Fayette Historic State Park

Historic site / state park

Fayette Historic State Park offers a unique blend of Michigan history and natural beauty on the stunning Garden Peninsula in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. This 711-acre park preserves what was once a bustling industrial community centered around iron smelting in the late 19th century. Visitors to Fayette Historic State Park can explore over 20 historic buildings, wander along picturesque limestone bluffs, and enjoy the pristine shoreline along the harbor of Snail Shell Bay on Big Bay de Noc.

The park combines the appeal of a historic ghost town with the recreational opportunities of a traditional Michigan state park, making it one of the most unique historic destinations in the state.

Getting There

From US-2: Take M-183 south at Garden Corners and follow for approximately 17 miles to the park entrance.

From Escanaba: Drive approximately 30 miles southwest on US-2, then south on M-183.

From St. Ignace/Mackinac Bridge: Drive west on US-2 for approximately 100 miles, then south on M-183.

GPS Coordinates for Park Entrance: 45.7187° N, 86.6673° W

Parking & Access

Fayette Historic State Park offers ample parking in several designated lots:

Main lot near the visitor center with approximately 50 spaces

Secondary lots near the historic townsite and picnic areas

Designated accessible parking spaces near the visitor center and townsite

The park is open year-round from 8:00 AM until dusk, though the historic townsite buildings are only open for interior tours from mid-May through mid-October. A Michigan Recreation Passport is required for entry

What to See & Do

Highlights

Historic Blast Furnace Complex – The centerpiece of the industrial operations with massive stone furnaces and casting house ruins

Limestone Bluff Overlook – Dramatic views of the harbor and Lake Michigan from atop the natural limestone cliffs

Superintendent’s House – Best-preserved residence offering insights into upper management living conditions

Machine Shop – Extensive collection of period tools and equipment

Snail Shell Harbor – Picturesque protected bay with the remains of the original shipping dock

Activities

Self-Guided Historic Tours: Follow the interpretive trail (1.5 miles) through the townsite with 20+ historic structures
Hiking: 5+ miles of trails including:
Beachfront Trail: (0.5 miles)
Bluff Trail: (1.2 miles) with stunning views
Forest Trail: (2.2 miles) through hardwood forest
Swimming: Designated beach area on Snail Shell Bay
Fishing: Shore fishing for smallmouth bass, northern pike, and perch
Boating: Boat launch and harbor access for kayaks and small watercraft
Camping: 80 modern campsites (electricity available) plus 5 rustic cabins
Winter Activities: Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing (ungroomed trails)

Best Time to Visit

The prime season for visiting Fayette Historic State Park is from late May through mid-October when all historic buildings are open and staffed with interpreters (typically 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily). July and August see the highest visitor numbers, particularly on weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to commonly asked questions about Fayette Historic State Park.

What is Fayette Historic State Park?

Fayette Historic State Park is a unique 711-acre Michigan state park that preserves a once-thriving industrial community centered around iron smelting. The park features the remarkably intact remains of a company town that operated from 1867 to 1891, including over 20 historic structures, alongside beautiful limestone bluffs and shoreline along Lake Michigan’s Garden Peninsula.

Do I need a permit to enter Fayette Historic State Park?

Yes, a Michigan Recreation Passport is required for entry to Fayette Historic State Park. Michigan residents can purchase this when renewing their license plate. Non-residents can purchase a daily or annual non-resident Recreation Passport at the park entrance or online through the Michigan DNR website.

When are the historic buildings open for tours?

The historic townsite buildings are open for interior tours from mid-May through mid-October, typically from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily. During the off-season (late October through early May), the park remains open but the historic buildings are closed to interior access.

Can I camp at Fayette Historic State Park?

Yes, Fayette offers 80 modern campsites with electrical hookups, modern restrooms, and shower facilities. Additionally, there are 5 rustic cabins available for rent within the park. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends and holidays, and can be made up to 6 months in advance through the Michigan DNR reservation system.

Is Fayette Historic State Park wheelchair accessible?

The park is partially accessible. Many areas of the historic townsite have paved walkways, and the visitor center and several key historic buildings have wheelchair-accessible entrances. However, some areas have gravel paths or uneven terrain that may present challenges for wheelchair users. The park offers an accessibility guide at the visitor center with detailed information about accessible routes and facilities.

Are pets allowed at Fayette Historic State Park?

Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times and are not permitted inside the historic buildings (service animals excepted). Pet owners must clean up after their animals. Pets are allowed in designated camping areas and on most outdoor trails.