20 Attractions to Explore Near Thunder Bay Island

Beaver Lake County Park is a beautiful park perfect for family outings. Located on the shores of Lake Huron, Beaver Lake offers plenty of space to explore, including 11 miles of trails through forests and marshlands filled with local wildlife. Visitors can play close to the lake on the beach or take to their boats and launch from its marina facilities. Golfers will find an excellent 18-hole championship course with breathtaking views.

The Huron-Manistee National Forest is a great vacation destination for nature lovers. This vast area is known for its sprawling forests, shimmering lakes, and wide open meadows filled with wildlife. It has two wilderness areas, the Manistee and Big Creek, both of which contain pristine old-growth forests. In addition to camping and losing yourself among its trails, the Huron-Manistee offers fantastic opportunities for fishing and hunting.

Opal Lake is a hidden gem tucked away in the northern part of the state. With crystal-clear water and pristine beaches, it's the perfect place for a relaxing getaway. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as fishing, swimming, and boating. One of the unique features of Opal Lake is the abundance of wildlife that calls the area home, including bald eagles, loons, and herons.

The Hubbard Lake Nature Preserve is truly a sight to behold. Opened in the summer of 2020, this sprawling 760 acres of natural beauty offers a rare glimpse into unspoiled wilderness. From sandy beaches and bluffs overlooking the lake, to woodlands and wetlands full of native wildlife, every visit is a unique wonder. Guests can explore miles of trails via foot or by bike and perhaps even spot bald eagles, trumpeter swans and beavers during their travels.

Reid Lake is a stunning destination for visitors looking for a combination of nature and amenities. The lake features crystal clear blue waters ideal for fishing, swimming, and just taking in the breathtaking views. Boating enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them busy between the boat launch, docks, and the 9 horsepower limit ensuring calmer waters. Onshore attractions include picnic areas, campgrounds, and trails that are perfect for exploring the local flora and fauna.

Alcona Dam Pond, is a great destination for anyone looking to connect with nature. This pond is full of life; visitors can spot a variety of birds and other wildlife while fishing, boating, or swimming in its clear blue waters. The area around the lake is comprised mostly of trees, making it a tranquil spot for relaxing walks and picnicking. What really makes this site unique are the 19th century mining ruins you can find near the shoreline.

Hubbard Lake, is well known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities. From swimming and boating to fishing, camping and hiking, visitors are sure to find something that catches their interest. The area offers a wide expanse of crystal-clear waters for visitors to enjoy - perfect for taking in the views of the surrounding countryside on a sunny day. Moreover, there are numerous public access points around the lake.

Aspen Park is nestled in the heart of Otsego County, a quaint town known for its natural beauty and friendly residents. This charming park boasts a variety of recreational activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including camping, fishing, and hiking. Its pristine lake and lush forests make it the perfect destination for families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a romantic escape. Whether you're exploring the park's trails, picnicking with loved ones, or simply lounging in the sun.

Alcona Park, is a beautiful destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Located along scenic Lake Huron, the park boasts miles of trails that offer opportunities for hiking and biking. The park also features camping areas including RV sites with electric and water hookups. Fishing is also permitted at the park's 200-acre lake which is stocked with a variety of fish species. Other amenities include picnicking locations, boat docks, playgrounds, restrooms and more.

Ocqueoc Falls is a beautiful natural attraction located in Presque Isle County, Michigan. This stunning waterfall cascades over limestone ledges and is surrounded by lush forests and serene hiking trails. Visitors of all ages can enjoy the peaceful scenery or take a refreshing dip in the crisp waters during the warmer months. Aside from its natural beauty, the waterfall also has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s when it was used to generate hydroelectric power.

This breathtaking waterfall stands at about 17 feet high, making for a majestic yet powerful water feature that anyone can appreciate. The falls are located in the rustic Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Park, an area of scenic camping sites and tranquil wilderness trails, while the waterfall itself is surrounded by lush greenery and gets even more impressive with an increase in rain. It's also home to a variety of wildlife.

Bavarian Falls Park, is a picturesque destination that offers visitors a glimpse of the stunning natural beauty of the area. The park is home to a number of waterfalls, hiking trails, and camping sites, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The waterfalls are easily accessible and offer beautiful views of cascading water and lush greenery. If you enjoy hiking, the park's trails offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Wildwood Lake, is a beautiful expanse of nature that attracts visitors from near and far. The lake offers lush landscapes of deciduous trees mixed with pines, creating a vibrant atmosphere and colors during each season. The calm waters are ideal for fishing, boating and swimming, while there's also a designated swim area with a beach. Additionally, Birding enthusiasts can take advantage of the abundance of different species around Wildwood Lake.

Otsego Lake State Park boasts a picturesque landscape and an abundance of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. With 62 campsites, beach access, fishing opportunities, hiking trails, and a playground, this park is the perfect destination for a family vacation or a weekend adventure with friends. Lined with towering trees and offering clear views of the sparkling lake, the park's serene atmosphere is a true escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

With crystal clear water that reflects the surrounding trees and mountains, this lake is a stunning sight to behold. Spanning over 1,900 acres and with a maximum depth of 29 feet, Otsego Lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and swimming. Anglers will be pleased to know that the lake is home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, pike, bass, and panfish. And for those who love to explore, there are several islands within the lake just waiting to be discovered.

Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox are legendary characters from folktales, who have become an iconic part of Alpena County, Michigan. The two were thought to have been a lumberjack and his trusty ox companion, with Paul Bunyan telling tales of their travels around the Great Lakes region. With both Paul and Babe now standing 40-feet tall in Alpena Town Square Park as a tribute to legends past, visitors can explore the local folklore of this celebrated duo.

Heart Lake is a gem that must be experienced. This lake boasts crystal clear water, perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot summer day. Fishing enthusiasts flock to this spot to catch smallmouth bass, bluegill, and perch. For those who prefer to stay on land, the surrounding wooded area offers perfect hiking trails with breathtaking views of the lake. Whether you're looking for a peaceful day of relaxation or an adventurous outdoor experience, Heart Lake is the perfect destination.

The Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center offers unique and exciting experiences for those interested in exploring the maritime history of the Great Lakes area. Here, visitors can learn about coastal shipwrecks and artifacts, as well as view art exhibits that highlight local culture and traditions. Several nautical museums feature ship models, glass cases filled with salvaged items from hundreds of ships, a navigation chart room and a 12-bell carillon tower.

Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary is both a unique geological feature and home to an array of marine life. Along the rugged coastline of Lake Huron, this sanctuary encompasses an area of 448 square miles where one can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking and more. Four permanently moored historical shipwrecks are present withinis sanctuary: Pride of Baltimore II , Monoho and two wooden barges.

The Alpena Lighthouse stands tall in the beautiful northern Michigan city. Built in 1876, during part of a regional movement to make the Great Lakes safer for boats and shipping, it is an iconic part of the local scenery. It's red-brick facade rises three stories skyward and its light still flashes out across the lake at night. Over the years it has served as a beacon for sailors returning home and a reminder to local residents that they are part of a larger history stretching back centuries.