MI DNR Paris Field Office

Michiganders know that the best getaways involve water, woods, and trails—and the **MI DNR Paris Field Office Campground**, officially known as **Paris Park Campground** and managed by Mecosta County Parks, delivers on all three. Nestled in the heart of the Lower Peninsula, just north of Big Rapids, this site is a true gem offering a blend of natural recreation and local history. The park sits adjacent to the beautiful Muskegon River and the White Pine Trail, making it a perfect destination for both the avid adventurer and the camper seeking a quiet, family-friendly retreat.

Unlike a typical state-run facility, this campground has a unique local history. It was originally established in 1881 as Michigan's second fish-rearing facility, a major supplier of salmon and brown trout for decades. After being closed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Mecosta County Park Commission acquired the land in the 1970s, lovingly refurbishing it into the popular recreational area it is today. While the address is associated with the former DNR Paris Field Office, the campground is now a premier Mecosta County Park destination. Today, visitors can still see—and even feed—the trout in the ponds, connecting them directly to the site's rich heritage.

Introduction / Overview

The **Paris Park Campground** is a welcoming and well-equipped camping facility located in the village of Paris, Michigan. Operating as a county park, it provides a crucial service to Michigan's outdoor enthusiasts, offering 66 campsites, multiple group sites, and several cabins. The campground's identity is defined by its deep historical roots and exceptional natural surroundings. It is perfectly situated between the White Pine Trail and the Muskegon River, offering unique recreational opportunities right at your campsite.

The atmosphere is family-friendly, well-maintained, and focused on providing a comfortable and engaging outdoor experience. Whether you’re looking to fish, bike, paddle, or simply relax under a broadleaf canopy of trees, Paris Park is a cherished part of the Mecosta County park system, upholding the high standards of Michigan's recreational lands. It typically operates seasonally, running from late April through the end of September, with reservations highly recommended due to its popularity among local Michigan residents.

Location and Accessibility

Located in the small, charming village of Paris, the campground is remarkably accessible for a retreat that feels so secluded.

• **Address:** 22250 Northland Dr, Paris, MI 49338, USA. This address places it approximately eight miles north of Big Rapids, making for an easy drive from US-131.
• **Key Proximity:** It is located directly adjacent to the **White Pine Trail State Park**, a paved 92-mile linear trail perfect for biking, walking, and running. The campground also backs up to the scenic **Muskegon River**.
• **Accessibility:** The park is committed to inclusivity, offering key accessible features for guests with mobility needs, including a **Wheelchair accessible entrance** and a dedicated **Wheelchair accessible parking lot**. Modern toilet buildings are also typically designed with accessibility in mind, though specific site-by-site availability should be confirmed upon reservation.
• **Local Access:** Though the campground offers a serene escape, it is an easy drive from the services and supplies available in the nearby city of Big Rapids.

Services Offered

Paris Park provides a range of services designed to maximize comfort and recreational fun for all campers:

• **Camping Accommodations:** Offers a total of 66 diverse campsites, including tent sites, two large group campsites, and sites with electric hook-ups and water outlets. Approximately 20 sites are equipped with full hook-ups (water, sewer, and electric).
• **Lodging Options:** For those without a tent or RV, the park offers three comfortable **Cabins** for rental, providing a sheltered camping experience.
• **Sanitation and Utilities:** Features modern bathhouses with **flush toilets and showers**, ensuring a comfortable stay. A sanitary dump station is also available for RV users.
• **River Recreation:** Provides a dedicated **Canoe/Kayak/Tube Launch** site on the Muskegon River. The park also offers convenient **Tube Rentals and Transportation** services to launch sites upriver, allowing guests to float back directly to the park.
• **Trail Access:** Direct access to the **White Pine Trail**, a major Michigan linear trail, is provided for bikers and hikers.

Features / Highlights

The unique attractions and historical elements of Paris Park make it a standout destination in Michigan's camping scene:

• **Historic Fish Hatchery:** Visitors can explore the preserved hatchery building which contains a pictorial history of the site. The presence of trout ponds where visitors can feed the fish is a family-friendly highlight.
• **The Mini Eiffel Tower:** A quirky and memorable landmark, the park features its own miniature replica of the Eiffel Tower, adding unique photo opportunities and a memorable marker for the village of Paris.
• **Muskegon River Access:** Easy access to the river provides fantastic opportunities for **fishing** (trout fishing is popular), canoeing, kayaking, and tubing, which is especially popular during the summer months.
• **Family Amenities:** Features multiple **Playgrounds**, a sand volleyball court, basketball court, and horseshoe pits, ensuring plenty of on-site activities for children and families.
• **Excellent Ratings:** The park often receives high ratings from campers, particularly for its clean restrooms/showers and the welcoming, helpful nature of the park staff.

Contact Information

For reservations, current seasonal information, and inquiries about the DNR's ongoing activities in the region, use the following contact details:

Address: 22250 Northland Dr, Paris, MI 49338, USA (Commonly associated with the Mecosta County Parks address of 22090 Northland Dr.)
Phone: (231) 465-4188 (MI DNR Paris Field Office - General Inquiry)
Park Reservations Phone: (231) 796-3420 (Paris Park Office - Highly recommended for camping/cabin bookings)
*Reservations for the campground are highly recommended and are typically handled through the Mecosta County Parks reservation system.*

What is Worth Choosing

For Michigan locals seeking a camping experience that is rich in history and abundant in recreation, **Paris Park Campground** is an undeniable choice. It is worth choosing for the unique combination of the historic fish hatchery, the fun of tubing and paddling the Muskegon River, and the convenience of direct access to the White Pine Trail. This is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it’s a destination where the kids can feed trout, you can bike for miles on a paved trail, and you can unwind in a clean, quiet, and family-friendly environment. The park’s commitment to excellent amenities, including modern restrooms and key accessibility features, ensures a comfortable and memorable Upper Lower Peninsula vacation for every member of your family.

MI DNR Paris Field Office

22250 Northland Dr, Paris, MI 49338, USA