20 Attractions to Explore Near Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge

Donegal Bay, is a hidden gem. Boasting just over three miles of sandy shoreline and crystal clear waters, it makes for a paradise escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Those who wish to venture out on the lake will find plenty to keep them busy including sailing, fishing, swimming and kayaking - with the option of guided tours or simply enjoying the peacefulness of nature all around.

Whiskey Island is a vibrant coastal community known for its abundance of natural beauty as well as recreational opportunities. Located near the northern tip of Lake Michigan, Whiskey island offers ample access to charming white sand beaches, picturesque sunsets, and tranquil harbor towns. Visitors can explore public trails along the waterfront or take part in various activities such as fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, or sightseeing on a charter boat tour.

Squaw Island, located off the shore of Charlevoix County in Michigan, is a beautiful natural wonder. Surrounded by freshwater and tranquil waters, it is an ideal spot for a peaceful getaway. The island boasts numerous amenities such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking trails to explore the area's flora and fauna. Whether you're wanting to take a leisurely boat ride around the island or venture out on adventure in a kayak or canoe, Squaw Island has something to offer everyone!

Beaver Head Light is located in Charlevoix County,and was first lit in 1884. It stands 95-feet tall, with a brick tower covered in brick lining and completed with a black lantern room made from cast iron. The lighthouse also features a fog signal room where the foghorn can still be heard for miles depending on weather conditions. Its purpose was to guide Great Lakes shipping vessels safely through treacherous waters near Deer Park Point.

Seul Choix Pointe Lighthouse is a towering structure that has been guiding ships along the eastern shores of Lake Michigan since its construction in 1892. Standing at an impressive 78 feet tall, this lighthouse is a testament to the enduring power and beauty of American engineering. From the top of the tower, visitors can take in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the shimmering waters of the lake and the verdant forests that stretch out to either side of the shoreline.

Little Sand Bay Nature Preserve is a delightful park situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, the preserve covers 29 acres of majestic views and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore the nature trails, beach areas, and observation points overlooking Little Sand Bay. A wide variety of wildlife call the area home including birds, turtles, foxes, deer and more. Kayakers can spend an afternoon paddling along the bay while anglers fish for trout and salmon in Michigan's most productive fishery.

Beaver Island Harbor Light, is one of only two surviving lights from the state's earliest range lights. It was first established in 1839 and marks the entrance to Lake Michigan for ships sailing from Peninula Point Harbor. The 45-foot tower and small attached lighthouse keeper’s house were built on a rock platform about 900 feet offshore. The light was automated in 1967 and continues to guide ships safely into the harbor at night.

This Lighthouse stands tall and proud, guiding ships into the harbor of Schoolcraft County. With its classic red brick exterior and distinctive green lantern room, the lighthouse is a symbol of maritime history and a testament to human engineering. Originally built in 1916, this beacon of light has been a vital part of the Great Lakes shipping industry for over a century. The lighthouse is now automated, but visitors can still admire it from outside and learn about its fascinating history.

Indian Lake State Park is a beautiful destination waiting to be explored. This peaceful park is nestled amongst 8,400 acres of beautiful forest and is centered around the sparkling waters of Indian Lake. There are a wide range of activities to enjoy, from hiking on the many surrounding trails to fishing or swimming in the refreshing lake. The stunning scenery and tranquility of this state park make it the perfect destination for anyone seeking a break from their busy day-to-day life.

Indian Lake, is a picturesque body of water that spans over 8,200 acres. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful sandy beaches, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. In addition to swimming and boating, visitors can enjoy fishing for a variety of species, including northern pike, Walleye, and bluegill. The area surrounding Indian Lake is also home to a diverse ecosystem, including forests, wetlands, and hills.

Ile Aux Galets Light is a historic lighthouse built in 1927, the lighthouse boasts a 65-foot rock tower with an upper gallery made of steel and whitewashed bricks. It is the only active light house along Lake Michigan's northern shore. The light keeper's residence is also located on-site and features Whitefish Point Shingle Style architecture. The structure was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981 and today stands as a beacon for lake-goers around the area.

Manistique Lake is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The lake measures 6,850 acres and has depths of up to 90 feet. Due to its size and picturesque views, the lake is well suited for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, canoeing, sailing, or just taking in the scenery. An array of wildlife can be spotted along the shoreline including bald eagles soaring above looking for a meal.

South Manistique Lake, is one of the most picturesque lakes in all of Michigan. The crystal clear blue hues and lush vegetation surrounding the lake make it a great place for fishing, swimming, and even boating. The lake is known for its abundance of bass, pike, walleye and panfish, so anglers can spend hours casting their luck for a big catch. On the shorelines visitors can find plenty of nice spots for sunning or taking a nap along the tranquil beach.

Kitch-iti-kipi is a beautiful, vivid natural spring in Michigan. It is otherwise known as The Big Spring and offers visitors stunning views that are truly breathtaking. Its magnificent turquoise waters spread across 45 feet of width and 40 feet of depth with thousands of gallons of crystal clear water flowing every minute. This remarkable spring is also believed to reach down as far as 180 feet to the bottom of the Palms Book State Park, which makes it the deepest spring in Michigan.

Palms Book State Park is a unique and beautiful destination located in Schoolcraft County. This hidden gem boasts a 200-foot natural spring, known as Kitch-iti-kipi, which creates a stunning emerald green pool that visitors can float on in a self-operated raft. Along with this incredible experience, the park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities to fish for trout and other species. The park also includes a nearby campground for those looking to fully immerse themselves in nature.

Grays Reef Light, located near the northernmost part of Lake Michigan, is an iconic beacon. Built in 1932, it stands 92 feet tall with a cylindrical tower measuring just over 16 feet in diameter. The light from the beacon can be seen from as far away as 8 nautical miles and exhibits a signature flashing pattern of red and white. It has been used over the years not only to guide sailors but to provide a sense of security and hope for those who call the Great Lakes home.

This can truly be called a beacon of beauty in the Great Lakes. Standing tall against the horizon at 80-feet and outlined with red brick, it's a structure that often takes your breath away. Constructed in 1910 to ensure safety of ships passing through Lake Michigan, White Shoal features both a light tower plus an adjoining keeper's house. The lighthouse lens, fueled by oil and electricity intermittently throughout history, guided hundreds of vessels safely along its journey each year

Seney National Wildlife Refuge, located in Schoolcraft County, Michigan, is a nature lover's paradise. The refuge boasts over 95,000 acres of pristine wilderness, swamps, bogs, and marshes, making it a perfect destination for birdwatchers, hikers, kayakers, and anglers. Visitors can take a leisurely drive through the refuge, spot a moose, a black bear, or a bald eagle, stroll along the boardwalk, or attend a guided tour.

Waugoshance Lighthouse is a 102-foot wooden tower built in 1851 and one of the first lighthouses on Lake Michigan. Located at the most dangerous location on the lake, Waugoshance stands as an iconic reminder of early efforts to ensure safe navigation between Lake Michigan ports. Although it sustained heavy damage from ice during numerous winters, Waugoshance continued to be staffed until 1924 when an automated light was established.

Garlyn Zoo Wildlife Park is an incredible destination for all ages. The family-friendly park allows visitors the chance to observe some of the most beautiful and diverse animals from around the world up close. Here, guests can take a guided tour through the winding trails in search of creatures such as elk, mountain lions, timber wolves, black bears, bald eagles and turkeys. Other activities include a petting zoo with farm animals that are sure to be a hit with visitors to the park.