Michigan is known for its interesting history, beautiful cities, sports culture, and — of course — its Great Lakes coastlines. Speaking of those coastlines, one Great Lakes locale visitors and residents alike flock to is Bay City State Park, located on the Saginaw Bay, off Lake Huron. 

Home to one of the Great Lakes’ largest freshwater coastlands, hiking trails, and swimming places, Bay City State Park is a recreational area that highlights Michigan’s unique environment and geography. Read on to learn more about Bay City State Park and why it should be on your list of places to visit in the Mitten State. 

What and Where Is Bay City State Park, Michigan?

Bay City State Park (formerly known as the Bay City State Recreational Area from 1994 to 2017, and before that…Bay City State Park, from 1923 to 1994) is located on the shores of Saginaw Bay in Bay County, Michigan. Once one of the most popular Michigan state parks, today Bay City State Park has more competition but plenty to offer travelers. 

As it is located on the coast of Lake Huron, one of the Great Lakes, many visit Bay City State Park to enjoy water activities. But Bay City State Park offers visitors plenty of opportunities within its nearly 2,400 acres to enjoy the great outdoors in a variety of different ways.

What Is There To Do at Bay City State Park?

There are many things to do at Bay City State Park, including getting in and on the water in warmer weather, hiking and biking on trails in all seasons, fishing, and cross-country skiing in winter. 

Swimming

Swimming is one of the main reasons people go to Bay City State Park, and it would be no surprise if that is your main reason for visiting. However, the local environment is conducive to the growth of algae blooms in warmer weather, which can prevent enjoyment of the water (due to potential health hazards). But, when that happens, there is still much to do.

Fishing

Even if you can’t get in the water in some of the more popular areas, there are still swimming spots to enjoy. Around these same areas, visitors to Bay City State Park can also fish. Anglers itching to catch pike, carp, bass, panfish, and more are encouraged to cast a line and see what they can hook!

Hiking and Biking Trails

Bay City State Park is a destination you can visit year-round, and when cooler weather prevails, it’s the perfect time to get out on the trails. Whether you prefer exploring them on two feet or two wheels, Bay City State Park’s miles of trails will keep you busy and healthy. The Tobico Marsh trail is a fun route to try, while the mile-long Lagoon Trail is suitable for most families and seniors. 

Winter Fun

When the weather gets colder and the snow falls, Bay City State Park, Michigan, is reborn as a winter wonderland. For anglers, ice fishing is available, with ice fishing festivals in late winter (usually mid-February) a draw for enthusiasts. 

Beyond that, in winter, more outdoorsy types can pack their gear and get outside to enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The best time to visit Bay City State Park for snow-related activities is in February, when snowfall accumulation is at its peak. 

Can You Go RV Camping at Bay City State Park?

Indeed, you can go RV camping at Bay City State Park, Michigan. There are 193 campsites, all of which can fit an RV, with 50-amp electric available. Many sites are near the beach area, but that may not be accessible to campers if an algae bloom comes ashore.

Pack your swimwear just in case if visiting in summer, but check reports before you leave for your trip. One big advantage of Bay City State Park camping in an RV is that you can do it year-round; visitors report the campground is much quieter in winter and quite beautiful when snow-covered. 

When Is the Best Time To Visit Bay City State Park?

The best time to visit Bay City State Park is early spring to mid-summer, so about mid-May to mid-July. This is the time when the weather is best, with humidity hovering around 78% and temperatures ranging from the mid-60s Fahrenheit to the high 70s.

Keep in mind, though, that warmer temperatures bring with them the chance for algae blooms, which can ruin your plans if you want to get in the water. To be safe, try to visit in early spring to make the most of the area’s weather. 

See Bay City State Park With Cruise America

In order to visit Bay City State Park on a road trip, you need a vehicle to get there. The best vehicle to travel to Bay City State Park is an RV rental. Luckily, Cruise America has you covered!

When you visit Bay City State Park or any other destination in Michigan in a Cruise America RV, you’re traveling in comfort and style. Visit Cruise America today to find the perfect RV to take you wherever you want to go!