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Walter J. Hayes State Park
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WALTER J. HAYES STATE PARK
WALTER J. HAYES STATE PARK
1220 Wamplers Lake Road
Onsted, Michigan   49265

Phone: 517-467-7401
Reservations: 800-447-2757
Hayes State Park, in the heart of the Irish Hills, is located on Wamplers Lake and Round Lake great for fishing and boating. The park's close proximity to Michigan International Speedway, crafts and antique shows and Hidden Lake Gardens make Hayes State Park a prime tourist destination.
History of the Area
Hayes State Park is one of the system's oldest state parks. Dedicated in 1920's, the park originally was named Cedar Hill State Park. The name changed when the Hayes family donated land to the park with the condition that it be renamed to honor Walter J. Hayes, a Michigan senator. The park has gone through many changes, but the major constant has been the attraction of Michigan's visitors to the recreational waters of Wamplers Lake.
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.
Camping
Hayes-Modern(800) 447-2757 185 site(s)Electrical Service, Mini Cabin, Modern Restrooms, Playground
Nearby Accommodations
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Campgrounds
Enjoy Southeast Michigan's Best Family Camping experience at our clean, quiet, friendly campground. Jumping Pillow, WiFi, Paddle Boats, Minigolf, Swimming, Bicycling and more
12.1 miles from park*
Swimming
1. Walter J. Hayes State Park offers a designated swimming area on Wamplers Lake.
2. Lifeguards are not provided, swim at your own risk.
3. Swimming is permitted during park hours from 8 am to 10 pm.
4. The sandy beach provides easy access to the lake for swimmers of all ages and abilities.
5. The water quality in Wamplers Lake is regularly monitored ensuring safe conditions for swimmers.
6. Pets are prohibited within the swimming areas; they have their separate dog-friendly zones elsewhere in the park.

Boating
Boating access to Wamplers Lake opens the great fishing opportunities and recreational boating opportunities.
Fishing
Anglers can find bluegill, sunfish, crappie, pike, muskie, smallmouth bass and largemouth bass in Wampler's Lake. During the winter, ice fishing is the park's primary activity.


Location
Walter J. Hayes State Park is located near Adrian, Ann Arbor and Brooklyn

Picnicking
Walter J. Hayes State Park offers picnic tables, grills and a pavilion for picnicking with scenic lake views available.
Bicycling
Visitors can enjoy a variety of biking options within this park. However, caution is advised due to varying terrain.

The 5-mile paved bike trail offers scenic views but requires careful navigation around pedestrians and wildlife.

Mountain bikers should be cautious on the off-road trails as they are often shared with horseback riders.

Cyclists must adhere strictly to designated paths for safety reasons; straying from these could lead into potentially dangerous areas.

Biking at night isn't recommended because visibility decreases significantly after sunset in wooded sections of the park.

Remember that helmets are mandatory while cycling here, ensuring your protection against any unforeseen accidents or falls.

Rental bikes may not always be available during peak seasons so plan accordingly if you don't bring your own gear.
Birding
The park offers diverse birding opportunities with over 200 species spotted. It's a hotspot for waterfowl and shorebirds. Birders can explore various habitats including wetlands, prairies, and woodlands. The area is part of the Irish Hills Important Bird Area (IBA).
Area Attractions
For automobile and speed lovers, the Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn is a short drive from the park. Stage Coach Stop, USA, a local theme park, is also within miles of the park. Other local activities include miniature golfing and antique shopping along U.S. 12.

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Michigan
23

Michigan State Parks

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