Ortonville Recreation Area, located in north Oakland and southern Lapeer counties, is home to several lakes, an equestrian campground, a shooting range and trails open to hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing and mountain biking. The 5,400-acre park is known for its wooded, hilly terrain. Many locals refer to the area as Hadley Hills.
The day-use area at Big Fish Lake offers ample parking, restroom facilities, a picnic area, two picnic shelters, a playground, horseshoe pits and a designated swim area.
The beach house, in the day-use area on Big Fish Lake, includes restrooms and changing rooms.
There are boat launches on Big Fish, Davison and Algoe lakes. Davison and Algoe are no-wake lakes.
There are 12 miles of trail open to horseback riding, a rustic equestrian campground and a staging area (located in the day-use area next to the campground on Fox Lake Road).
Bass, bluegill, pike and other panfish are found in the park’s lakes.
Hunting is allowed in the state park (other than areas posted as closed); however, you should call this park directly to inquire about any special rules, concerns or considerations.
Metal detecting is allowed in certain park areas. Please consult the park map for designated locations and review applicable regulations. Only registered campers can metal detect in campgrounds.
Paddling is popular in the lakes found in the park.
A picnic area, in the Big Fish Lake day-use area, includes picnic tables and charcoal grills that are available first come, first served.
There are two picnic shelters located in the Big Fish Lake day-use area that include picnic tables, charcoal grills, electrical service (Beach Shelter only) and modern toilets. Shelter reservations can be made 12 months in advance at MiDNRReservations.com.
Swings, a slide, a volleyball court and horseshoe pits are located in the day-use area.
The DNR-staffed Ortonville Shooting Range includes rifle/pistol, hand trap and 3D archery ranges. There is a user fee in addition to the Recreation Passport.
The park is open to snowmobiling on the equestrian trails during the winter. Snowmobiles are prohibited in other park areas and trails and in campground areas.
A designated swim area is in the Big Fish Lake day-use area. There is a paved walkway to the beach.
The park is home to Big Fish Lake – a popular multiuse lake – and several smaller lakes and ponds.
This equestrian campground includes 21 sites, many accommodating "big rigs" comfortably. Most sites offer shade during part of the day. Each site is outfitted with picket poles, a fire ring and a picnic table. Other amenities include a hand pump for water, two vault toilets, six horse corrals and a permanent mounting block.
The campground is open to non-equestrian campers July 1-Aug. 31 (otherwise it's dedicated to those camping with horses).
The park offers 10 miles of designated equestrian trails wandering through Hadley Hills. Just a mile down the road is Big Fish Lake, ideal for campers to cool off after their ride.
21
The cabin, nestled at the top of a hill and just off the Bloomer Trail, is equipped with six triple bunk beds, two twin beds, a table, benches, a countertop and a propane fireplace. There is no running water or electricity. A vault toilet is located nearby. You must provide your own linens and towels, cookware, plates and utensils. There is a fire pit, picnic table and charcoal grill outside.
Parking is available at the bottom of the hill, so there is a short uphill walk. The park provides a two-wheeled cart to help transport your supplies.
There is horseshoe pit and volleyball court in front of the cabin.
1
While there aren't any upcoming park events listed at this time, you can check out the DNR's calendar of events.
The park also offers weekly nature programs not listed in the online calendar.
