Sanilac County: Shipwrecks, Petroglyphs, and Lake Huron

Sanilac County lies on the shore of Lake Huron. There are many different themes to consider when planning your trip: maritime history, lessons engraved in stone, museums, and nature trails. You can tailor your stay according to whether you are interested in cultural sites, shipwrecks, or the landscape along the water.

Lake Huron and Maritime History

The Sanilac County Underwater Preserve covers 163 square miles of protected lakebed. The wreck of the Sport is a distinct historical landmark: in 1992, Michigan’s first underwater memorial marker was installed there. The year and location of the marker make this history tangible, while the Preserve’s large area conveys the extent of the protected lakebed.

The Regina is a 250-foot-long steel freighter and lies upside down in 80 feet of water. The length and depth give you two different measurements for this wreck: one describes the ship, while the other describes its position below the water’s surface.

The Tip of the Thumb Heritage Water Trail has a station in Port Sanilac. The best way to use the route is with sea kayaks and appropriate sea kayaking training. This is an important distinction for planning: both a specific water-trail station and the recommended way to use it are highlighted here.

Petroglyphs and Historic Walks

Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park is home to Michigan’s largest known collection of early Native American teachings engraved in stone. A self-guided interpretive loop trail about one mile long crosses a branch of the Little Cass River. The trail combines exercise with an opportunity to learn about the site.

A 0.25-mile, accessible path made of compacted limestone also leads to the petroglyph viewing area. A covered enclosure protects the viewing area from bad weather. The two paths therefore differ considerably in length and character: one centers on a loop walk, while the other offers a shorter, accessible route to the viewpoint.

Sanilac County Historic Village & Museum is a 10-acre heritage site with seventeen preserved and restored buildings. You can choose between guided and self-guided tours. If you want to plan a guided tour in advance, check the schedule before your visit. The number of buildings and the choice of tour offer two different ways to approach your visit: the site’s architectural history and how you would like to explore it.

Parks and Nature Trails

Evergreen Park borders the Cass River and offers nature trails. Check seasonal access and amenities before your visit. At Forester Park, a location on the scenic shore of Lake Huron meets nature trails. The two parks therefore offer different landscapes: the Cass River at Evergreen Park and the lakeshore at Forester Park.

Lexington Park has a swimming beach. A scenic wooden bridge connects the park’s northern and southern sections. The beach and bridge give visitors two specific points of reference, while Forester Park offers a different park setting, with its lakeside location and nature trails.

Visit Dates

In 2026, the Port Sanilac Farmer’s Market is scheduled to run from May 8 through October 30, on Fridays from 1 to 5 p.m. Check the dates for your year of travel before planning your stay around the market. This lets you combine market hours with the cultural and scenic highlights that interest you in Sanilac County.

Discover more destinations: Palms, Isabella, Branch, Muskegon, Alger County, Oceana County, Lenawee County, Mason County.

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