Mark your calendar for Saturday, September 27, when Tahquamenon Falls State Park hosts its annual Harvest Festival at the Lower Falls Campgrounds. Campers and day-use visitors are invited to join a full day of family-friendly fall activities surrounded by the brilliant colors of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
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Harvest Festival Activities
The Tahquamenon Falls Harvest Festival promises a weekend of classic autumn fun:
- Hayrides with Smokey Bear, a favorite for kids and parents alike.
- A camper chili cook-off—bring your best recipe or just enjoy the tasting.
- Pumpkin decorating and campsite decorating contests.
- Archery and other outdoor games.
Pumpkins are limited—one per campsite—so be sure to stop by the Lower Falls Campground office early to pick up your pumpkin on a first-come, first-served basis. All activities take place in the Portage and Hemlock Lower Falls Campgrounds, creating a cozy, festive atmosphere.
Explore the Beauty of Tahquamenon Falls
Stretching across nearly 50,000 acres, Tahquamenon Falls State Park is one of the crown jewels of Michigan state parks. The park features multiple campgrounds, overnight lodging, 35+ miles of hiking trails, and scenic overlooks of both the Upper and Lower Falls.
- The Upper Falls, over 200 feet wide, is among the largest waterfalls in the eastern United States. The river’s amber hue—caused by tannins from nearby swamps—gives the rushing water a striking, foamy appearance.
- Just four miles downstream, the Lower Falls offer a series of smaller cascades around an island. Visitors can cross the Ronald A. Olson Island Bridge or rent a rowboat for a closer look.
The North Country Trail runs 16 miles through the park, connecting the Upper and Lower Falls—perfect for a fall hike among vibrant maples.
Plan Your Visit
- Recreation Passport: A Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks.
- Camping Reservations: Book sites through MIDNRReservations.com or call 1-800-447-2757.
- Hunter Shuttle Service: A fee-based shuttle operates between the Upper and Lower Falls from noon to 8 p.m. daily through Labor Day weekend. For seasonal schedules, call or text 906-291-3422.
- Event Updates: Dates and times may change or events may be canceled due to weather—call the park ahead of your visit to confirm.
Make It a Weekend to Remember
From the roar of the Upper Falls to the cozy fun of the Harvest Festival, Tahquamenon Falls State Park offers a true Michigan Upper Peninsula fall getaway. Whether you’re camping under the stars or driving in for the day, this celebration of autumn is the perfect way to welcome the season.
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