Craig Lake State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Craig Lake State Park |
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IUCN Category V (Protected Landscape/Seascape)
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 Craig Lake State Park
Location in Michigan
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| Location | Spurr Township, Baraga County, Michigan |
| Nearest town | Nestoria, Michigan |
| Area | 8,459 acres (3,423 ha) |
| Elevation | 1,716 feet (523 m) |
| Designation | Michigan State Park |
| Established | 1967 |
| Administrator | Michigan Department of Natural Resources |
| Website | Craig Lake State Park |
Craig Lake State Park is a special place in Michigan. It's a huge park, about 8,459 acres big. You'll find it in Baraga County, on Michigan's Upper Peninsula. This park is quite wild and remote. Many of its beautiful lakes can only be reached by walking or paddling a boat. It's a perfect spot for adventure!
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The Park's Story: How it Became Craig Lake State Park
From Private Land to Public Park
Long ago, this area was not a public park. It was a private getaway for a man named Fred Miller. He was the president of a big company called Miller Brewing Company. Fred Miller built cabins here. These cabins are still used by visitors today.
He also named three of the park's lakes. He named them after his own children: Teddy, Craig, and Claire. After Fred Miller passed away in 1954, the state of Michigan bought more land. They purchased over two thousand acres from his family in 1956. This land, combined with what the state already owned, became Craig Lake State Park in 1967.
Fun Things to Do at Craig Lake State Park
Hiking and Exploring Trails
Craig Lake State Park is known for its rugged hiking trails. One popular trail is an 8-mile loop around Craig Lake. It's a great way to see the lake's beauty up close. Part of the famous North Country National Scenic Trail also runs through the park. This section is about 7 miles long.
Camping and Outdoor Adventures
If you love camping, this park offers rustic camping. This means the campsites are simple, without many modern facilities. It's perfect for a true outdoor experience. You can also go fishing in the lakes. Anglers often catch fish like muskellunge and northern pike.
Winter Activities
When winter arrives, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland. You can enjoy cross-country skiing on the trails. Snowmobiling is another popular activity. It's a great way to explore the park's snowy landscapes.
