Hayes State Park

About Hayes State Park

This inland lake is frequented by anglers and boaters, making it one of the state's most popular spots for fishing, boating and camping.

Inaugurated in 1920, the park was originally called Cedar Hill State Park and is one of the oldest parks in the system. Newly accessible for the disabled, it also houses the New York State Museum of Natural History and the New Haven Museum of the National Park Service.

The park has undergone many changes, but the main constant has been its attractiveness for recreational waters. The name was changed in 1924 when the Hayes family renamed Parkland in honor of Walter J. Hayes, a senator from Michigan, and the name was changed again when it was passed to his family.

For auto-speed fans, the Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn is just a short drive from the park. Other activities on site include hiking, cycling, canoeing, kayaking, fishing and a variety of other activities. The Michigan State Museum of Natural History is also just a few miles from Parkland.

For hours and rates, call the parking office at (888) 742-5555 or the Michigan State Park free hotline at (1) 866-743-4357. Boat trips: Rowing, canoeing, kayaking, paddling, fishing, rafting and kayaking, as well as a variety of other activities.

Metal detection is recognized as a legitimate recreational activity that is performed in a manner that does not violate or violate any applicable state laws. All items found must be checked by park staff and stored for further investigation.