Oakwoods Metropark – Huron-Clinton Metroparks (2023)

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Biking

Stop by Oakwoods Metropark to enjoy a 3-mile Hike-Bike Trail that winds along the Huron River. You’ll find open fields, lush woodlands and plenty of wildlife along the way. The trail is relatively flat with a few moderate hills and continues into Willow Metropark at the southern end of the park at Willow Road.

For longer rides, continue south through the City of Flat Rock and all the way to Lake Erie Metropark or ride north all the way to Lower Huron Metropark. These trail segments are part of Michigan’s Iron Belle Trail.

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Canoeing & Kayaking

Take your canoe or kayak out for a journey among the backwaters of the Huron River. Our 1-mile Walk-In-The-Water canoe trail begins behind the Nature Center and takes paddlers among the islands and past scenic shorelines where you might spot ducks, muskrats, swans, mink and white-tailed deer.

(Video) Oakwoods Metropark Nature Center: Eastern Fox Snake

If you have a longer trip in mind, the Huron River National Water Trail is the place to be, with canoe camping available at the Walnut Grove Campground located in Lower Huron Metropark, permit required. The Huron River has been designated as the 18th trail of the National Water Trail System, joining a network of nation exemplary water trails from Puget Sound to the Hudson River.

Please note, the Flat Rock Dam portage located downstream of Oakwoods Metropark is temporarily closed at Flat Rock Metal. Alternate portage arrangements should be planned in advance.

Motor City Canoe And Kayak Rental

Want to paddle but don’t have your own canoe or kayak? Motor City Canoe & Kayak Rental is here to help, with rentals available daily. Start your journey at Lower Huron, Willow or Oakwoods Metropark and see where the river takes you. Rentals available daily from May through August, weather and river conditions permitting.

Click here to learn more or to make a reservation.

Voyageur Canoe

Paddle along the slow-moving waters of the Huron River in our 18 passenger Voyageur canoe, as an interpreter shares a bit of history. Glide along a 1-mile route past picturesque woodlands with a chance to spot a white-tailed deer foraging near the shoreline. The tour is conducted on a 34-foot replica birchbark canoe. For more information or to reserve a trip, contact (734) 782-3956.

Rates

  • Individual rate – $5 per person
  • Group Rate (hourly rate, minimum 12 people) – $75

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Canoeing & Kayaking

Take your canoe or kayak out for a journey among the backwaters of the Huron River. Our 1-mile Walk-In-The-Water canoe trail begins behind the Nature Center and takes paddlers among the islands and past scenic shorelines where you might spot ducks, muskrats, swans, mink and white-tailed deer.

If you have a longer trip in mind, the Huron River National Water Trail is the place to be, with canoe camping available at the Walnut Grove Campground located in Lower Huron Metropark, permit required. The Huron River has been designated as the 18th trail of the National Water Trail System, joining a network of nation exemplary water trails from Puget Sound to the Hudson River.

Please note, the Flat Rock Dam portage located downstream of Oakwoods Metropark is temporarily closed at Flat Rock Metal. Alternate portage arrangements should be planned in advance.

Motor City Canoe And Kayak Rental

Want to paddle but don’t have your own canoe or kayak? Motor City Canoe & Kayak Rental is here to help, with rentals available daily. Start your journey at Lower Huron, Willow or Oakwoods Metropark and see where the river takes you. Rentals available daily from May through August, weather and river conditions permitting.

(Video) Huron-Clinton Metroparks Waterparks on Live In The D

Click here to learn more or to make a reservation.

Voyageur Canoe

Paddle along the slow-moving waters of the Huron River in our 18 passenger Voyageur canoe, as an interpreter shares a bit of history. Glide along a 1-mile route past picturesque woodlands with a chance to spot a white-tailed deer foraging near the shoreline. The tour is conducted on a 34-foot replica birchbark canoe. For more information or to reserve a trip, contact (734) 782-3956.

Rates

  • Individual rate – $5 per person
  • Group Rate (hourly rate, minimum 12 people) – $75

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Cross-Country Skiing

Enjoy skiing on marked, classically groomed trails that wind their way through Oakwoods Metropark or nearby Willow Metropark (conditions permitting). Cross-country skiing is also allowed throughout nearby Lower Huron Metropark, with the exception of the Group Camp area. Trails at Lower Huron Metropark are not marked nor groomed.

