Interlochen State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Interlochen State Park |
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IUCN Category III (Natural Monument)
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Camping at Interlochen State Park
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 Interlochen State Park
Location in Michigan
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| Location | Green Lake Township, Grand Traverse County, Michigan, USA |
| Nearest city | Interlochen, Michigan |
| Area | 187 acres (76 ha) |
| Elevation | 853 feet (260 m) |
| Designation | Michigan state park |
| Established | 1919 (purchased in 1917) |
| Administrator | Michigan Department of Natural Resources |
| Website | Interlochen State Park |
Interlochen State Park is a wonderful outdoor area in Grand Traverse County, Michigan. It spans about 187 acres. The park is located right between two beautiful lakes: Green Lake and Duck Lake. It holds a special place in Michigan's history. This park was the very first official state park in the entire state!
Discover Interlochen State Park
The park was created in 1917. The Michigan Legislature decided to buy the land for $60,000. Its first name was Pine Park. The main goal was to save a special forest. This forest has very old, tall pine trees. These trees are called (Pinus strobus) or white pine.
A Park with History
Interlochen State Park is one of the few places in Michigan where you can see a true old-growth forest. This means the trees have been growing since before European settlers arrived. You can find ancient red pine trees here. They are a rare sight today.
In 1928, a famous place opened next to the park. It was the National Music Camp. Today, it is known as the Interlochen Center for the Arts. This center is a world-renowned school for young artists. It is right next to the park's northern edge.
Fun Things to Do
Interlochen State Park offers many exciting activities. You can go swimming in the clear lake waters. There is also a playground for kids to enjoy. Fishing is popular all year round. You can have a picnic with your family and friends. The park also has great spots for camping.
If you love boats, you're in luck! The park has three different boat launches. This makes it easy to get out on the water. Every July, the park hosts a special event. It is a Three Discipline Triathlon Event. Athletes swim, bike, and run in this exciting race.
