Metamora-Hadley

Metamora-Hadley State Recreation Area covers over 700 acres in Lapeer County in southeastern Michigan. The recreation area features rolling terrain, small lakes, and mixed forests that provide year-round outdoor recreation opportunities. The area's proximity to the Detroit metropolitan area makes it a popular destination for hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and winter sports.

White-tailed deer, foxes, coyotes, and wild turkeys inhabit the recreation area. The lakes support bass and panfish. Diverse songbird communities thrive in the forest and edge habitats. Hawks and owls hunt the area. Blanding's turtles, a state-threatened species, are found in the wetland areas.

The recreation area features a mix of oak-hickory forest, pine plantations, and open meadows. Red oak, white oak, and shagbark hickory dominate the native forest. The understory includes dogwood, spicebush, and various wildflowers. Wetland areas support typical marsh vegetation.

The rolling terrain is a glacial landscape of moraines and kettle lakes. The elevation changes provide the varied topography that makes the area attractive for hiking and horseback riding.

Humid continental climate with warm summers and cold, snowy winters typical of southeastern Michigan.

The area was home to indigenous peoples including the Ojibwe. Euro-American settlement brought farming. The nearby village of Metamora is known for its historic character and fox hunting tradition.

Metamora-Hadley State Recreation Area was established to provide outdoor recreation near the growing Detroit metropolitan area.

Trails for hiking and horseback riding are the primary attractions. Fishing in the small lakes is available. Hunting is permitted in season. Cross-country skiing serves winter visitors.

The recreation area is near Metamora in Lapeer County. Parking and trail access are provided. The Detroit area provides full visitor services approximately 60 miles south.

The recreation area manages its diverse habitats for wildlife and recreation. Wetland protection helps support threatened turtle populations.