Rockport Recreation Area

c/o P.H. Hoeft State Park, 5001 US-23 North
Rogers City MI, 49779

4237 (Acres)

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Boasting a fascinating past as a limestone quarry, this 4,237-acre recreation area stretching along the Lake Huron shoreline in Alpena and Presque Isle counties offers a unique blend of history and outdoor adventure.
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Boasting a fascinating past as a limestone quarry, Rockport Recreation Area stretches along the Lake Huron shoreline in Alpena and Presque Isle counties. This 4,237-acre park, just north of Alpena, offers a unique blend of history and outdoor adventure. Visitors can explore the remnants of the 300-acre quarry, alongside limestone formations, unique sinkholes and a protected natural area. Whether searching for fossils, horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, stargazing or exploring the lakeshore, this park offers a unique experience.

The Besser Natural Area, which forms the north section of the park, can be accessed via the trails or from the Besser Natural Area parking lot. Along with giant pines, the natural area contains a ghost town, a shipwreck and more than 4,000 feet of Lake Huron shoreline.

Please note, there’s no metal detecting in the park.

The park is home to a designated dark sky preserve providing awesome opportunities to view the night sky.

Thanks to the Friends of Rockport / Besser Natural Area for supporting the park.

Trails

Rockport Trails
Trail Length: 20.00 (Miles)

About the Area

View Online Visitor's Guide

Discover US-23: The Huron Shores Heritage Route

The Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center offers exciting exhibits which include a full-size replica wooden Great Lakes schooner and shipwreck where visitors can walk the decks, feel a Great Lakes storm and touch the massive timbers of the boat resting on the lake bottom... without getting wet!

Activities (Display as List)

Cross-Country Skiing Item is accessible.
Cross-Country Skiing
Equestrian Item is accessible.
Equestrian: There are 8 miles of trails open to equestrians. Horseback riding is permitted on marked trails only.
Fishing Item is accessible.
Fishing: Fishing is permitted.
Hiking Item is accessible.
Hiking
History Programs Item is accessible.
History Programs: There are a few interpretive panels giving visitors more information about old quarry operations and local shipwrecks
Hunting Item is accessible.
Hunting: Hunting is allowed in the state park; however, you should call this park directly to inquire about any special rules, concerns or considerations.
Mountain Biking Item is accessible.
Mountain Biking
Paddlesports Item is accessible.
Paddlesports: Depending on the weather and wave activity, paddlers enjoy exploring the shoreline and area around the dock structure.
Pet-Friendly Area Item is accessible.
Pet-Friendly Area: Pets are allowed along the entire length of the Lake Huron shoreline. 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.
Snowmobiling Item is accessible.
Snowmobiling: A snowmobile corridor goes through the park.
Snowshoeing Item is accessible.
Snowshoeing

Facilities (Display as List)

Boat Launch Item is accessible.
Boat Launch: There is a boating access site with dual skid piers that accesses Lake Huron.
Picnic Area Item is accessible.
Picnic Area: The picnic area is in the day-use area parking and includes picnic tables and charcoal grills that are available first come, first served.
Vault Toilet Item is accessible.
Vault Toilet
Water Access Item is accessible.
Water Access: This unique park is set along Lake Huron.