Hidden Summer Gems in Lapeer: Secret Parks, Trails, and Picnic Spots
There’s something magical about summertime in Lapeer, Michigan. When the sun stretches high in the sky and the days feel just a bit longer, locals know it’s time to get outdoors. But while Rowden Park and Torzewski County Park are beloved staples, sometimes you want to escape the crowds and find a quiet spot all to yourself. Luckily, Lapeer has no shortage of hidden gems—if you know where to look.
Lapeer State Game Area: More Than Just a Hunting Ground
One of the most underrated places to explore is the Lapeer State Game Area. Spanning over 8,000 acres, this massive natural preserve is a sanctuary for wildlife—and for those of us who crave solitude in nature. While hunters frequent the area in the fall, summer unveils a different side: peaceful trails, shaded picnic spots, and glassy lakes reflecting the sky.
A particularly enchanting part of the Game Area is the region once known as the Vernor Estate. Yes, as in Vernors Ginger Ale. Back in the 1920s, James Vernor II built a grand estate here, complete with a sprawling lodge and lakeside views. Though the Eagle Nook Lodge was lost to a fire in 1943, you can still find pieces of its history in the stone walls and crumbling spring house near Long Lake. It’s quiet, beautiful, and full of history—a perfect place for a picnic with a touch of nostalgia
Roods Lake Road Trails: A Walk for the Senses
Just off Roods Lake Road, you'll find a set of lightly trafficked walking paths that wind through woods and wetlands. These are unofficial trails—not marked on many maps—but well-maintained by frequent hikers and quiet enough that you’ll often have the place to yourself. Look out for wildflowers in full bloom, butterflies hovering above the grasses, and maybe even a deer crossing your path.
Bring a hammock or a lightweight chair and pick a shady spot to unwind. The only sounds you’ll hear are the wind in the trees and the chirping of birds. It’s a spot made for reflection—or an undisturbed afternoon nap.
Kayak the Backwaters of Holloway Reservoir
While not technically in Lapeer, the edges of Holloway Reservoir brush close enough to count—and it's worth the short drive. Skip the busy boat launches and explore the tucked-away spots near the Stanley Road entrance. From there, you can paddle into small inlets and channels shaded by trees, where blue herons stalk the shoreline and lily pads float undisturbed.
Pack a cooler with some local deli fare (try Lake Inn’s summer specials), bring your fishing rod, and lose track of time on the water. It’s one of the few places where you can feel totally removed from the rush of everyday life, yet still be home by dinner.
Community Pocket Parks: Small but Mighty
We often overlook the little parks tucked between neighborhoods, but they’re some of the best places for a casual summer hang. Founders Park, behind the Lapeer Community Schools admin building, is one of these mini-gems. With mature trees, picnic tables, and just enough space for a game of frisbee, it’s ideal for a spontaneous get-together or a quiet lunch break outdoors.
Another one to note is Edgewood Pocket Park, a tiny green space on the city’s west side. It’s clean, shaded, and rarely busy. Bring a good book, a lemonade, and enjoy the kind of peaceful simplicity that summer’s meant for.
Insider Tips for Your Summer Outings
- Early mornings or weekday afternoons are your best bet for solitude at these locations.
- Bring bug spray—Lapeer summers are lovely, but the mosquitoes think so too.
- Check local Facebook groups or the DNR website for trail conditions and seasonal access changes.
- If you head into the Game Area, leave no trace. Let’s keep these places pristine for the next explorer.
Whether you’re planning a solo escape, a romantic picnic, or a family adventure, Lapeer’s hidden summer gems are waiting. Sometimes, the best spots are the ones not marked on any map—but whispered about among those who know.
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