Steeped in history, Wilson State Park offers a scenic escape on 36 wooded acres at the north end of Budd Lake in Clare County. The park was originally the site of the Wilson Brothers Sawmill and Company Store, which thrived in the late 1800s.
The park is home to a modern campground, a playground and a picnic area and offers opportunities for fishing, paddling, swimming, day trips and more.
There is a picnic shelter located in the day-use area that includes picnic tables, charcoal grills, electrical service and vault toilets. Shelter reservations can be made 12 months in advance at MiDNRReservations.com.
The park's track chair expands access beyond traditional wheelchairs. The chair is available for visitors to borrow at no cost.
The beach house is in the day-use area and includes restrooms.
There’s a sidewalk that leaves the park and continues around all of Budd Lake.
Shoreline fishing for muskie is a popular activity in the park.
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.
Kayak and canoe rentals are available at the contact station.
Paddling is popular in Budd Lake.
Pets are allowed along the lakeshore except for the designated swim area. Pets must always be on a 6-foot leash and under an owner’s immediate control. All pet waste must be properly disposed of in trash receptacles.
The picnic area is in the day-use area and includes picnic tables and charcoal grills that are available first come, first served.
The park has a playground featuring double swings, train and truck play features and other interactive playscapes.
The park’s sanitation station is centrally located in the campground, behind the contact station. There is potable water available and two lanes.
The park is open to snowmobiling on open land (backcountry snowmobiling). Snowmobiles are prohibited in campground areas.
A buoyed swim area is in the park’s day-use area. There is an accessible walkway to the water and floating chairs available to borrow.
Enjoy the 175-acre, all-sports Budd Lake.
The modern campground is divided into the north and south loops. Most sites are generous in size, shaded by oaks, maples and pines, and overlook Budd Lake. The campground is located near the designated swimming beach and picnic area. There is 20/30-amp electrical service available on each site and a sanitation station. Recycling is available.
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This modern lodge features two bathrooms (one is accessible), including a shower. It sleeps up to six, with a queen-sized bed, two sets of bunk beds and a queen-sized futon, a kitchen with a stove, refrigerator, microwave, toaster, coffee maker and cooking utensils, a TV with DVD player and a gas log fireplace.
You must provide your own linens.
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The mini cabin sleeps up to five in two bunk beds. The cabin is outfitted with a mini refrigerator, an electric heater, and a table and chairs. A picnic table, a fire pit and a waist-high cook grill can be found outdoors.
You must provide your own linens and cookware.
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This campground, which overlooks Budd Lake, is located just outside the modern campground. It provides picnic tables and a fire pit.
To make a reservation, please call the park.
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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.
