- Attraction: Seven Lakes State Park
- Location: 14390 Fish Lake Rd, Holly, MI 48442
- Industry: State Park
- Website: https://www.michigan.gov/recsearch/parks/sevenlakes
Imagine stumbling upon a place where six pristine lakes sparkle like scattered jewels across 1,434 acres of rolling Michigan countryside.
Seven Lakes State Park isn’t just another outdoor destination – it’s where crystal-clear waters meet sandy beaches, where hiking trails wind through diverse ecosystems from hardwood forests to restored prairies, and where you can truly disconnect from the everyday hustle just an hour northwest of Detroit.
What makes this Holly gem truly special is its fascinating origin story. Originally seven separate small lakes known as DeCoup Lake, developers in the 1960s constructed a dam that merged them into the stunning Big Seven Lake you see today.
When their development plans fell through in 1969, Michigan gained one of its most beloved state parks.
Now you can experience the best of both worlds – the expansive 170-acre Big Seven Lake perfect for swimming and boating, plus five smaller intimate lakes ideal for peaceful kayaking and fishing.
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Keep Exploring →Water Activities & Beach Experiences
Big Seven Lake Beach: The crown jewel of the park features a large sandy beach that’s meticulously groomed each morning. You’ll find the water refreshingly clear and surprisingly warm during summer months, making it perfect for extended swimming sessions. The designated buoyed swim area ensures safety while the accessible walkway welcomes everyone to enjoy the lakefront.
Kayaking Adventures: With six different lakes to explore, paddling enthusiasts discover endless variety in a single visit. Sand Lake offers intimate kayaking experiences in crystal-clear water that feels more like a mountain lake than a Michigan gem. The smaller lakes provide peaceful paddling where you can spot waterfowl and enjoy the serenity without motorboat traffic disturbing your experience.
Fishing Opportunities: Anglers find diverse fish populations across the lakes. You’ll discover excellent populations of bluegill, bass, pike, tiger muskie, walleye and catfish. Dickinson Lake features an accessible fishing pier, while the various lake arms and islands of Big Seven Lake offer countless spots to cast your line.
Boat Launch Access: Two boat launches provide easy water access – one at Big Seven Lake and another at Dickinson Lake. The no-wake rules maintain the peaceful atmosphere that makes these waters so special for all types of watercraft.
Hiking & Trail System
Seven Lakes Loop Trail: This 4.1-mile trail system stands out as the park’s most popular hiking experience, offering scenic beauty and well-maintained paths. The route takes you around multiple lakes with constantly changing views – from wooded hillsides to sparkling shorelines.
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Discover MoreGreen Trail Adventures: The 2.1-mile Green Trail Loop connects the park’s three largest lakes and offers some of the most spectacular scenery. You’ll traverse rolling hills, cross diverse ecosystems, and enjoy numerous lake overlooks that provide perfect photo opportunities.
Trail Diversity: With five different trail options ranging from 0.3 to 6.3 miles, you can choose everything from easy nature walks to more challenging hikes with elevation gains. The trails accommodate hikers, mountain bikers, and cross-country skiers, making this a year-round destination.
Wildlife Watching: The diverse habitats attract an impressive variety of wildlife. You might spot deer, various waterfowl, woodpeckers in the forested areas, and during migration seasons, numerous warbler species make their way through the park.
Atmosphere & Natural Setting
Diverse Ecosystems: You’ll experience an incredible variety of landscapes within the park boundaries – from mature hardwood forests and wetland fens to open meadows and restored prairie areas. This diversity creates constantly changing scenery as you explore different sections of the park.
Peaceful Lake Settings: Unlike many busier state parks, Seven Lakes maintains a tranquil atmosphere. The smaller lakes especially offer intimate experiences where the only sounds are lapping water and bird calls. Sand Lake provides crystal-clear water perfect for quiet contemplation.
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Keep Exploring →Rolling Hills & Scenic Views: The park’s topography creates beautiful vantage points throughout your visit. Rolling hills surround the lakes, providing elevated perspectives that showcase the water’s pristine beauty and the surrounding forest canopy.
Seasonal Beauty: Each season transforms the park’s appearance. Spring brings wildflowers and migrating birds, summer offers perfect swimming and camping weather, fall displays spectacular foliage reflected in the calm lake waters, and winter creates a peaceful wonderland for cross-country skiing.
Other Considerations
Entry Costs: Michigan residents need a Recreation Passport, which costs just $14 when purchased with license plate renewal or $19 if bought at the park. Non-residents can purchase an annual pass for $41 or a daily pass for $11, making this an incredibly affordable outdoor destination.
Camping Options: The modern campground along Sand Lake offers 27 sites with electrical hookups, clean bathhouse facilities, and easy access to a designated swimming beach. Sites accommodate RVs up to 35 feet, and about half offer lakeside locations with small paths leading to the water.
Equipment Rentals: You can rent kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards by the hour or day through the park office, eliminating the need to transport your own watercraft. Simple Adventures operates a concession in the day-use area for snacks and supplies.
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Discover MoreFamily-Friendly Features: Multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters with grills, and volleyball courts provide entertainment for all ages. The park’s safe, clean environment makes it particularly welcoming for families with young children.
Accessibility: The park includes ADA-compliant features throughout, including accessible campsites, walkways to the water, and an accessible fishing pier on Dickinson Lake.
Best Times to Visit: Summer offers the warmest water temperatures and full concession services. Fall provides stunning foliage and fewer crowds. The annual Harvest Festival in late September features Halloween-themed activities for campers. Spring and early summer offer excellent wildlife viewing during migration seasons.
Seven Lakes State Park
📍 14390 Fish Lake Rd, Holly, MI 48442
