Connor Bayou (Ottawa County Parks) Offers Plentiful Outdoor Recreation Opportunities
Like many of the parks in the Ottawa County Parks system, Connor Bayou in Grand Haven is located near a body of water (the Grand River) and offers great opportunities for outdoor recreation. This 142 acre park has hiking trails and boardwalks, a fishing dock, a rentable woodland cabin, a kayak launch on the river, and picnic areas. We had a chance to check out this great park during a brief break in the winter weather in December, and we can’t wait to get back here in the spring and summer to try some kayaking on the Grand River and see what the trails look like with more plants and more wildlife!
From the day use parking area trails head off in multiple directions. The riverfront trail and boardwalk (not accessible at times of high water) runs east for about a mile, while another loop heads west and loops through the woods for about a mile. Part of the Idema Explorers Trail heads southeast from the parking area as well – this wide, paved trail is perfect for walking or bicycling and will eventually have an entire route from Grand Haven to Kent County.
There are some great spots to view wildlife along the trails and several viewing platforms along the river. Keep your eyes peeled along the river for bald eagles, hawks and more! The mix of wetland and mature forest also offers chances to see geese, swans, herons, egrets, woodpeckers, and many other birds.
Connor Bayou has a cabin that can be rented out for special events. It has indoor seating room for 50 people and also has a kitchen and refrigerator. Find out more about renting this authentic log home that has been renovated for group use at https://www.miottawa.org/parks/connor_bayou.htm.
This wonderful park is just a 15 minute drive from downtown Grand Haven or a 10 minute drive from the I-96 exit for M-104/Spring Lake. Consider a visit to Connor Bayou the next time your travels take you to the lakeshore near Grand Haven!