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Fishing

Rustle up some bait and come out to Oakwoods Metropark for some great fishing. Fish from your kayak or along the shore of the Huron River while you enjoy the gentle current and numerous coves, sloughs and inlets – perfect habitats for bass, sunfish, steelhead and coho salmon.

Shoreline fishing is allowed in designated areas only.

A valid Michigan Fishing License or Sportsperson’s License is required for all anglers age 17 and up.

Click here to view the Eat Safe Fish Guides from MDHHS.

(Video) Huron Clinton Metro Parks - How Many Colors

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Hiking

Hike-Bike Trail

For longer hikes on paved trails, our 3-mile hike-bike trail here at Oakwoods Metropark also connects you to Willow and Lower Huron Metroparks with nearly 30 miles of connected trails. An 11-mile connecting trail to Lake Erie Metropark can further extend your hiking experience up to 49 total miles when you make it a round trip. All of these paved trail segments are part of Michigan’s Iron Belle Trail.

Nature Trails

Oakwoods is the flattest of the Metroparks, which makes its trails particularly appealing. All trails (except Split Log being hard surface) are a mix of gravel and hard packed, and mostly flat with the exception of two small hills on the back side of Long Bark Trail. The land features tall trees, wonderful woodland scenery, and the Huron River’s backwaters. Five nature trails guide the visitors through the land’s important natural features:

SPLIT LOG – 700 Feet
A hard surface, all weather trail ideal for people with special accessibility needs, seniors and people with baby strollers. This short, wooded trail gives you the sights and the sounds of a Cattail Marsh while winding you through the trees to pass our mightiest Burr Oak.

BUTTERFLY VIEWING AREA – .25 MILE
While at the park, stop at the Cedar Knoll Picnic Area to hike the nearby Butterfly Viewing trail where butterflies and other insects dominate. This flora enriched area has been a designated “Monarch Butterfly Waystation” since 2008.

BIG TREE – .75 MILE
A short woodland trail with a large variety of hardwood trees, and some interesting natural features along the way; an ancient post-glacial sand bar and a vernal pond that provides a unique home for many creatures in the spring and fall.

SKY-COME-DOWN – 1 MILE
Some woods, some fields and some in-between “edge” areas typify this trail. A 3-acre pond enhances its diversity and attractiveness of this trail to a variety of wildlife. This is the most diverse trail in terms of unique habitats and ecosystems.

LONG BARK – 2 MILES
After sampling the sights and sounds along the Huron River, this trail plunges deep into the woods where woodpeckers, squirrels, and other forest dwellers can be seen. Plants compete quietly for space and resources, and the trees give way to multiple wetlands.

Know before you go: Occasionally woodland trails may be blocked with debris such as fallen tree limbs. Nature trails are not cleared or salted in the winter and may be snow-covered, slippery or muddy. Pets, bicycles and running are not permitted on the nature trails.

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(Video) Let's Visit Oakwoods Metropark

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Picnicking

OakwoodsMetroparkprovides the perfect setting for your next picnic. Picnic with friends or family with views of the Huron River.

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Nature Center

Oakwoods Metropark Nature Center is the perfect place to learn more about the animals and wildlife of the area. An updated indoor pond makes the turtles easier to see.

The Nature Center hosts interactive educational programs throughout the year, along with special events. Nearby, the Nature Study Area offers 350-acres of natural areas, featuring an ancient sandbar, backwater trail for canoeists, five nature trails, a butterfly garden and a 3-acre pond.

Click here to learn more about the nature center.

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Horseback Riding

Bring your horse over toOakwoodsMetroparkto ride more than 5 miles ofequestriantrails. The staging area is located 1 mile into the park, just past the railroad tracks. Pass through mature hardwood trees and expansive meadows, observe wildlife and waterfowl along the way.

A release and Metroparks Bridle Tag are required in advance and are available at the OakwoodsMetroparkNature Center, Lower Huron Park Office or from any park police officer.

(Video) Huron Clinton Metro Parks on Live in The D

FAQs

What parks are included in the Metro park Pass? ›

Free Metro Parking Days 2022

Your Metro parks annual parking pass covers your vehicle parking fee at Oxbow and Blue Lake regional parks, Broughton Beach, Chinook Landing Marine Park and M.

How many Huron Clinton Metroparks are there? ›

Huron-Clinton Metroparks – 13 PARKS.

