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Michigan
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Michigan State Parks

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Michigan
Upper Peninsula Region
J W Wells State Park
J W Wells State Park © Christy Zettel
J W Wells State Park Campfire Stories © Susan Williams
A favorite part of camping is gathering around the campfire to share stories.
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J W WELLS STATE PARK
J W WELLS STATE PARK
N 7670 Highway M-35
Cedar River, Michigan   49887

Phone: 906-863-9747
Reservations: 800-447-2757
Wells State Park is located on Green Bay about 30 miles south of Escanaba. Its 678 acres include a three-mile shoreline with beautiful sandy beach for swimming, a large picnic area, a modern campground and rustic cabins that are available to rent year round. The park is open year round, even when the campground is closed, providing opportunities for winter recreation such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing.
History of the Area
The park, established in 1925, was donated to the State of Michigan by the children of John Walter Wells, a pioneer lumberman in the area. In addition to owning several lumber companies and sawmills, he served a mayor of Menominee for three terms beginning in 1893. Many of the park's buildings, landscaping and water and sewage systems were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and 1940s. The park is open year round, even when the campground is closed, providing opportunities for winter recreation such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing
Passes
The Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. Details and information on how to obtain your Michigan Recreation Passport can be found by visiting the MICHIGAN RECREATION PASSPORT web page.
Camping
J. W. Wells-Modern(800) 447-2757 150 site(s)Campsites with 50 amp Service, Electrical Service, Modern Restrooms

J. W. Wells-Rustic Cabins(800) 447-2757 0 site(s)Vault Toilet

J.W. Wells-Bay Stone Lodge(906) 863-9747 1 site(s)Electrical Service
Swimming
1. J W Wells State Park offers a sandy beach for swimming on the shores of Green Bay.
2. Lifeguards are not provided, so swim at your own risk.
3. Swimming is allowed during park hours from 8 am to 10 pm daily.
4. The water can be chilly due to Lake Michigan's cold currents; consider wearing a wetsuit early in the season.
5. There are no designated swimming areas, allowing visitors freedom when choosing where they want to swim within the bay area.

Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There is a boat launch available, providing easy access to Green Bay waters where you can enjoy fishing or leisurely sailing. Canoeing and kayaking are also popular activities in the area due to its scenic shoreline views.
Fishing
Anglers can enjoy fishing in Green Bay for species like walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass and various panfish. The park's three-mile shoreline offers ample space to cast a line. Fishing equipment rentals are available on-site.


Location
J W Wells State Park is located near Menominee

Picnicking
A large picnic area is within walking distance to the campground and includes two picnic shelters, horseshoe courts, picnic tables, charcoal grills and a large playground. Two volleyball courts and a sandy beach complete the day-use areas of the park.
Trails
Six miles of hiking trails also offer three rustic trailside shelters for places to rest on the hike.

Wells-Cedar River Trail Trail Length: 7.00 (Miles)Cross Country Ski, Hiking
Bicycling
While exploring the park, one can enjoy a 3-mile paved bike path that offers scenic views of Lake Michigan.

Bikers should be aware that this trail is shared with pedestrians and rollerbladers.

Off-road biking isn't permitted in order to protect natural habitats within the area.

Remember, helmets are strongly recommended for safety while riding on any trails or paths here.

Please note: Biking after dark requires lights as per state law regulations.

For those without bikes, rentals may not always be available at local facilities nearby so plan accordingly.

Lastly, respect all posted signs regarding speed limits and restricted areas when cycling through the park.
Cross-country Skiing
In winter the seven miles of hiking trails with three rustic trailside shelters are open for cross country skiing. Trails are not groomed.
Birding
The park offers birdwatching opportunities with over 200 species recorded, including warblers and waterfowl. Bird checklists are available.
Area Attractions
A modern boat ramp and charter fishing services are available in nearby Cedar River. The area around the park offers great fishing for smallmouth bass, pike, walleye, panfish, trout and salmon. Deer are plentiful in Menominee County and deer hunters will find plenty of public land for hunting large and small game in the surrounding areas.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
September 27 Amazing Park by SusanRadka
park review stars; one to five I was a camp counselor at the park in 1974. Celebrated my 16th birthday there that summer. Im so thrilled to return as an adult and make new memories with my children/grandkids
November 3 by Mike
park review stars; one to five Great staff. Lost my Samsung tablet there. Staff returned it via mail. Staff was courteous and honest. Park was very pleasant. We will camp there again.
March 24
park review stars; one to five One of the best parks and we have been to most of them.
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Directions
30 miles south of Escanaba, or 25 miles north of Menominee on M-35: 1 mile South of County Rd. G-12 and Cedar River.

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Michigan
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Michigan State Parks

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