Fall, of course, is all about football. Every fall, probably my favorite thing about the season is going to a football game and watching games on TV. If you read this publication, then you know that I’m a huge Detroit Lions fans. When it comes to football, I can really watch any NFL game and get into it. For college, I root for the Michigan State Spartans, as I graduated from there. It’s hard to support them right now, as they’re losing game after game, but I believe in this team. When you’re not watching football this season, why not visit a beautiful Michigan state park? If that sounds like fun to you, here are some of the best Michigan State parks for any season, including fall foliage.

Best Michigan State Parks for Any Season

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Ontonagon

Those who live in the Upper Peninsula sometimes feel left out of Michigan best-of lists, and it’s a fair point. I’ve seen plenty of Michigan lists where the UP is totally left out. But, not this one. The UP is home to the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Ontonagon, featuring vast forest, lakes, rivers and streams. It’s really a Michigan paradise, encompassing 60,000 acres. One highlight is the North Country Trail, which features 23 miles within the state park of secluded trails that are perfect for a hike or bike ride. It’s a hilly area, so it’s a bit advanced, but it’s a great workout.

Sleepy Hollow State Park in Laingsburg

I haven’t seen Sleepy Hollow State Park on many best-of lists, and that’s a shame. It’s one of my favorite spots for pretty much any season that doesn’t have snow and ice. The park features more than 2,600 acres, including a large river that makes it was through the woods and trails. The park also houses Lake Ovid  and the Little Maple River and covers 410-acres.

Hartwick Pines State Park in Grayling

Grayling his home to one of the biggest state parks in Michigan’s lower peninsula with Hartwick Pines. It features plenty of hills and trails, as well as the AuSable River and Old Growth Pines. It’s a great place for families, couples and singles to enjoy the outdoors in the Mitten.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore near Munising

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of Michigan’s greatest landmarks. It’s one of America’s first national lakeshores, which makes it extra special, and sits along the southern shore of Lake Superior in the U.P. While this may not technically be a state park, if you’re looking for picturesque beaches, you’ll find it here. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore also offers almost 100 miles of trails and 10 inland lakes.

There are a few options when it comes to state parks to visit this season, or any season. I would suggest visiting these spots in the spring and fall, as those offer the most mild temperatures. If you’re a snow bunny, then winter is a great time, too, and if you don’t mind the crowds, summer also offers good opportunities to enjoy these areas. Check out some great Michigan road trips here.