Interlochen State Park | |
---|---|
Location within the state of Michigan
|
|
Location | Green Lake Township, Grand Traverse County, Michigan,USA |
Nearest city | Interlochen, Michigan |
Coordinates | 44°37′40″N 85°45′46″W / 44.62778°N 85.76278°WCoordinates: 44°37′40″N 85°45′46″W / 44.62778°N 85.76278°W |
Area | 187 acres (76 ha) |
Established | 1917 |
Governing body | Michigan Department of Natural Resources |
http://www.michigandnr.com/parksandtrails/Details.aspx?id=460&type=SPRK |
Interlochen State Park is the State of Michigan's first officially recognized state park. Situated between two freshwater lakes (Green Lake and Duck Lake), it is a popular camping destination. It was established by the Michigan Legislature in 1917; $60,000 was paid for the land. Originally named Pine Park, the 187-acre (76 ha) public park was created to preserve for future generations the virgin pine (Pinus strobus) stand. It is one of the few easily reached places in Michigan where old-growth (pre-European settlement) red pine can be found.
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.
Also popular at Interlochen State Park is the Three Discipline Triathlon Event hosted each July.