Family reunions are an opportunity to reconnect with loved ones, spend time with relatives, and help the kids understand their heritage.

A beautiful outdoor setting such as a park offers one of the best host sites for a family reunion. There are plenty of options for Detroit-area families nearby, thanks to Metroparks’ 13 locations.

“After two years of living in a pandemic world, we’re all looking for ways to safely get together and gather again,” said Metroparks Chief of Marketing and Communications Danielle Mauter. “The Metroparks invites visitors to consider one of our locations for their events.”

Each park area is unique, with reservable picnic areas within walking distance of many popular amenities perfect for a family reunion. They include:

• Trails
• Beaches
• Pools
• Playgrounds 
• Basketball and volleyball courts
• Softball fields
• Boat rentals at lakes 

“It’s the perfect post-pandemic way to celebrate,” Mauter said. “You can be outdoors, you have plenty of space to socially distance, and you’re right next to all these amenities.”

Lower Huron Metropark, about a 30-minute drive west of Detroit, also has the Turtle Cove Family Aquatic Center. The center includes a host of fun activities perfect for the kids at the reunion: water slides, a dumping bucket, a lazy river, a zero-depth entry pool, you name it!

Best Metroparks for Family Reunions

All 13 Metroparks locations are excellent for hosting family reunions. Lake St. Clair Metropark is about 27 miles east of Detroit and includes amenities like adventure golf, a beach, hiking trails, a splash pad, a playground, and a nature center—plus sports like pickleball, volleyball, basketball, and golf. 

West of the Detroit, Lower Huron and Willow Metroparks are near the Detroit Metropolitan Airport and have fun options like canoeing, kayaking, nature trails, pools, and sports areas. Lake Erie Metropark, which is about a 34-minute drive south of Detroit, is another option known for its breathtaking views of the Great Lake. 

Booking Your Dates

Summer is prime time for park gatherings at the 13 Metroparks’ locations. People typically reserve picnic areas for events like reunions, birthday parties, and graduation ceremonies every weekend throughout the summer.

That’s why it’s a good idea to reserve your picnic area as soon as possible. Visit the Metroparks website to check availability, specific shelter descriptions and rates, and to make your reservation. You can also find information on permitting requirements for events that include elements like bounce houses or DJs.

“The biggest benefit of reserving ahead of time is that it gives you that peace of mind to know where your space is and to tell guests where to report to,” Mauter said.

You can make reservations year-round, and rates are 1/2 off during the weekdays, even through the summer. Also, keep in mind that all 13 Metroparks require entry fees, so visitors will need to purchase a daily or annual pass.

Setting and Cleaning Up

Once you’ve reserved your picnic shelter, you can focus your attention on the more exciting thing—planning the party! Metroparks staff will mark off your space the day of your reservation, allowing you to set up the party. 

While planning, keep in mind that some shelters have electricity while others don’t and that some are close to restrooms with running water while others are not. Also, note that you can bring beer and wine, but no hard liquor.

After you and your family’s fun has wrapped up, be sure to clean up the same way you would if it was at home.

“Cleaning up is extremely important,” Mauter said. “Not only is it important to not litter, but it’s also important because of staffing issues. Additional cleaning puts a greater strain on our maintenance staff and takes them away from essential duties like restroom cleaning.”

Large Events

Hosting a large event with more than 50 people? Metroparks staff can help. Contact the Metroparks at 810-227-2757 at least four weeks in advance for more information on obtaining a permit and completing the Special Events form. Special permits are also required for events that include things like bounce houses or DJs.

Metroparks also offers space and reservations for events like 5Ks, fundraisers, retreats, corporate off-sites, church picnics, group camping, and weddings.

Learn more about Metroparks’ events offerings here. 

——————–——————–——————–——————–——————–——————–——

One of America’s premier metropolitan park systems, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks have served the people of Southeast Michigan since 1940. Managed by the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority, the Metroparks are made up of 13 properties in Livingston, Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties. Available activities include fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, nature study, biking, golf, winter sports and more. The Metroparks also provide educational resources on science, nature, history and the environment. Learn more at Metroparks.com.