Forest picnic areas in Traverse City, Michigan

Railroad Point Natural Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 3860 N. #D Long Lake Road in Traverse City, Michigan, United States. This serene natural area offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning landscapes of Northern Michigan, including lush forests, scenic trails, and peaceful waterfront views. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll through nature or a place to enjoy a picnic with family and friends, Railroad Point Natural Area is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty of this hidden gem in Traverse City.

Timbers Recreation Area is a sprawling park located at 8195 Timbers Trail in Traverse City, Michigan. This beautiful outdoor space offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or get some exercise, Timbers Recreation Area has something for everyone. Come and explore this hidden gem in the heart of Michigan's stunning landscape.

Arbutus Lake State Forest Campground is a serene and picturesque retreat nestled along the shores of Arbutus Lake in Traverse City, Michigan. This campground offers a peaceful escape into nature, with spacious campsites surrounded by towering trees and stunning views of the crystal-clear lake. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, hiking, and boating. The campground also provides modern amenities including restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. Whether you're looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or a fun-filled family vacation, Arbutus Lake State Forest Campground is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Bass River Recreation Area is a beautiful park located along the Grand River in Ottawa County, Michigan. With 3.5 miles of river frontage, this park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and hunting. The park features over 8 miles of trails that traverse diverse habitats, making it perfect for hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, horseback riding, and mountain biking. To reach the park, simply head east on Lake Michigan Drive (M-45) from US-31 for 7 miles, then go north on 104th Avenue for 3.4 miles. Look for a gravel road on the east side of 104th Avenue.

Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at Gilbert Road in Arcadia, Michigan, United States. Spanning over 3800 acres across Benzie County and Manistee County, this preserve offers 20 trail miles for visitors to explore and enjoy. Managed by the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, Arcadia Dunes provides a wide range of recreational activities such as hiking, snowshoeing, bird watching, mountain biking, and hunting. The preserve is open from dawn until dusk, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the diverse landscapes of dunes, forests, and working farms.