How much is Turtle Cove? ›

$11 per person

How much does it cost to get into Willow Metropark? ›

Park Hours: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. Escape your routine and get out into the scenery of Willow Metropark. You'll find 1,532 acres of mature woodlands and scenic views of the Huron River.
...
Rates.
Daily Wristband$3Purchased at the toll booths
Senior/Junior Bag Tag$40Seniors aged 62+ Juniors 20 and younger
Children under 6Free
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How much is a Michigan Metro park Pass? ›

How Much Do Passes Cost?
Resident Annual Pass PriceNon-Resident Annual Pass Price
Annual Vehicle Pass$40$45
Annual Boat Pass$35$40
Annual Vehicle & Boat Pass$75$80
Senior Annual Vehicle Pass$29$34
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Do you need a pass at state parks in Michigan? ›

A Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into Michigan state parks, recreation areas, state forest campgrounds, and most boating access sites and state trailheads.

Who owns the Metroparks in Michigan? ›

Managed by the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority, the Metroparks are made up of 13 beautiful parks along the Huron and Clinton rivers in Livingston, Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties.

How many Metroparks are there in Michigan? ›

Today's Metroparks is made up of 13 individual properties with offerings that range from protected natural habitats to preserved regional history to high quality recreational facilities that provide four seasons of fun – all 365 days a year – to the people of Southeast Michigan.

How much does it cost to get into Lake Erie Metropark? ›

Park Office Hours: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Located just a short drive from the city, three miles of captivating shoreline await you here at Lake Erie Metropark.
...
Rates (April through October)
Daily Dockage (24hrs) All Lengths$30
Pump Out Holding Tank$8
West Shore Trailer Storage$10 per week
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How much is a yearly pass to Kensington Metropark? ›

Starting Jan. 1, the 2022 Metroparks annual pass will again cost $40 for residents ($29 for Seniors 62+) of the five counties served – Livingston, Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne – or $45 for non-residents ($34 for Seniors 62+).

How big is New Boston Michigan? ›

There are 1,379 residents in New Boston, with a median age of 42.

What day does Turtle Cove open? ›

Turtle Cove is open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, and promises to bring hours of family fun and enjoyment. A vehicle entry permit is required to enter Lower Huron Metropark. Directions: Turtle Cove is located inside the Park off of I-94 and Haggerty Rd which is exit 192.

How do I get to Turtle cave? ›

To get to Turtle Cave, you go down Edward rd. Turn into the resort to the left just before you get to the dead end. The buildings are curved. (The sketchy trail at the end of Edward road is super dangerous and doesn't really go anywhere.

Where is Turtle Cove located? ›

Turtle Cove is located on the north coast of central Providenciales, and is an upscale residential region. Several shops and restaurants can be found at the enclave of Turtle Cove Marina. Luxury rental villas line much of the beachfront in the area, which is fronted by Smith's Reef.

How do I get a Michigan state park pass? ›

Michigan residents can purchase the Recreation Passport by checking “YES” when renewing a license plate through the Secretary of State. You can also purchase the Recreation Passport by mail, kiosk, online at www.expresssos.com or at branch offices.

Can I buy a Michigan state park pass online? ›

Self-registration envelopes and fee pipes are available at many state parks, boating access sites and state forest campgrounds. A resident Recreation Passport cannot be purchased online.

How much is it to get into Kensington? ›

For $10 a day and an annual pass available, Kensington is packed with plenty of fun for the whole family.

Is there a senior discount for Michigan state parks? ›

An annual parking pass can be purchased for $25 and removes the need to pay day-use fees. Seniors and disabled individuals can purchase this vehicle pass for only $13.75.

How much is a Michigan state park pass 2022? ›

Michigan residents can typically purchase a recreation passport for $12 when getting or renewing their license plate registrations through the secretary of state (SOS). 1 Michigan residents also may purchase recreation passports outside the vehicle registration process.

Is Maybury State Park free? ›

Admission: Free with the purchase of the Recreation Passport ($12 via the Secretary of State or $17 at a State Park) Non-Resident Annual Pass $33. Non-Resident Daily Pass $9.

How many state campgrounds are in Michigan? ›

140 state forest campgrounds.

How many acres is Kensington Metropark? ›

Kensington Metropark offers 4,481 acres of wooded, hilly terrain surrounding beautiful Kent Lake and is home to an abundance of wildlife and waterfowl. Come enjoy a multitude of recreation opportunities throughout the year, from biking and boating to cross-country skiing and ice fishing.

