ria’s birthday so special. You and Your staff truly gave us lifetime of memories to cherish. All our guests enjoyed the ambiance, food and your courteous staff. Once again ..,a big thank you !!!! Ani & Rakesh

A Big Thank you !!

Great job hosting Bella’s 3rd birthday party today. The food was great.

Charles Skees

Just came here for the first time with our almost 4 year old, very impressed! It was SO clean (to include equipment and bathrooms)! The owner, Al, is friendly and approachable. The yogurt station is really cool and the food is great! Definitely will replace chuck e cheese to come here, it’s 10,000 times cleaner!!!

Andrea Marie

Stay tuned with our specials, signup for newsletter, 700 n. pontiac trail, walled lk, mi 48390.

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The Safari-Themed Indoor Playground In Michigan That’s Insanely Fun

Sophie Boudreau

More by this Author

Whether you’re seven years old or 70, there’s nothing better than heading out for a day of fun and exploration. And the real win is when the whole family can enjoy something unique, interesting, and fun together. For many Michiganders, inclement weather can put a damper on physical activity – but that doesn’t have to be the case. When you and your kids are ready for an exciting excursion that won’t send you diving headfirst into a pile of snow, venture to this unique attraction: a safari playground in the heart of Michigan.

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For more information about this exciting spot in the Great Lakes State, click here . Have you enjoyed a family outing at Safari Playground? Share your favorite memories in the comment section below!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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‘One-of-a-kind’: Safari park welcomes rare baby albino alligator

KENANSVILLE, Fla. (Gray News) - A wildlife and safari park in Florida announced the hatching of a rare albino alligator.

Representatives with Wild Florida said their Croc Squad team kept the albino eggs in an incubator and a climate-controlled room under careful watch.

“With the hard work and dedication of our Croc Squad, we worked together to produce one perfect healthy albino alligator hatchling this season,” Andrew Ayala on the Croc Squad said.

According to the animal team, it’s almost impossible to have albino gators reach maturity in the wild and they are dedicated to providing the best environment possible for the animal to thrive.

The albino gator hatchling is expected to make its debut at Wild Florida’s Gator Park after a month of maturity.

For now, guests can see the parents, Snowflake and Blizzard, in their exhibit or the Albino Gator encounter.

“We are most proud of the parents who continue to beat the odds and be a one-of-a-kind experience for guests,” Ayala said.

According to Wild Florida, it is proud to be the only attraction in the world with a successful albino alligator breeding program.

Copyright 2024 Gray Local Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Michigan state park fall harvest festivals: Camping dates in 2024

It feels early to start talking about fall leaves and Halloween, but for Michigan campers, it's time to book campsites for Michigan state park and recreation area fall harvest festivals.

The popular events take place each September and October and offer activities like trick-or-treating, hay rides, pumpkin carving, costume contests and haunted trails. Some campers even go all out and decorate their campsite.

Since state campsites can be reserved six months in advance, campers wanting to lock up spots at their favorite harvest event, often start booking in March and April.

More: Ludington State Park to completely close for almost a year: What to know

Fall harvest festivals are typically open to registered campers only.

Here's a list of the Michigan state park fall harvest festivals in 2024 . Check back as more events are added.

Michigan state park fall harvest festivals 2024

• Van Riper State Park Harvest Fest Weekend : Sept. 13-15
• Fayette Historic State Park A Paranormal Event: Sept. 20-21
• Van Riper State Park Harvest Fest Weekend : Sept. 20-22
• Wells State Park Harvest Festival Spooktacular : Sept 21-22
• Young State Park Harvest Festival : Sept. 27-28
• Onaway State Park Harvest Festival : Sept. 27-29
• Proud Lake Recreation Area Harvest Festival : Sept. 27-29
• Sleeper State Park Harvest Festival : Sept. 27-29
• Van Buren State Park Pumpkinfest : Sept. 27-29
• Fayette Historic State Park Fayette Fall Fest : Oct. 4-5
• Aloha State Park Harvest Festival: Oct. 4-6
• Harrisville State Park Haunted Halloween Weekend: Oct. 4-6
• Lakeport State Park Harvest Festival : Oct. 4-6
• Proud Lake Recreation Area Harvest Festival : Oct. 4-6
• Sleeper State Park Harvest Festival : Oct. 4-6
• Traverse City State Park Harvest Festival: Oct. 4-6
• Hoffmaster State Park Children's Harvest Festival : Oct. 11-13
• Lakeport State Park Trick-or-Treating : Oct. 12

