Fossil at Rockport Recreation Area - Alpena
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Go on a Fossil Hunting Expedition at Rockport Recreation Area

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Rockport Recreation Area is nestled along the shores of Lake Huron in the scenic Alpena area. While this is a relatively new state park, the natural beauty and history that it offers have quickly made it one of my favorites to explore with my children. It was officially designated as a state recreation area in 2012, making it Michigan’s 100th state park.

Thank you to Visit Alpena for partnering with Awesome Mitten to share this unique fossil hunting opportunity in Northeast Lower Michigan.

Rockport Recreation Area - Alpena
Rockport Recreation Area pier | photo by Amanda Shaffer

A New Park with Fascinating History

Many years ago, the area was a bustling limestone quarry. The limestone extracted here was shipped via the docks along Lake Huron, and you’ll find the remnants in the crystal-clear waters. 

While hunting for fossils along the shoreline area, you can see the pier which once harbored ships into Rockport’s deep water port. It is not advised to climb or walk this pier, as it is eroding into the lake. However, you can view the gorgeous sunrises over Lake Huron from the pebble beach or from the park above.

The quarry remained operational until the mid-1950s, leaving behind a landscape marked by rugged cliffs and expansive pits. You’ll be able to see a massive pile of limestone that looks like it was ready for a shipment ready to be climbed. This blend of industrial heritage and natural restoration makes Rockport Recreation Area one of my favorite state parks. 

While there is so much to do at Rockport Recreation Area, for our visit, we were determined to find fossils, and fossils are what we found!

Rockport Recreation Area - Alpena
Clear waters at Rockport Recreation Area | photo by Amanda Shaffer

Preparing for Our Visit to Rockport Recreation Area

To prepare us for our park adventure, I did my online research. First, I printed the Rockport Adventure Guide. Here, I found a trail map and great information about what to expect on our visit. Then, I visited my favorite trail sites to get acquainted with the area. 

TIP: The Fossil Park at Besser Museum is a great place to prep for a fossil hunt at Rockport – where you can learn about the types of fossils found in Northeast Lower Michigan and even practice digging for fossils.

Fossil at Rockport Recreation Area - Alpena
Fossil find at Rockport Recreation Area | photo by Amanda Shaffer

Great Finds are Hard to Miss

The abandoned quarry is the most popular spot to find fossils at Rockport. With my water-loving kids, I first wanted to try the lakeshore, and we were not disappointed. Within about a half hour of walking the shoreline, both my children had filled the bags they had brought for collecting. 

Fossil at Rockport Recreation Area - Alpena
Fossil find at Rockport Recreation Area | photo by Amanda Shaffer

Tips for Visiting the Rockport Recreation Area

  • Bring bug spray and sunscreen. 
  • Print off trail maps. Cell service at the park is spotty at best. 
  • Wear sturdy shoes.
  • Bring a bag or bucket for your finds. 
  • Remember that the collection of rocks, minerals, and fossils is limited to 25 lb per year. 
Rockport Recreation Area quarry - Alpena
Rockport Recreation Area quarry | photo by Amanda Shaffer

Explore More of Rockport Recreation Area

  • Hike over 20 miles of trails.
  • Check out the Bat Hibernaculum.
  • Find the park’s sinkholes.
  • Stargaze in this dark sky park preserve.
  • Go fishing on the shores of Lake Huron.
  • Visit Besser Natural Area & Village of Bell.
Rockport Recreation Area - Alpena
Fossil hunting at Rockport Recreation Area | photo by Amanda Shaffer

Rugged Natural Beauty

While the park is still quite undeveloped, I believe that is why it has climbed to the top of my favorite Michigan State Parks. The history and ruggedness marry well and make for quite the adventure.

Make the Most of Your Visit to the Alpena Area

In addition to Rockport Recreation Area, the Alpena area is full of outdoor adventures, making it a nature paradise in Northeast Lower Michigan.

This unique fossil hunting expedition rounds out a full weekend itinerary focused on finding beauty, tranquility & wonder in Alpena!

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