OAKLAND COUNTY, Mich. – Entrance fees and car permits to get into all parks operated by Oakland County Parks have been eliminated.
This comes from a commitment in the Oakland County Parks millage proposal that was approved by voters in the November election, according to a release from the county.
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“More than 7,000 acres of county parkland are now available for residents to explore and enjoy at no cost thanks to the tremendous support of voters for increased funding for Oakland County Parks,” Director Chris Ward said. “We are grateful to the taxpayers and will be working hard to ensure their investment in recreation pays big dividends in the form of great parks, trails and things to do throughout the year.”
In addition to waiving the fees, the millage funding will also allow Oakland County Parks to make improvements at the parks, expand trails, provide opportunities for school field trips and enrichment programs for people of all ages and more.
What Oakland County Parks can I get into for free?
The following parks and dog parks are operated by Oakland County Parks:
- Addison Oaks
- Catalpa Oaks
- Groveland Oaks
- Highland Oaks
- Independence Oaks
- Lyon Oaks (park and dog park)
- Orion Oaks (park and dog park)
- Pontiac Oaks, Red Oaks (nature center and dog park)
- Rose Oaks
- Springfield Oaks
- Waterford Oaks
Free entry provides visitors with the opportunity to walk trails, cast fishing lines, use playgrounds, play pickleball and more! In the winter months, guests can participate in activities like skiing, snowshoeing and fat tire biking.
What activities do I have to pay for at Oakland County Parks?
While entrance fees are waived, there will still be feeds for activities like golf, waterpark tickets, campground reservations, off-road vehicle park entry and other activities.
In addition, this fee elimination applies only to parks run by Oakland County Parks. State parks, Huron-Clinton Metroparks and other local parks operated by other agencies may still require fees and permits to enter.
What if I don’t live in Oakland County?
People who don’t live in Oakland County but want to visit its parks "will be asked to make a voluntary contribution in recognition of support provided by Oakland County taxpayers to develop and maintain the parks system," according to the release.
