Galien River County Park - New Buffalo,
Galien River County Park: A Pet-Friendly Hiking Destination in New Buffalo, MI
Galien River County Park is a scenic gem in New Buffalo, perfect for dog owners seeking dog-friendly hiking and nature trails. The park is known for its exceptionally well-maintained dirt, gravel, and boardwalk trails, inviting locals and visitors alike to explore pet-friendly spaces close to home. With its wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking, the park is inclusive for guests of all mobility levels.
Families will love the easy, shaded trails and birdwatching opportunities, while kids can enjoy a nearby playground and pavilion. While it isn’t a classic fenced dog park, Galien River County Park stands out as a tranquil spot for leashed walks and pet-friendly outdoor activities. Its observation deck over the wetlands provides stunning views, especially in fall, making it a must-visit destination for nature-loving dog owners in southwest Michigan.
Galien River County Park FAQ
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, there are public restrooms available in the park area.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, the entrance, parking, and most trails are wheelchair accessible.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, there is a playground and pavilion across the street from the main park area.
- Where is the best place to park? The park has free parking right off the main road, with about 20 spots available. An additional parking area is available across the street with a larger lot.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park features multiple well-maintained nature and boardwalk trails.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Many areas of the trails and boardwalks are shaded by trees, and a pavilion is available across the street.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, visitors note that the park and its trails are exceptionally well kept.
Reviews
Exceptionally well kept trails, both dirt and gravel. The boardwalk and canopy walk are very cool. Trails are shorter, good for kids and has a fishing spot. Lots of birds.
I visited in Fall, and the views and smells were pretty spectacular. I did notice the park looks intimidating from looking at Google Maps as to the size of the park, which to me looked huge. It’s actually very accessible with a level walk to the observation deck. I don’t recommend that’s if heights aren’t your thing, there’s a level walk back to the parking lot along the ridge. It’s very short and easy.
Access to the wetlands below are fron stairs located on the observation deck or a very easy ramped walk that’s nearly accessible to all levels of mobility. The stairs and wooden walkways become slick when wet and slicker with leaves.
I do not recommend the stairs under these conditions or the wooden walkways if you question your own mobility and balance abilities
I can tell this place would be beautiful if I hadn’t gone when it was so cold and windy. The platform over the marsh does shift a little with the wind just FYI, kind of spooked us when we first felt it. There’s not much parking, but there’s the park just across the street with a bigger lot and bathrooms as well as a pavilion and playground.
This park offers free parking with about 20 spots available. Parking & trails are just right off the main road. Most of the area is handicapped accessible. We chose to do the board walk trail through the tree tops. The majority of the trail is shaded & offers a stunning view of the river. There are plenty of birds to see & hear. We even got to see a few chipmunks.
Beautiful place. Great for people who want a good hike but have physical limitations. The over look decks were great for bird watching. The trials were nice and short for anyone who gets winded quickly.