20 Attractions to Explore Near Rifle River Recreation Area

This beloved destination offers an array of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including fishing, swimming, boating, and camping. With crystal-clear waters that sparkle on even the cloudiest days, Au Sable Lake boasts both rustic charm and modern amenities. Whether you're seeking a quiet weekend getaway or an action-packed adventure, this stunning destination is sure to leave a lasting impression. So why not pack your bags, gather your loved ones.

Peach Lake is a picturesque lake with crystal clear waters and surrounding lush greenery, the lake provides the perfect backdrop for a serene getaway. The area is surrounded by towering trees and dotted with colorful wildflowers, making it a prime spot for nature lovers and hikers. Fishermen can cast their lines for a chance to catch bluegill, bass, and more. And for those looking for some fun in the sun, the lake offers swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Ogemaw Hills Pathway offers visitors a breathtaking glimpse into the beauty of nature. Boasting over 15 miles of well-maintained trails, this pathway is a hiker's dream come true. For those looking to take in the scenery at a more leisurely pace, there are plenty of opportunities for biking and horseback riding as well. The rolling hills and dense forests of this incredible pathway make it the perfect destination for all types of outdoor enthusiasts.

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.

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.

Iargo Springs, is a hidden paradise surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. It has long been a favorite destination for nature-lovers who hope to catch sight of the abundant wildlife that the area has to offer, including deer, turkey and bear. The springs themselves are remarkable—a seemingly endless collection of crystal-clear waterways that lead down to small pools where weary travelers can relax and take in the picturesque scenery.

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.

Huron-Manistee National Forests, a region of natural beauty and wildlife. Covering almost one million acres, these federally making forests boast two major rivers - the AuSable and Manistee Rivers - as well as hundreds of lakes, rivers, and streams for fishing, swimming, and boating. Visitors to the national forest can participate in activities such as camping, hiking, biking, ATV touring and off-roading on over 1,300 miles of trails.

The Lumberman's Monument is a commemoration of the hundreds of loggers that populated the area in the late 1800s and early 1900s. It was erected by the local governing body in 1973 to honor their contribution to the region's development. The monument stands tall at sixty-two feet and features a bronze image of a traditional logger at an old-fashioned sawmill. The monument is made from cement, topped with a statue of a logger's rooster conk, and surrounded by six flags.

Cooke Dam Pond is a well-known body of water located in Iosco County, Michigan. It is part of the Cooke Dam Park, a popular destination for picnickers and those who enjoy fishing. This pristine lake acts as a haven for birds and other wildlife that call it home. Surrounded by lush forests and plenty of fresh air, Cooke Dam Pond is the perfect summer escape for anyone looking to explore the beauty of northeastern lower Michigan.

Lake Saint Helen is a stunning body of water located in Roscommon County, Michigan. With a surface area of nearly 2,400 acres, this lake offers plenty of space for boating, fishing, and other water activities. The water is clear and pristine, making it ideal for swimming and diving. Visitors can also enjoy camping and hiking in the surrounding area. One of the unique features of Lake Saint Helen is its island, which can be accessed by boat or kayak.

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.

Roscommon Zoo is a premier destination for those looking to experience some of the world’s most exotic wildlife. From its lush tropical rainforest habitat featuring leopards, ocelots, and black bears to its large wetlands exhibit that includes alligators, beavers and otters, there is something to excite even the most ardent animal lover. The zoo also features unique attractions such as a petting zoo and educational reptile house.

The Mason Tract in Crawford County, Michigan is one of the state's most unique corners. Spanning over 5,400 acres of land that includes diverse natural features such as wetlands, hardwood forests, lakes, and hilltops, it provides a home for many species of fish and wildlife. Surrounded by private properties and state-managed public land, this special area can provide visitors with an opportunity to experience diverse habitats and observe nature in all its glory.

Old Orchard Park, is a great destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Whether travelling with family or enjoying a solo adventure, this idyllic spot has something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy picnicking by the picturesque lake, hiking trails through woods and meadows with stunning views of nearby Ocqueoc Lake or even see local wildlife while bird watching. Anglers can make the most of this park’s abundance of fish.

Foote Dam Pond, is an excellent spot for outdoor activities. From fishing to kayaking to skiing and snowshoeing in the winter, the pond offers something for everyone. The water's depth and clarity make it ideal for all types of fishermen, offering up a variety of largemouth bass and bluegill. For those looking to explore on land, hiking trails weave around the shoreline featuring stunning views of the surrounding scenery.

Gateway Park is a beautifully designed and maintained park that offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a variety of recreational activities. The park has plenty of open space to spend a day enjoying a picnic or simply taking in the breathtaking views of nature. There are several walking trails which provide great ways to get around while exploring the area. Those interested in aquatic sports can take advantage of nearby waterways for fishing, swimming, kayaking and more.

The Tuttle Marsh Wildlife Area, is home to a wide variety of wildlife species. Spanning 907 acres, the area boasts multiple habitats that provide some of the best bird watching and fishing opportunities to be found in Michigan. For those looking to observe more than just birds, there are several trails winding through the wetlands, thick hardwood and pine forests which offer glimpses of mink, river otters, and deer.

Foote Dam is a source of recreational and eco-tourism delights. The scenic area offers visitors the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife and nature's beauty from its location surrounding Hubbard Lake. From hiking trails along the riverbank to on-the-water waterways for anglers, paddlers and other outdoors enthusiasts, Foote Dam provides something for every season. An educational center also helps educate visitors about the history, ecology and environmental importance of the area.

Tawas Bay is a natural paradise. Its serene beauty has been attracting tourists for quite some time now, especially during the summer months. It's an excellent spot to take part in numerous outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, sailing and bird watching. Surrounding the bay are several parks and marinas that you can explore filled with lush greenery and sandy beaches. The area is home to a myriad of species of birds and aquatic animals like northern pike, walleye and trout.