Independence Oaks County Park
Discover kayaking, hiking, and nature at Independence Oaks County Park, featuring accessible features and scenic trails around Crooked Lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Native plants bloom after burns
Independence Oaks County Park
Best Time
Native plants bloom after burns
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover kayaking, hiking, and nature at Independence Oaks County Park, featuring accessible features and scenic trails around Crooked Lake.
"This park has something for EVERYONE thanks to a kayak launch with an accessible launch platform.
🚗 Daily Entry Fees
Oakland County residents with an annual pass get in free; others pay a daily fee .
🛶 Kayak Rentals
Self-serve kayak rentals make it easy to hit Crooked Lake for a few hours of fun .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crooked Lake Kayaking
Crooked Lake
Paddle across a surprisingly large lake, with easy self-serve kayak rentals available for a fun afternoon.
Lewis E. Wint Nature Center
Nature Center
Discover the renovated nature center, offering insights into local flora and fauna after its recent upgrades.
Scenic Lake Loop Trail
Around Crooked Lake
Enjoy a rewarding hike or bike ride on the lake loop, featuring varied terrain with enjoyable ups and downs.
Fall Colors
Throughout the park
Experience the beauty of autumn with vibrant fall foliage, a hidden gem for nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Independence Oaks
Accessibility and Activities
+1 Explore trails for running, biking, or cross-country skiing, and don't miss the Lewis E. Wint Nature Center.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Daily Entry Fees
Oakland County residents with an annual pass get in free; others pay a daily fee.
🛶 Kayak Rentals
Self-serve kayak rentals make it easy to hit Crooked Lake for a few hours of fun.
👟 Trail Variety
Trails offer varied terrain, great for running, biking, or a peaceful walk.
🦅 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for wildlife, including bald eagles, especially in the morning.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Daily Entry Fees
Oakland County residents with an annual pass get in free; others pay a daily fee.
🛶 Kayak Rentals
Self-serve kayak rentals make it easy to hit Crooked Lake for a few hours of fun.
👟 Trail Variety
Trails offer varied terrain, great for running, biking, or a peaceful walk.
🦅 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for wildlife, including bald eagles, especially in the morning.
🔥 Prescribed Burns
Prescribed burns help manage invasive species and promote native plant growth.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Independence Oaks County Park for its beautiful lake loop trail, perfect for running and biking, and the convenient self-serve kayak rentals on Crooked Lake. The renovated Lewis E. Wint Nature Center and the park's commitment to accessibility are also frequently highlighted as positive aspects.
"Love the loop around the lake. Terrain is great with ups and downs. Would have loved to visit in the fall. Good for running or biking."
shiva ram vedere
"Decided to go kayaking and picked here. They had self-serve kayaks, which was pretty easy to rent. Had a great time. Never knew there was such a large lake here. Will be coming back for sure!"
Joe Robertson
"Last year we visited Independence Oaks to visit Lewis E. Wint Nature Center. Upon arrival there was lots of construction going on with the building, but the center was still open. We said we would be coming back to see the nature center finished. That's exactly what we did.
Once we parked, we headed out to walk a trail first and then look at the nature center.
We went down to one of the docks on Crooked Lake and sat there for a while and enjoyed the scenery. We then looked at the map and decided to follow tail #16. It was a very enjoyable walk.
On the way back we walked by the nature center and must say, very nice job!
Once again, we will be coming back to venture down another trail."
BT
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Independence Oaks County Park is located in Independence Township, MI. It's accessible by car, and while specific public transport options might be limited, it's a popular destination for locals.
Yes, there are parking areas available within the park. The size of the park means you can usually find a spot, though it might be busier during peak times.
The park is situated off Maybee Road between Baldwin and Clintonville. It's recommended to use a GPS or mapping app for precise directions to your desired area within the park.
Independence Oaks County Park has multiple access points, including entrances to both the North and South units, offering different trailheads and activity areas.
The park is well-marked and a known local spot, especially for those familiar with the Clarkston/Independence Township area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Oakland County residents with an annual park pass can enter for free. Non-residents or those without a pass will incur a daily entry fee, which can vary.
Advance ticket purchase is generally not required for daily entry. You can pay upon arrival. However, for special events or group rentals, booking in advance is recommended.
Park hours typically align with general county park operating times, usually from dawn to dusk. It's always best to check the official Oakland County Parks website for the most current hours.
The primary way to save on entry is by purchasing an annual pass if you are an Oakland County resident and plan to visit multiple times. Daily fees are standard for others.
Yes, you can rent kayaks through a self-serve system on Crooked Lake. Other amenities like picnic shelters may also be reservable.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy kayaking, fishing, swimming at the beach, hiking, biking, cross-country skiing in winter, and visiting the Lewis E. Wint Nature Center.
Yes, the park offers a variety of trails, including the popular lake loop which has varied terrain, making it enjoyable for different fitness levels.
Absolutely! With a beach, playground, nature center, and open spaces, it's a great spot for family outings.
Facilities include restrooms, picnic areas with pavilions (some reservable), a beach, kayak launch, fishing piers, and the nature center.
Yes, there is a beach area where swimming is permitted during designated times, and beach wheelchairs are available for accessibility.
📸 📸 Photography Spots
The lake loop trail offers beautiful scenery, especially during fall.
Yes, the shores of Crooked Lake provide numerous vantage points for capturing serene water reflections and expansive views.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for landscape and wildlife photography. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly stunning over the lake.
The park is home to various wildlife, including birds of prey like bald eagles.
Look for the 'heart' shape visible from certain vantage points
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
and a playground for more active fun. The Lewis E. Wint Nature Center offers engaging exhibits that can spark curiosity in young minds about local wildlife and nature.With ample space for picnics and easy-to-navigate trails like the lake loop, families can enjoy a full day outdoors. The availability of accessible features, such as beach wheelchairs, ensures that all family members can participate comfortably in the park's activities.
+1🛶 Kayakers and Boaters
The lake itself is surprisingly large, offering a good amount of space to explore. Whether you're looking for a leisurely paddle or a more active workout, the lake is ideal. Anglers will also find fishing piers available for a relaxing day of casting a line.
🏃♀️ Runners and Cyclists
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Embracing Accessibility at Independence Oaks
+1 This commitment extends to the beach area, where beach wheelchairs are available, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the lakeside experience.Beyond water activities, the park's trails and facilities are designed with inclusivity in mind. The Lewis E. Wint Nature Center has undergone renovations to improve accessibility, making its educational exhibits and natural displays available to a wider audience. This focus on barrier-free recreation is a core value for the park, as highlighted by organizations like Wheels in Motion, who are planning future adaptive recreation events here.
Whether you're looking to paddle, fish, or simply enjoy the natural beauty, Independence Oaks is working to remove barriers and create a welcoming environment for all visitors. Their dedication to accessibility makes it a standout destination for inclusive outdoor enjoyment.
Exploring the Trails and Natural Beauty
The park's natural landscape is also enhanced by its commitment to ecological health. You might witness prescribed burns, a sustainable practice used to manage invasive species and promote the growth of native plants, ensuring the park's biodiversity thrives.
This ecological management contributes to the park's overall beauty, especially during the vibrant fall colors that draw visitors seeking autumn scenery.+1For those interested in local flora and fauna, the Lewis E. Wint Nature Center offers an educational component to your visit. After recent renovations, it provides a closer look at the park's natural inhabitants and ecosystems. Combined with the diverse trails, Independence Oaks offers a rich experience for nature enthusiasts and active visitors alike.
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