Discover Arenac County

In Arenac County, coastal landscapes and wetlands meet walking trails, winter activities, and local history. The natural attractions vary considerably: some places are ideal for birdwatching and marshland, while others offer a sandy beach or trails along the lake and through the forest.

Wetlands and nature observation

The Wigwam Bay State Wildlife Area encompasses 3,137 acres of coastal marshland in Arenac County. At the Au Gres Delta Nature Preserve, 97.5 percent of the land is classified as wetlands in the National Wetlands Inventory. The preserve borders the west shore of Saginaw Bay on Lake Huron and is located on the Au Gres River. Birdwatching opportunities are available here.

From the parking lot at the Saganing Trailhead, visitors can reach a dense woodland area and the Saganing River delta wetland. Snowshoeing is also among the winter activities available there. Eickholt-Pressprich Nature Preserve offers hiking opportunities and provides habitat for frogs, turtles, deer, waterfowl, and wildflowers. A parcel added at the end of 2014 brought a stretch of Lake Huron shoreline and recreational access for visitors to the preserve.

A different approach to a protected natural area is in effect at the Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge: it is closed to the public to protect sensitive colonial-nesting waterbirds and a federally endangered plant species.

Coast, lakes, and trails

Point Au Gres Park is located on Lake Huron at Saginaw Bay and offers access to more than 900 feet of sandy beach. It is also considered the main launch site for the Arenac County Blue Water Trail. The project began in 2013 with the aim of creating opportunities for kayakers and canoeists to observe waterfowl and wildlife along the northern shore of Saginaw Bay. The trail is still in progress and is mostly a wilderness experience; access along the coast is limited and facilities are scarce. Take these conditions into account when planning your trip.

Oasis Lake is a 22-acre, clear spring-fed lake completely surrounded by a sandy shore. At Oasis Lake Park, Andy's walking trail runs along the lake and through the woods. Alongside coastal and wetland landscapes, visitors can enjoy walks by the water and among the trees.

Parks and activities in Au Gres

The City of Au Gres operates Riverside Park, which is open to the public free of charge. It has a splash pad and a dock for transit boats. At Au Gres City Park, a lit waterfront path runs along the Au Gres River. A four-mile bike trail also runs from downtown to the river's mouth.

Other recreational offerings have different highlights: Youngman-Fiddler Park is a roadside park with a pavilion. Old Airport Disc Golf Course is a free, publicly accessible 18-hole course. The Au Gres Farmer’s Market takes place at Riverside Park Pavilion on Fridays and Saturdays from June through August. If you would like to plan your visit around it, check the specific dates.

Museums and local history

The Arenac County Historical Society Museum features an exhibit on commercial fishing. It includes a stationary 1910 IHC engine, nets, and fishing equipment. Ye Olde Courthouse houses the North East Michigan (NEM) Baseball League Museum, covering the period from 1916 to 1986. In the museum room at Standish Historic Depot, you’ll find railroad artifacts, depot memorabilia, and photos and documents on local history.

These different highlights can help you tailor your travel plans to your interests.

Discover more destinations: Au Gres, Alger, Wayne, Dickinson County, Menominee County, Allegan County, Houghton, Ottawa

For the main travel overview: Michigan.