Sleepy Hollow State Park

Tucked into the rolling farmland of Clinton County, Sleepy Hollow State Park offers 2,678 acres of wooded trails, open meadows, and quiet waterways that feel worlds away from the bustle of nearby Lansing. The park’s centerpiece is Lake Ovid, a 410-acre man-made lake that draws anglers chasing bass, bluegill, and channel catfish throughout the season. Its no-wake policy keeps the water calm — perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding without competing with motorboats.

Hikers and mountain bikers share over 16 miles of trails that wind through hardwood forests and along the lake’s irregular shoreline. In winter, those same paths become popular routes for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Birdwatchers will find the park’s wetland areas especially rewarding, with great blue herons, sandhill cranes, and migrating warblers making regular appearances.

The park’s modern campground provides a solid base for overnight stays, with sites spread across shaded loops near the lake. Equestrian campers get their own dedicated area with direct trail access — a nice touch for riders exploring the countryside.

Late spring through early fall is the sweet spot for visiting. June brings wildflower blooms along the meadow trails, while September offers warm days, cool nights, and far fewer crowds. The fall foliage here is quietly spectacular, with sugar maples and oaks lighting up the hillsides.

Sleepy Hollow rewards visitors who slow down. Bring a fishing rod, a good book, and nowhere else to be.

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