General Info: Young State Park covers 563 acres of beautiful wilderness at the east end of Lake Charlevoix on the northwestern side of “the Mitten”–Michigan’s lower peninsula. The terrain varies from lakeshore to gently rolling hills and cedar swamp, making it a nice stop off the beaten path to explore northern Michigan’s natural splendor.
Activities: Lake Charlevoix beckons with plenty of activities to enjoy the summer sun on the water. It is 17,260 acres and has depths up to 122’. It also has access to Lake Michigan. A boat launch provides access for boats under 16’, and you can enjoy fishing, power-boating, water-skiing and sailing. The lake is stocked each year with rainbow, brown and lake trout. The smaller Mirror Lake is a pond stocked with sunfish and rock bass; it’s a great fishing site for children.
The park also features a swimming area on Lake Charlevoix with a beach house and concession stand nearby for your convenience. Picnic areas with grills/fire pits overlook the beach, and an adjacent playground lets visitors keep a watchful eye on their children at play. Two hiking trail loops meander around the park and allow opportunities for walking, jogging and wildlife watching. The Deer Flats Nature Trail is 3.4 miles and doubles as a cross-country ski trail in winter. The 1.5-mile White Birch Trail is strictly for foot travel only. Horseshoe pits, softball fields, and basketball courts round out the park’s outdoor activities.
Camping Info: Young State Park has three separate camping areas, all with modern facilities. There are a total of 240 RV campsites with 50 amp electrical hookups. A dump station is available. The sites are grass back-ins (20×40’) and are handicap accessible. Restrooms and showers are located at all three campgrounds. Firewood and a public phone are also onsite. Nightly rates range from $16-$29 depending on type of site and time of year.
If you’re from the Great Lakes State or have visited Young State Park in the past, please chime in with your stories and travel tips!