Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Les Cheneaux Islands State Park is located on the eastern shore of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula along the northern edge of Lake Huron. The park comprises approximately 7,700 acres of land and water, including forested mainland and a chain of 36 small islands within the Les Cheneaux archipelago. The park’s geography is defined by crystal-clear waters, sheltered bays, and dense hardwood forests dominated by maple, oak, and pine species. The islands and mainland provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, waterfowl, and numerous fish species. Historically, the area was home to the Anishinaabe peoples and later became a hub for early fur trading and boating activities. Today, Les Cheneaux Islands State Park is renowned for exceptional paddle sports, particularly kayaking and canoeing, allowing visitors to explore quiet bays, narrow channels, and sandy beaches. The park’s relatively undeveloped shoreline provides a peaceful retreat suitable for bird watching, fishing, and nature photography. Visitors can hike short nature trails through forested areas or relax at facilities near the water. Its proximity to nearby towns like Cedarville makes it easily accessible while remaining largely undisturbed. The park’s appeal lies in its combination of water access, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure opportunities, ideal for families, paddlers, anglers, and campers seeking a less commercialized Great Lakes experience.