No-frills Biggie Munn Park in Lansing offers serene atmosphere, access to Sycamore Creek

A Walk in the Park is an ongoing series from State Journal photographer Nick King, who intends to explore Lansing area parks one hour at a time. If you have a suggestion of a park he should visit, email him at [email protected] . 

Biggie Munn Park is a smaller, quiet park positioned along the Sycamore Creek in south Lansing. 

The 6-acre park, located on Aurelius Road just north of Jolly Road, features a paved walking path, nature trails and access to the water. There’s plenty of trees and other plants making it a place to spot wildlife such as deer and various species of birds.

It’s a no-frills park with both open and wooded areas to explore. The paved half-mile pathway extends through the center of the park. Natural dirt trails that wind through woods can also be used for hiking. 

The Sycamore Creek bank can be accessed throughout a third of the park if you’re in to fishing or relaxing by the moving water. 

The park is named after legendary Michigan State football coach and MSU athletic director Clarence "Biggie" Munn. The park came into existence in the early 1970s when an underdeveloped area of land was used by the city to create the park. 

The park can be accessed from the Lansing River Trail or you can park a vehicle at McGuire Park across the street. You can also access the start of the Sycamore Trail nearby the park. There are no bathrooms at the park, but there is one at McGuire Park. Leashed dogs are welcome. 

Michigan state park, recreation area campground closures in 2024

Several Michigan state park and recreation area campgrounds will be closed for portions of the 2024 camping season.

Since it's prime camping season, here's a rundown of planned closures announced by the Michigan Department of Natural Resource , so you're not surprised when trying to book.

Algonac State Park

Algonac State Park in Algonac stopped accepting reservations Nov. 1 due to projects to convert some sites to full-hookup , eliminate the north bathroom and improve the sanitation station in the Riverfront Campground. The projects will be paired with road repaving. The reopening date is unknown.

Brighton Recreation Area Bishop Lake

Electrical and road upgrades at Brighton Recreation Area Bishop Lake in Brighton will force the modern campground to close Aug. 11 to mid-May 2025. The project was delayed from its original date. The Horseman's Equestrian campground will close June 1 through Oct. 15 for road repairs.

Brimley State Park

The campground at Brimley State Park in Brimley will close Sept. 3 and is expected to reopen May 19, 2025, to upgrade water lines and the storm water system. The day-use area will also close Sept. 3 and is expected to reopen June 15, 2025.

Cheboygan State Park

The Cheboygan State Park modern campground in Cheboygan, not including the rustic cabins or modern lodge, will close Oct. 15 into the 2025 season to upgrade the toilet and shower building. The closing was originally set for Sept. 4, but delayed. Reservations for camping between Sept. 4 and Oct. 14 will be available at 8 a.m. Aug. 15.

Clear Lake State Park

The modern campground at Clear Lake State Park in Atlanta, Michigan will close Oct. 15 through June 15, 2025, to update water distribution, toilet and shower buildings and the sanitation station.

The closing was originally set for Sept. 4, but delayed. Reservations for camping between Sept. 4 and Oct. 14 will be available at 8 a.m. Aug. 15.

Hartwick Pines State Park

The modern campground at Hartwick Pines State Park in Grayling will close Sept. 4 through the end of the 2024 camping season to upgrade electrical. Overnight lodging, shelters and the group-use campground will not be impacted.

Hoeft State Park

Hoeft State Park in Rogers City will close Oct. 15 through June 15, 2025, to update the water distribution, toilet and shower building, sanitation station, sewage system and contact station. The closing was delayed and camping between Sept. 4 and Oct. 14 will be available to reserve starting 8 a.m. Aug. 15.

