Oakland County has a diverse array of protected wildlands and hundreds of miles of trails, thanks first to the forces of nature, and then to the dedicated work of planners and civil engineers, and finally the support of trail advocates and the general public. And so today, on this Thanksgiving week, I’ll profile ten of my favorite wilder side sites for outdoor adventure and “nature embracing” in any season of the year, starting with Kensington Metropark.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) was tasked many years ago with developing an opportunity for off-road vehicle recreation in southeast Michigan, a venture that would also reduce illegal and dangerous riding on utility corridors and railway beds, as well as in parks and on private lands. Oakland County had depleted sand and gravel mines that were unlikely to ever be redeveloped for residential or commercial use because of noise from I-75 and challenging topography. It was a marriage that was meant to be and after years of labor pains, the result will soon emerge as Holly Oaks ORV Park, the first ORV Park in Oakland County. It will be the second state park in Michigan to be jointly managed by the state and a county parks agency. Continue reading
Fall is the perfect time to visit an Oakland County campground to take in the outdoors, enjoy crisp autumn air, and view the changing colors of our fall landscape. Pitch a tent, rent a yurt, or bring your RV and set out on an autumn adventure!
Take a look at our video for a sneak peek of your fall camping getaway!
Oakland County and its surrounding areas offer miles and miles of trails for your fitness and enjoyment! Now that the snow is gone for good (fingers crossed), it’s a splendid time to get outside and take in the much-needed sights and sounds of spring. Whether you want to take a quiet stroll, jog through a park, bike with friends, or saddle up on a horse, there’s a trail for you.
View a partial list below to find a trail in your area. If you love maps, visit our Trails Page for an interactive trail viewer map. The map will allow you to sort by parks and trails, take note of a trail’s surface area, and view a trail’s elevation by clicking on it.
It’s time to plan your next camping adventure in Oakland County! With two wonderful campgrounds run by Oakland County Parks and Recreation, you won’t have to go far. Addison Oaks in Leonard and Groveland Oaks in Holly offer individual, family, or group camping sites. Both parks offer cabins, yurts, modern, and group sites as well. Your camping adventure awaits – call 248-858-1400 and make your reservation today!
Check out our video to see all of the fun that’s in store!
