Lime Island State Recreation Area facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lime Island State Recreation Area |
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 Lime Island State Recreation Area
Location in Michigan
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| Location | Lime Island, Michigan, USA |
| Area | 980 acres (400 ha) |
| Established | 2011 |
| Governing body | Michigan Department of Natural Resources |
Lime Island State Recreation Area is a special place in Michigan, USA. It's a large, undeveloped park covering 980 acres (about 396 hectares) on Lime Island. This island is located in the St. Marys River, which connects Lake Superior and Lake Huron. It's a great spot for nature lovers and adventurers who enjoy a quiet, wild experience.
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Discovering Lime Island State Recreation Area
Lime Island State Recreation Area is a unique type of state park. It is kept mostly wild and natural. This means you won't find many buildings or paved roads here. Instead, you'll discover beautiful forests and untouched shorelines.
What to Expect at Lime Island
The park offers a true wilderness experience. There are only five basic campsites available. These are "boat-in" sites, meaning you can only reach them by boat. This makes the park perfect for those who love to explore off the beaten path.
A Look at the Island's Past
Lime Island has a long and interesting history.
- Long ago, it was used as summer camps by Woodland Indians.
- Later, it became a site for a "lime kiln." This was a place where limestone was heated to make lime, a material used in building.
- The island also served as a "ship bunkering site." This means ships would stop here to refuel or resupply.
- At one point, it was even home to a resort!
The state of Michigan bought the island in 1982. For many years, it was managed by the state's Forest Management Division. In 2011, it became the 99th official park unit in Michigan. This transfer helped save the island. It was once planned to be closed due to budget cuts. But becoming a state park helped keep it open for everyone to enjoy.
Wildlife and Activities
Lime Island is home to various animals. You might even spot a moose or a black bear if you are lucky!
Visitors can enjoy several outdoor activities here:
- Hiking: Explore the island's trails and natural beauty.
- Fishing: Try to catch some fish in the surrounding waters.
- Hunting: Hunting is allowed in certain areas during specific seasons.