Is Stoney Creek Open? ›

10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Are dogs allowed at Stony Creek Metropark? ›

The off-leash dog area is located at Oak Grove picnic area in Stony Creek Metropark and is available for use during regular park hours. Dogs are required to be on a leash when entering and exiting the off-leash dog area and in other areas and trails within the park.

Are dogs allowed at Kensington Metropark? ›

Kensington Metropark Frequently Asked Questions

Dogs are allowed but they must be on a lease. Dogs are NOT allowed on the nature trails.

How close is Lake Erie to Cleveland Clinic? ›

The distance between Lake Erie and Cleveland is 39 miles.

How much does it cost to get into Lake St Clair Metropark? ›

Rates
Regular Weekdays$8
Regular (Weekends & Holidays)$10
Seniors (55+)$6 (Weekdays only)
Juniors (20 and under)$6 (Weekdays only)
Ball rental$2

What time does Lake Erie close? ›

Experience Lake Erie in all its glory. Go fishing, witness the great seasonal bird migrations, have a picnic, try stand up paddle board, or take a bike ride along the lake shore. 6:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Can you have alcohol at Kensington Metropark? ›

Only beer and wine may be consumed in picnic areas or areas designated by the Metroparks. Alcoholic beverages may be permitted in accordance with Rules & Regulations of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission and only in areas designated by the Metroparks.

How many Oakland County parks are there? ›

13 parks, some with beaches, water parks and golf courses.

How many people live in New Boston Michigan? ›

Race in New Boston (zip 48164)
PEOPLENew Boston, MichiganUnited States
Population9,056329,484,123
Female Population49.4%50.8%
Male Population50.6%49.2%
Median Age43.437.8
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What County is New Boston MI? ›

New Boston is an unincorporated community in Wayne County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The community is located within Huron Charter Township.

What district is New Boston MI? ›

Huron School District

What pass do I need for Oregon state Parks? ›

If you´re camping at a state park, you don´t need a day-use parking permit. Just display your current state park camping receipt on your dashboard. If you´re not camping and don´t have an annual permit, you need to buy a daily parking permit. Daily parking permits are $5 per day, per vehicle.

How do I get an Oregon state park pass? ›

One-year ($30) and two-year ($50) parking passes are available by phone at (800) 551-6949 with a Visa or MasterCard, from state park offices and from other vendors all over the state. Daily parking permits ($5) are available at every day-use park that charges a fee.

Does Oregon State Parks have a Senior Pass? ›

Passes will be valid for one year until the last day of the month issued. Walk-in: Most USFS offices in Oregon and Washington. Holder must be at least age 62. Honored at USFS, NPS, BLM, USFWS, BOR and USACE areas where entry and day-use fees are charged.

Where can I use my National Park Pass in Oregon? ›

The Interagency Annual Pass allows you into Oregon, Washington, and US sites and facilities operated by the following agencies:
  • National Park Service.
  • US Forest Service.
  • Bureau of Land Management.
  • Bureau of Reclamation.
  • US Fish & Wildlife Service.

Can I use my Discover Pass in Oregon? ›

What is the difference between the Northwest Forest Pass and the Discover Pass? The Northwest Forest Pass allows access to U.S. Forest Service sites in Washington and Oregon where a day use fee is required. The Discover Pass is exclusively for access to Washington State Parks only.

How much does it cost to camp in Oregon State Parks? ›

Overnight rates
Resident
MinMax
Full / “Standard Full” Sewer, electricity, water at site Bring your RV, trailer, or tent Accessible sites$26$38
Electric / “Standard” Electricity, water at site Bring your RV, trailer, or tent Accessible sites$24$35
Tent Water at site or nearby Accessible sites$17$24
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1 Jan 2022

Does America the Beautiful Pass work for Northwest Forest Pass? ›

The America the Beautiful Pass is valid at National Forest sites and includes all the benefits of the Northwest Forest Pass.

How much is a camping permit in Oregon? ›

Oregon State Parks

Reservations, which cost $8, are accepted one day to six months in advance.

Videos

1. Let's Visit Lower Huron Metropark
(Scottman895 Travel)
2. Great Egrets, Wading Wonders
(Huron-Clinton Metroparks)
3. Lake Erie Metropark: Trek the Nature Trails!
(Huron-Clinton Metroparks)
4. Deer Along The Trail
(Huron-Clinton Metroparks)
5. While Walking in the Woods | Huron-Clinton Metroparks, Michigan (June 2020)
(Everything Nature)
6. Visiting Oakwoods MetroPark
(Benny & Rosely’s World)
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