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Michigan
25

Michigan State Parks

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USA Parks
Michigan
Northeast Region
P H Hoeft State Park
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P H Hoeft State Park © Bill St. Andrew
P H Hoeft State Park © Bill St. Andrew
P H Hoeft State Park © Bill St. Andrew
P H Hoeft State Park © Doug Holland
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P H HOEFT STATE PARK
P H HOEFT STATE PARK
Hoeft State Park is a heavily wooded 300-acre park with a mile of sandy, Lake Huron shoreline. The moderating effect of Lake Huron causes temperatures to be less extreme during both summer and winter and also causes up to two weeks delay in season changes compared to a few miles inland. This was one of the first 14 Michigan State Parks. The original property was donated by lumber baron, Paul H. Hoeft on January 2, 1922. A picnic shelter still in use was built in the day use area by the Civilian Conservation Corps in late 1930s. In 1960, the campground was expanded from 66 campsites to its present size.
Passes
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.
Swimming
1. P H Hoeft State Park offers a mile-long sandy beach on Lake Huron for swimming.
2. Lifeguards are not provided, so swim at your own risk.
3. The park's day-use area has picnic tables and grills near the beach for post-swim meals or snacks.
4. Changing rooms with showers are available to freshen up after swimming in the lake.
5. Pets aren't allowed on this designated bathing beach; they have their separate dog-friendly areas within the park.

Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There is access to Lake Huron, one of the Great Lakes, providing opportunities for sailing and motorized boating. Canoeing and kayaking are also popular activities in this area due to its calm waters. However, it's important to note that there isn't any boat rental facility within the park itself; guests need bring their own equipment or rent from nearby facilities.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in Lake Huron, known for its abundance of salmon and trout. The park's inland lake houses bass and pike.


Location
P H Hoeft State Park is
Nearby Parks

Picnicking
1. P H Hoeft State Park offers numerous picnic tables and grills for a perfect outdoor meal.
2. Picnic areas have stunning views of Lake Huron, enhancing your dining experience.
3. The park also provides pavilions that can be reserved for large gatherings or events.
4. Enjoy picnicking on the beach with available facilities like restrooms and changing rooms nearby.
5. Visitors can combine their picnic outing with hiking trails, bird watching, or fishing activities in the park.

Trails
The park features 4.5 miles of trails running through gently rolling, mixed hardwood/conifer forest as well as along the Lake Huron shoreline. There are many wildflowers to view, especially in the spring.

Trails in the park:

Hoeft-Hardwoods Trail - 1.5 (Miles), Hiking, Cross Country Ski

Hoeft-Nagel Creek Trail - 0.75 (Miles), Hiking, Cross Country Ski

Hoeft-Beach Trail - 1.5 (Miles), Hiking, Cross Country Ski

Hoeft-Pavilion Trail - 0.25 (Miles), Hiking, Cross Country Ski
Bicycling
Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy a 4-mile paved trail, suitable for all skill levels. Helmets are strongly recommended.

The park's terrain is relatively flat making it ideal for leisurely rides and family outings on bikes.

Mountain bikers should note that off-road trails aren't available within the park boundaries; stick to designated paths only.

In winter months, biking may be challenging due to snowfall; consider other activities like cross-country skiing instead.

Remember: safety first! Always adhere strictly to posted signs and rules while cycling in this beautiful natural setting.
Birding
The park offers diverse birding opportunities with over 300 species recorded. It features a variety of habitats, including hardwood forests and Lake Huron shoreline. Birdwatchers can spot migratory birds during spring and fall seasons as well as resident species all year round.
Area Attractions
The park is a convenient stop over or staging area for travelers planning activities in the Straits area. The Mackinac Bridge is 50 miles northwest vis US-23. Bicyclists can use the bike trail to Rogers City just 4.5 miles away.

Biking:

A 10-foot wide paved non-motorized trail starts in the day use area and connects at the park entrance to the Huron Sunrise Trail. It stretches to Rogers City riding along the beach next to Lake Huron and ends at Calcite Limestone Quarry, the world's largest open pit limestone mine. This trail also connects to Herman Vogler Conservation Area which includes seven miles of hiking and biking trails.

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.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
September 8 Definitely a Favorite by Mike and the Boys.
park review stars; one to five My boys and I are traveling around Michigan each year, staying at different State Campgrounds each trip. This is one of our favorites so far. We were fortunate to get one of the sites that is backed up against the dunes. Between the swimming and hiking, we never were without something to do. Even found a good Baptist Church (Roger City Baptist) nearby to visit on Sunday. There are rivers nearby and will be planning a return trip next year to add in some kayaking to our excitement.
July 14 Perfect for bikers!!!! by campingams
park review stars; one to five Absolutely perfect campground. Tons of sandy beach right on Lake Huron. Park and facilities are very clean. Most sites are grass and provide nice shade. We live only an hour from this park and have been there five times in the past 15 months. There is a wonderful bike path from the campground in both directions. Riding right on the lake toward 40 Mile Point Lighthouse is a nice easy ride. The lighthouse has free viewing and there is also an old ship wreck onsite as well as a gift shop.
September 2
park review stars; one to five
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