There are two fantastic interconnected nature areas on the shores of Saginaw Bay: Tobico Marsh and Bay City State Park. Both of these locations offer a long list of outdoor recreational activities and opportunities for visitors to enjoy the beauty of Saginaw Bay on Lake Huron. From picnics and long walks on the sandy shoreline to hiking trails and birdwatching, you’ll love enjoying the fresh air and immersing yourself in the natural surroundings at Bay City State Park.
The 2,000-acre Tobico Marsh lies within Bay City State Park, and it’s the largest remaining freshwater coastal wetlands on the Great Lakes. With its extensive marshes, open lagoon, and location along a central migratory bird flyway, this area is unique and valuable to our environment. The diverse and distinct habitats are ideal for nesting birds, shore birds, and coastal wildlife. Bay City State Park and Tobico Marsh are must-visits for birdwatching enthusiasts.
As a guest at our Central Michigan Bed and Breakfast, you’ll be a quick 15-minute drive to Bay City State Park and Tobico Marsh. The Historic Webster House is the ideal location for a romantic getaway, couple’s retreat, or solo trip to our charming small town on Saginaw Bay. You can spend your days exploring the best things to do in our area and your evenings in the complete comfort of one of our elegant guest rooms. Each morning, we’ll treat you to a fantastic breakfast—homemade with care and seasonal ingredients. We can’t wait to host you; book your room today!
Get Out in Nature at Bay City State Park & Tobico Marsh
After you’ve savored your homemade breakfast, you’ll be set and ready to explore the natural beauty of Bay City State Park and Tobico Marsh. From boardwalks and observation towers to hiking trails and picnic areas, there’s something for everyone to discover. Whichever you decide, you’ll revel in the beauty of the shores of Saginaw Bay and soak up the crisp fall sunny days.
Here are the best things to do at Bay City State Park and Topico Marsh:
- Hiking and Nature Trails: Bay City State Park offers several hiking and nature trails, including the Tobico Marsh Trail, which takes you through wetlands and offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. About seven miles of hiking trails, including three miles of paved routes, are ideal for leisurely strolls and bike rides. Along the paved pathways, you’ll encounter three observation towers, boardwalks, viewing platforms, and shoreline spotting scopes for the best birdwatching opportunities.
- Birdwatching and Wildlife Viewing: As the largest remaining freshwater coastal wetland, Tobico Marsh is a prime destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. It is home to various waterfowl, wading birds, and other wildlife species. You may spot herons, egrets, ducks, and more. Located along many bird migration paths, Spring and Fall are the ideal seasons to spot rare species, such as ruddy duck, redhead duck, and yellow-headed blackbird.
- Tobico Marsh Boardwalk: The boardwalk that extends into the marsh allows visitors to get up close to the wetland environment without disturbing it. The boardwalk is an excellent place for photography and observation.
- Go Fishing: There are some fantastic fishing opportunities in this area! Bay City State Park is a perfect place for anglers to enjoy fishing in Saginaw Bay for species like perch, walleye, and smallmouth bass.
- Pack a Picnic: Several picnic areas are equipped with tables and grills, making it an ideal spot for a romantic lunch or early afternoon snack.
- Beach and Swimming: The park features a sandy beach along the Saginaw Bay shoreline, making it a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing during summer.
Other Beautiful Nature Areas to Visit near Bay City:
For those who want to explore more of our stunning scenery in Central Michigan, here are a few other nature areas to add to your itinerary:
- Dow Gardens: This 110-acre garden and nature preserve is home to the nation’s longest canopy walk in the Whiting Forest. The elevated walkway is a lovely activity, and you’ll feel like you’re in the treetops.
- Quanicassee Wildlife Area: The most popular trail at this lakefront park and wetland area on the shores of Lake Huron is the three-mile Joseph M. Soehnel Nature Trail. It’s an excellent place for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
- Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge: While this area is about an hour from Bay City, it’s one of the largest wetland ecosystems in the state and home to many species of migratory birds and other wildlife.
The Best Central Michigan Bed and Breakfast for Your Next Getaway
There’s nothing quite like spending a beautiful fall day immersed in nature at Bay City State Park, knowing you’ll have your elegant guest room at our Central Michigan Bed and Breakfast awaiting your return. Our six guest rooms are unique in their appointments and include a variety of amenities, including some rooms with infrared or dry saunas, jacuzzi tubs, skylights, and fireplaces. You can slip into a plush robe, hit the sauna, and let the stress melt away! Enjoy a quiet and restful night’s sleep and wake refreshed and ready to take on another day!
Even better, we’ll take care of your breakfast each morning of your stay. We create a hearty, multi-course meal with brunch-like fare. The chef’s menu includes elevated comfort food with sweet and savory options, fresh fruit, and baked goods. Start your day enjoying our freshly brewed coffee, available by 9 a.m. We also offer a variety of teas, juices, and even mimosas to celebrate your time together truly. You’re welcome to enjoy our breakfast service in our refined dining room or have it delivered and have breakfast in bed!
We offer a lovely list of other add-on packages to create the most magical stay at our Central Michigan Bed and Breakfast. If you’re here with romance in mind, let us help! With the “Rediscover Romance Package,” we’ll have chilled champagne, truffles from our in-house pastry chef, and a seasonal bouquet of flowers designed by our talented floral designer awaiting your arrival. Or add an in-room or in our spa massage—the best way to up the romance and relax with your partner. Join us in Bay City and start planning your next getaway. Book your lodging today!
