WILSON STATE PARK
Situated on 36 wooded acres with a sandy beach on Budd Lake, Wilson State Park is located on the north end of Budd Lake in Clare County. The park was originally the site of the Wilson Brothers Sawmill and Company Store, which thrived in the late 1800s. The land was deeded to the City of Harrison in 1901 and in 1920 was turned over to the State of Michigan to be used as a state park. The park was officially dedicated in 1927. The beach and residence building at the park entrance were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps from 1939 to 1941.
The Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. Details and information on how to obtain your Michigan Recreation Passport can be found by visiting the
MICHIGAN RECREATION PASSPORT web page.
Day-UseFishingyes
Hiking Trailyes
1. Wilson State Park offers a sandy beach for swimming on Budd Lake.
2. Lifeguards are not provided, so swim at your own risk.
3. Swimming is allowed from sunrise to sunset only.
4. There's a designated area specifically marked for swimmers in the lake.
5. The park provides changing rooms and showers near the beach area.
6. The water quality of Budd Lake is regularly tested during summer months by local health department officials.
7. Pets are prohibited within any bathing areas; they must be kept outside these zones.
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There is an on-site boat launch that provides easy access to Budd Lake, which allows both motorized and non-motorized vessels. The lake itself is popular with anglers and recreational boaters alike due to its abundant fish population including bass, pike, walleye among others. Canoeing and kayaking are also common activities in the area thanks to calm waters suitable even for beginners.
Budd Lake, a 175- acre lake, boasts great fishing. A large fish population of muskellunge, bass, panfish, perch and walleye inhabit the lake. Besides fishing, pleasure boating and water-skiing are also popular activities on Budd Lake. A modern concrete launch ramp is located outside the park on the south end of the lake and mooring is allowed along the lake's shoreline
Wilson State Park is located near Harrison, Mount Pleasant
1. Wilson State Park offers numerous picnic tables and grills for a perfect family outing.
2. Enjoy picnicking by the beach with stunning views of Budd Lake.
3. The park provides sheltered areas ideal for group gatherings or events, available on reservation basis.
4. Picnic packs can be easily carried along the multiple hiking trails within the park area.
5. Visitors may also enjoy fishing while having their picnic as there are several spots near water bodies in this state park.
In the heartland of Michigan, a variety of biking trails await enthusiasts. Be mindful; some paths can be challenging.
The park's terrain offers both flat and hilly routes for cyclists to explore. Safety gear is recommended.
Mountain bikers will find rugged tracks that require skill and endurance. Always wear helmets on these demanding courses.
For those seeking leisurely rides, there are paved pathways winding through scenic landscapes - perfect for family outings or solo trips.
Remember: sharing the trail with walkers may necessitate slowing down at times to ensure everyone's safety.
Night riding isn't advised due to limited visibility in wooded areas which could lead to accidents if not careful enough.
Winter cycling might prove difficult because snowfall often makes certain sections impassable without appropriate equipment like fat-tire bikes.
Lastly, always respect nature by sticking only within designated bike lanes while enjoying your ride amidst this beautiful setting!
Cross Country Ski:
There are no established trails, park roads and campground paths provide plenty of opportunity for winter recreation.
Metal Detecting Areas:
Metal detecting is recognized as a legitimate recreation activity when it is conducted in ways that do not damage the natural and cultural resources in Michigan State Parks nor violate applicable state statues. Any items found must be reviewed by park staff and may be retained for further investigation.
No hunting is allowed in Wilson State Park, but there are thousands of acres of state and federal land which are open to hunting only a few miles away. Grouse, woodcock, squirrel, rabbit, deer, and bear are all popular game animals in the surrounding hunting areas.
In the winter, ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing are the major winter recreation activities around the park. There is also downhill skiing at Snowsnake Mountain, winter hiking, and golfing at the annual Frost Bite Open Golf Tournament on Budd Lake.
The Clare County Fairgrounds are across from the park and host many activities in the summer months including the County Fair, Michigan Bow Hunters Rendezvous, Monster Truck Show and the Exhibitor's Exposition. Other local activities are miniature golf, arcade games, batting cages, go-carts, canoeing on the Muskegon River, golf, biking and nature observation.
Pettit Park1525 North Mc Ewan Street
Clare, MI
989-386-7541
From S. US 27 to Harrison Exit, right 3.5 miles to park; from N. US 27 to Harrison Exit, right 4 miles to park.