Bay City State Park
Michigan State Park · Bay City, Michigan
Bay City State Park sits on the western shore of Saginaw Bay, the large inlet of Lake Huron, just north-east of the city of Bay City. It combines a long sandy beach, a campground and day-use area with the adjoining Tobico Marsh, a coastal wetland that is among the best places in the region to watch migrating birds. A bird-watching tower and boardwalk give a view over the marsh; confirm what is currently open. The water is shallow and warm in summer, which suits small children, but late-summer algae advisories happen, so check before swimming. Sunrises over the bay can be spectacular. Spring and autumn are for birders, summer for beach days and camping, and midges, mosquitoes and biting flies can be fierce near the marsh. A Michigan Recreation Passport is needed for the vehicle. Allow half a day or a night or two, and confirm facilities, fees and the camping season with the Michigan DNR, since details change.
3582 State Park Drive, Bay City, Michigan, 48706, United States
Michigan state parks are generally open daily from early morning until about ten at night, but this park's exact gate hours, campground season, visitor centre hours and the opening of the marsh boardwalks and tower change by year, so confirm with the Michigan DNR before travelling. The beach and splash or play areas are summer features, and any lifeguard cover or water-play equipment is seasonal. The campground runs from spring through autumn, with fewer services in winter. Bird migration peaks in spring and autumn, when dawn and dusk are the best times for the marsh. Day visitors need a Recreation Passport on the vehicle. Winter brings ice on the bay and a quiet, windy shore.
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