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Petoskey State Park

2475 M-119 · Petoskey, MI

Why you should go…

This 305-acre state park along Little Traverse Bay is one of the most reliable spots in the region to find Petoskey stones, the fossilized coral that became Michigan's official state stone. Dune trails and a sandy swimming beach round out the park beyond the stone hunting.

  • #state park
  • #petoskey stones
  • #beach
  • #lake michigan

Good to know

General sport & outdoor guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Weather calls the shots

    Check the forecast the morning of and keep an indoor backup in your pocket for the day it turns.

  • Shoes, water, sun cover

    The three things that decide whether you last the whole outing or cut it short after an hour.

  • Parking and launches fill early

    On a nice weekend, lots and trailheads are often full by mid-morning.

  • Daylight shrinks in shoulder season

    Spring and fall visits need an earlier start than the same trip in July.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Petoskey State Park, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Charlevoix

    Free

    A storybook harbor town of mushroom-shaped cottages and a working drawbridge.

    16 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Sightseeing
    Iconic

    Grand Traverse Lighthouse

    Under $25

    An 1852 lighthouse at the tip of Leelanau Peninsula, now a maritime museum with a climbable tower.

    32 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Sightseeing
    Outdoor Adventure

    Gaylord

    Free

    A Northern Michigan alpine-themed town serving as a gateway to skiing, snowmobiling, and elk country.

    33 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Family Favorite

    Traverse City State Park

    Under $25

    A shaded, family-friendly campground and beach on West Grand Traverse Bay.

    53 mi awayMore like this

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Family Favorite

    Clinch Park

    Free

    A downtown Traverse City beach and marina where West Grand Traverse Bay meets Front Street.

    55 mi awayMore like this

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Iconic

    Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    Under $25

    Towering perched sand dunes climb straight up from the Lake Michigan shoreline.

    68 mi awayMore like this