Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

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About Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge

Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge is a unique gem of nature in Chippewa County, Michigan. Established in 1986 and home to various species of wildlife such as Canada geese and ruddy ducks, this refuge also provides recreational opportunities like fishing, canoeing, hiking, and swimming. It is the only place in Chippewa County where visitors can explore the diverse ecosystem surrounding Lake Huron’s entire inner bay--including Mud Lake, Sand Point Marsh, State Islands.

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Attractions Near Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge

DeTour Reef Lighthouse

DeTour Reef Lighthouse

15.96km from Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge

Built in the 1860s, DeTour Reef Lighthouse has been guiding ships and visitors along the Straits of Mackinac ever since. Located just off the northern tip of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, this square tower stands 48 feet tall and is surrounded by stunning views of Lake Huron. Although the lighthouse is no longer used as a navigational aid, it continues to draw tourists who come to admire its warmly lit interior and panoramic lake vistas.

Caribou Lake

Caribou Lake

19.07km from Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge

Caribou Lake is a pristine lake located in Chippewa County, Michigan. It is surrounded by lush forests and beautiful streams. The lake serves as the perfect spot for hikers to enjoy the tranquility and serenity of nature. The banks of the lake provide places for campers to set up their tents, as well as for anglers looking for an ideal spot to cast their lines. The calm waters are crystal-clear blue and provide plenty of opportunities to explore its depths by canoe or kayak.

Spectacle Reef Lighthouse

Spectacle Reef Lighthouse

42.62km from Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge

Spectacle Reef Lighthouse is an iconic landmark that stands tall over Lake Huron. Built in 1874, the lighthouse has been used since then to provide safe passage for mariners travelling the straits of Mackinac. The spectacular view of the hundreds of islands and sand dunes along the shoreline make it a popular tourist destination. Standing 41 feet tall with 88 steps inside, it's visible for 15 miles across Lake Huron - making it one of Michigan's best lighthouses.

Cedarville Bay

Cedarville Bay

45.94km from Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge

Cedarville Bay, part of the magnificent Lake Huron, is located in Mackinac County in northern Michigan. It offers beautiful views of the Great Lakes, including towering limestone bluffs, secluded beaches, rustic lighthouses and lush forests. Perfect for all types of recreational activity and exploration, visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing and boating all along this breathtaking coast. Spectacular sunsets over the crystal-clear waters are a regular sight here.

Kewadin Casinos

Kewadin Casinos

51.25km from Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge

Kewadin Casinos is a Native American owned and operated casino in Mackinac County. Located close to the Michigan-Canada border, Kewadin Casinos offers guests a wide range of gaming options and amenities. A variety of popular slots machines, table games like blackjack and roulette, video poker, live keno events plus bingo are all on offer. Guests can also take advantage of several different promotions throughout the year that provide extra chances for winning big.

Bois Blanc Island Lighthouse

Bois Blanc Island Lighthouse

57.69km from Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge

Bois Blanc Island Lighthouse, is an iconic spot for many visitors to the beautiful Great Lakes State. Standing sturdy for more than 150 years, this impressive red-roofed tower stands 39 feet tall and contains a spiral staircase that takes you up a mere 55 steps to get you to the top of the lighthouse where remarkable views of Lake Huron await. Constructed in 1854 by order of President Franklin Pierce, this landmark was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Discover More Attractions in Chippewa County, Home of Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge

Chippewa County

Chippewa County

18 attractions

Chippewa County, Michigan is an attractive, sparsely populated county located in the eastern Upper Peninsula near Lake Superior. It offers visitors and residents a variety of attractions, including beautiful landscapes with rivers and lakes, a world-renowned trout stream and four State Parks with plenty of recreational opportunities like hunting, fishing and camping. The area also provides an eclectic mix of small towns where visitors can explore historics sites, nature trails and antiques store

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For more information about Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge, visit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harbor_Island_National_Wildlife_Refuge