Bay City Recreation Area

Quick Facts

Michigan

(989) 684-3020

Map Directions

Things To Do

Overview

Bay City State Recreation Area, situated on the shores of the Saginaw Bay, is home to one of the largest remaining freshwater, coastal wetlands on the Great Lakes, the Tobico Marsh. A mile of sandy shoreline and over 2,000 acres of wetland woods, wet meadows, cattail marshlands and oak savannah prairies make it an ideal staging area for migratory birds. The park has long been known for its outstanding variety of bird life and as a haven for wetland wildlife and plants.

Map of Bay City Rec. Area (MI)

Latitude, Longitude: 43.666630, -83.908768

Bicycling
The three mile Andersen Natural Trail follows a railway corridor and connects to the Bay City Trailway System to the south of the park. Bicycles are welcomed on established park roads and on trails designated for such use.
Camping
193 modern sites at the recreation are offer electrical service and modern restrooms. Two group sites can be reserved by contacting the park. Group sites are primitive.
Fishing
The Tobico Lagoon provides pike, carp, bass and panfish. An accessibile fishing pier makes shore fishing available to all. Additional DNR-managed boating access sites are within a few miles of the park. Ice fishing is just off the park's shore in the winter months.
Hiking
More than seven miles of trails help visitors explore the wetlands. Offereings include over three miles of paved accessible pathways, three observation towers, boardwalks, viewing platforms and shoreline spotting scopes. Bicycles and rollerblades are welcome.
Historic Sites
The observation towers at Tobico Marsh are closed for safety repairs.
Hunting
Deer, waterfowl and small game are allowed during open seasons.
Picnicking
Visitors can picnic on the sandy shoreline of the Bay or under the shelter of lofty cottonwoods and ash trees which border the Tobico Lagoon. The picnic areas offer tables and fire pits/grills. Five shelters are available for rent.
RVing
193 modern sites at the recreation are offer electrical service and modern restrooms.
Water Sports
Swimming is offered at the park. A beach house is open seasonally.
Winter Sports
Cross-country skiing is availible on trails during the winter months.