Forget Lake Michigan, This Underrated State Park Under 2 Hours From Traverse City Has Less-Crowded Beaches

Bordering four of the five Great Lakes and home to more than 11,000 inland lakes within its mitten-shaped borders, the state of Michigan's nickname of "Water Wonderland" is no head-scratcher. However, despite the state and one of its bordering Great Lakes having the same name, there's more to see in Michigan than just Lake Michigan. In fact, the less-visited waterways probably hold better appeal. Case in point is Otsego Lake and its surrounding state park, a serene outdoor oasis for both lakeside fun and beach activities. 

Located less than two hours from Traverse City, Otsego Lake State Park is small — at just 62 acres — but boasts over a half-mile stretch of sand and calm aquamarine waters. "Beautiful, peaceful, sandy beach area. Several picnic tables with grills, and plenty of room to find your own spot," wrote one past visitor on Google. Unlike some dangerous beaches on Lake Michigan that are prone to sudden rip currents, you can safely wade into Otsego Lake's shallow, calm waters and swim while gazing across at its verdant shoreline. Despite this, the park remains relatively underrated and often appears on lists of Michigan's least-visited state parks.

Otsego Lake State Park is great for a weekend family getaway or a quick day trip for quiet waterside views. Plus, as visitors note, the park is normally not busy (except on a few summer days). Luckily, one reviewer on Google explained that the "Beach is huge and there is a second one if it gets too crowded." Guests can stop by from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. to enjoy their recreation of choice — whether that's kayaking into the sunset, casting a line in serene waters, pitching a tent under dense hardwoods, or spending a day reading by the water. On the northern side of the state park is also a dog beach where your little pooch can splash around and find their own carefree slice of paradise.

Otsego Lake's forested slopes frame the edge of the waterfront, where boaters often put in their kayaks and canoes to cruise on the water. A paved boat ramp is located on the southern side of the park for launching motorized watercraft. If you don't have your own boat, there is a place to rent kayaks and paddleboards in the day-use area. (Please note that, as of this publication, the concessions and rentals are temporarily closed for construction work.) Besides jumping in for a refreshing dip and soaking in the views, another favorite pastime when navigating the lake is casting a line. You can reel in walleye, rock bass, perch, and smallmouth bass and enjoy your catches later from a campsite grill.

You wouldn't expect a sizable campground at such a compact state park, but this is where Otsego Lake shines. Its 160 campsites are spread across two spacious campgrounds — North Loop and South Loop — and feature electrical hookups. Amenities include playgrounds and toilets as well as seasonal facilities such as restrooms with showers and a sanitation station. The tree-filled grounds provide ample shade and a particularly magical setting in autumn when the hardwoods burst with fiery fall colors. After all, Michigan is the wildly unexpected state with America's best fall foliage.

Otsego Lake State Park also has a five-person mini cabin with electricity and a kitchenette, though it doesn't have running water or heat. Outside, you can plan cozy picnics and meals at the picnic table — and watch golden sunsets paint surreal lakeside vistas as you wind down after an adventurous day. Once you've had your lakeside fill, drive 7 miles north to enjoy a slice of Switzerland in Gaylord, Michigan's adventurous city with a lively downtown and Swiss-inspired architecture.