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Hillsdale County Parks adventures

Hillsdale County Parks Adventures

Hillsdale County Parks in southern Michigan offer a diverse range of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing across multiple natural settings.

Over 500
Acres Protected
Approximately 20
Miles of Trails
Estimated 50,000+
Annual Visitors
1960s (varies by park)
Year Established

About Hillsdale County Parks

 

Hillsdale County Parks encompass a collection of public parks and natural areas located in Hillsdale County, Michigan. The parks feature rolling terrain typical of southern Michigan’s glaciated landscape, including hardwood forests, wetlands, prairies, and several lakes and ponds. Many of the parks were developed to provide recreational access to residents and visitors, offering a mixture of serene natural areas and facilities for day-use activities. Key parks include Baw Beese Lake Park, Claud R. Erickson Park, and Herman C. Loun Park, each providing unique landscapes and amenities. Popular activities range from hiking and mountain biking along maintained trails to fishing in well-stocked lakes. The parks also offer areas for picnicking, playgrounds, sports fields, and seasonal events. Wildlife in the area includes white-tailed deer, wild turkey, various waterfowl, and smaller mammals, with birdwatchers frequenting the wetland areas. Hillsdale County Parks provide accessible outdoor experiences with well-marked trails and facilities suitable for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The parks hold local historical significance, reflecting the county’s conservation efforts dating back several decades. Overall, Hillsdale County Parks serve as important community recreational resources supporting outdoor activity and environmental appreciation in a rural Michigan setting.

Highlights

Highlight

Baw Beese Lake – Popular fishing and boating destination with sandy beaches

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Erickson Park Nature Trail – Accessible walking trail through hardwood forests and wetlands

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Historic Hillsdale County Fairgrounds – Home to seasonal community events and festivals

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Photography opportunities at Loun Park’s open meadows and diverse birdlife

Notable Natural Features

Baw Beese Lake

A 270-acre lake featuring public access for fishing, boating, and swimming, surrounded by parkland with picnic and beach facilities.

Claud R. Erickson Park

Known for its natural beauty, Erickson Park offers walking trails through forest and wetland habitats, ideal for wildlife viewing.

Herman C. Loun Park

Offers a mix of open meadows and wooded areas with sports fields, playgrounds, and a scenic pond for outdoor recreation.