Divided into two sections, Leelanau State Park consists of 1,350 acres on the tip of Leelanau Peninsula. The area acts as a staging ground for migrants waiting for calm weather before crossing Lake Michigan. This natural occurrence helps to create some fabulous birding opportunities. When visiting the northern section of the park, check the rocky shoreline for shorebirds and the shallow offshore waters for ducks. The Petoskey Stone can be found on the beaches of Leelanau State Park.
The south section of the park, located 4 miles from the north side, features hardwood forests, dunes, and wetlands. There are six miles of color-coded trails for birders to explore, making it easier to find Scarlet Tanagers, Blackburnian Warblers, and other songbirds.