Ionia Recreation Area

Has your pup been begging for some time in the great outdoors? Then it’s time for a visit to Ionia State Recreation Area. Rolling hills, open meadows, babbling brooks forested ridges- what more can you ask for? Your doggo will pawsitively love this place!

When you arrive, your pup will pawbably want to hit the trails right away. Ionia State Recreation Area has miles and miles of trails that showcase the area’s puptacular beauty. Hike through the woods, along the streams, and around the river bottoms. The shortest trail is 3.5 miles and is aptly called the Ionia-Hiking Trail. At 9 miles, the Ionia-Chief Cob-Moo-Sa Trail is the longest trail. Some trails are also used by mountain bikers, so be aware of your surroundings.

Ionia State Recreation Area is home to several field dog trials throughout the year. Since most of them allow spectators, your furry friend can stop by and cheer on their fellow canines. Or if your pup is a sporting breed, consider getting involved with one of the organizations. Make sure to pack clean-up bags and water for your adventure through this pawtastic park.

Bring along a couple sleeping bags and stay the night in the park’s campground. The campsites can be reserved online, and some are ADA accessible. At the modern campground, you have access to electric hookups, modern restrooms, and sanitation stations. Other pupular activities at the park include fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, or in the winter, cross-country skiing or snowmobiling.

Be sure to get your Michigan Recreation Passport so you can access this, and all Michigan state parks for an entire year. The pass is $11.00, and can be purchased with vehicle license renewals for Michigan residents, or at the entrance to the park. Recreation Passports are also available for non-residents.

Make no mistake, your furry friend will go mutts over this pawsome park!