Indian Lake State Park

Several lakefront sites at Indian Lake State Park in Manistique will be closed for the 2024 camping season due to a shoreline restoration project in the modern campground. Affected sites include, 64, 70, 71, 75, 92, 98, 99, 106, 108, 116 and 117.

Interlochen State Park

The modern campground at Interlochen State Park in Interlochen is closed due to a project to upgrade the park's water and sewer system. The rustic Green Lake campground will remain open, but the sanitation station will be unavailable.

Ludington State Park

Ludington State Park in Ludington will completely close Sept. 3 through July 1, 2025, to pave the park's main road and Hamlin Lake day-use area parking lot, expand the parking lot at Lake Michigan and warming shelters and enhance traffic and pedestrian flow at the park entrance.

The east loop of the Cedar campground at Ludington State Park in Ludington also closed Nov. 30 until April 19 for an enhancement project to update the campground's lift station.

McLain State Park

The campground at McLain State Park in Hancock will tentatively close Aug. 1 through the end of the 2024 camping season to upgrade the wastewater treatment system. All pre-existing camping and lodging reservations within this closure period will be honored.

Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area

The modern campground at Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area in Metamora is closed through April 2025. The closure is due to a project that will repave campground roads replace electrical water lines and spigots in the modern campground and make several improvements in the camp store.

Milakokia Lake State Forest

The Milakokia Lake State Forest campground in Gould City,will close Sept. 3 through May 5 to improve traffic flow, vault toilet replacement and boating access site expansion.

Otsego Lake State Park

Otsego Lake State Park in Gaylord will close some campsites to upgrade electrical and septic lines and convert the northern end of the campground to full-hookup sites. The project was delayed and camping reservations for Aug. 23 through Oct. 14 will be available starting 8 a.m. Aug. 15.

Pinckney Recreation Area

The Bruin Lake modern campground at Pinckney Recreation Area in Gregory will close Sept. 3 to upgrade the sanitation station, north toilet and shower building and park roads

Pontiac Lake Recreation Area

The modern campground at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area in Waterford Township will close Sept. 7 through April 2025 to update the sanitation station entrance.

Port Crescent State Park

The modern campground at Port Crescent State Park in Port Austin will close throughout the 2024 season for an enhancement project that will include new roads, water and sewer lines, electrical, a sanitation station and more.

Rifle River Recreation Area

The Grousehaven modern campground at Rifle River Recreation Area in Lupton will close Sept. 2 through spring 2025 for enhancements that include paving the day-use road and parking lot, updating the day-use building and upgrading electric, water and the lift station in the modern campground. The rustic campgrounds and cabins will remain open.

Seven Lakes State Park

The modern campground at Seven Lakes State Park in Holly is slated to close May 1 to Oct. 31 for road paving and an electrical improvement project.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

The Lower Falls modern campground Portage loop at Tahquamenon Falls State Park in Paradise will close Sept. 3 through mid-May for electrical upgrades.

The Lower Falls modern campground Hemlock loop will close Oct. 20 through mid-May for water distribution upgrdes.

The 2024 harvest festival has been canceled.

Tawas Point State Park

Tawas Point State Park's modern campground in East Tawas will close Sept. 3 to April 30, 2025, for electrical upgrades.

Waterloo Recreation Area

Enhancements at Sugarloaf and Portage Lake campgrounds at Waterloo Recreation Area in Chelsea have been postponed.

The Portage Lake campground will now close Aug. 18 to Jan. 1 The Sugarloaf Lake campground will close Sept. 9 to Oct. 15.

The 2024 harvest festival will not take place, but will return in 2025.

The work will resurface playgrounds, replace a fishing pier and update water systems.

Wells State Park

Sites 1-51 at Wells State Park in Stephenson will close beginning Sept. 3 for planned shoreline restoration work.

Yankee Springs Recreation Area

The Gun Lake campground at Yankee Springs Recreation Area in Middleville is closed for the 2024 season to replace the park's sewer lines, upgrade electrical and resolve campsite flooding issues. The majority of the day-use area, main park road and boating access site remain open.

Young State Park

The Spruce modern campground at Young State Park in Boyne City is closed for the 2024 season to fix drainage issues and replace both toilet and shower buildings.