This is Michigan’s Oldest State Park

Located 15 miles southwest of Traverse City, you'll find the oldest state park in Michigan.

While the state of Michigan was founded in 1837, it wasn't until 1917 that the first state park was purchased. It was established by the Michigan Legislature which paid $60,000 for the land. It officially became Michigan's first state park in 1919.

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What is Michigan's Oldest State Park?

Interlochen State Park is Michigan's oldest state park. You'll find the historic park between Green Lake and Duck Lake in Grand Traverse County. The 187-acre park is home to camping, paddling, year-round fishing, swimming, and more. There are also three boat launches on the property.

There are a total of three Michigan state parks that pre-date the creation of the park system in 1919: Mackinac Island State Park -1895, Michilimackinac State Park - 1909, and Interlochen State Park - 1917. However, Interlochen State Park is considered Michigan's first official state park.

SEE ALSO: Flint is Getting a New State Park, Not Everyone is Happy About It

According to Wikipedia, In 1928, the National Music Camp was established on the property adjoining the northern boundary of the park. It is located next to the Interlochen Center for the Arts.

In case you didn't know,  Interlochen Center for the Arts is known worldwide and attracts students from all over to study music, theatre, dance, visual arts, creative writing, motion picture arts, and comparative arts. Jewel, Ed Helms, Terry Crews, and many other celebrities have ties to the school.

Interlochen State Park is now one of over 100 state parks in the state of Michigan.