Best Parks in Oakland County

Kensington Metropark
Kensington sits at the western edge of Oakland County with parts in Livingston County. Within its 4,481 acres of hilly, wooded terrain, you’ll find hiking trails, lakes, swimming, cycling, playgrounds, picnic areas, and unlimited opportunities for adventure. Kensington may very well be the best park in the region. This park offers rentals for kayaking during the summer, cross-country skiing in the winter, and many other activities as well. When you’re done, be sure to check out the nature center or grab lunch in nearby downtown Milford. The Huron-Clinton Metroparks require an annual pass which can be purchased for $40. If you’re visiting, a day-pass is $10.

Heritage Park
This park is operated by the City of Farmington Hills, requires no fee, and is open to anyone. You’ll find 211 acres to explore the glacial moraines, a variety of flora, and swamp lands that lie within this large, forested park in Farmington Hills - but don’t worry, you can get past the swamps using the network of boardwalks. The trails are not paved, so bring your boots and dress appropriately for the weather. Be sure to keep an eye out for the native fauna including deer, foxes, raccoons, and turkeys.

Innovation Hills
This park is operated and maintained by the City of Rochester Hills and requires no entrance fee. With 110-acres split by the Clinton River and the associated trail, this is a beautiful park with opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and geocaching. It features a maintained boardwalk, cycling path, and an enormous treehouse-themed playground for the younger park goers. The main parking lot may be full, but the lot across the street from the main lot normally has space.

Independence Oaks
Located in the northern parts of Oakland County, Independence Oaks is the largest county-operated park with 1,286 acres of parkland. Here you’ll find 12-miles of trails, a swimming beach, archery range, and a boat launch. If you’re visiting in the winter months, you can also enjoy cross country ski equipment, which is available for rent to explore 10-miles of groomed trail. The Wint Nature Center is a great spot to learn, with interactive exhibits. An Oakland County parks pass is required to visit. Permits are $30/annually for residents and $48/annually for non-residents. A day-pass can be obtained for $5 for residents, $12 for non-residents.

Normandy Oaks
Normandy Oaks is not a sprawling park with a network of trails. It’s more of a neighborhood park, but it’s one of the best neighborhood parks in the area. Here you’ll find a very popular splash pad next to a large playground, and picnic areas. With lots of shade and some natural areas, this is a great park for a casual summer or fall day that doesn’t require too much effort. When you’re done, you’re only a short distance from adorable Downtown Clawson, so budget time for a meal or drinks here.

Marshbank Park
Marshbank is an 80-acre park along Cass Lake, with public lake access. At this park you’ll find a beautiful 3-seasonal shelter, exercise trail, fishing pier, sand volleyball courts, and multiple playgrounds. There is also a popular seasonal sledding hill located behind the playground, near the front parking lot, off Hiller Road. Be sure to check out the events calendar for this park as you’ll find summer concerts, holiday events, and other special events. Marshbank is also a popular location for natural photography.

Indian Springs Metropark
My favorite spot at Indian Springs is the Environmental Discovery Center which features classrooms, a science lab, and 60-acres of restored native prairie. When you’re done here, there are still 2,500-acres of park to explore! Within Indian Springs you’ll also discover a par-71 golf course, horseback riding, a splash pad, hiking, picnic tables, and plenty of events to keep you busy - so check their calendar.

Shain Park
Shain Park is in a prime location, adjacent to Downtown Birmingham. This park features a plaza with a granite fountain, a band shell, and an impressive statue designed by Marshall Fredericks. The backdrop of this park is the Birmingham skyline, and thus makes it a great place to enjoy some fresh air before or after going out for brunch or drinks with friends.