Highly Recommended

Palms Book State Park (Kitch-iti-kipi)

Palms Book State Park is home to Kitch-iti-kipi, Michigan’s largest freshwater spring. The crystal-clear spring allows visitors to see deep into its turquoise waters, where fish and ancient tree trunks are visible below the surface.

About the experience

Visiting Kitch-iti-kipi is like stepping into a serene, magical world where nature’s beauty is on full display. Here’s why it feels like such a hidden gem:

  • Crystal-Clear Water: The water of Kitch-iti-kipi, Michigan’s largest freshwater spring, is so clear and turquoise that you can see all the way to the sandy floor, over 40 feet below. Ancient logs and graceful fish are visible through the pristine water, creating an almost otherworldly scene.
  • Viewing Raft: The slow, manual raft ride across the spring allows visitors to look down into the depths through a glass panel, revealing the details of the spring’s floor, the fish, and the bubbling up of water from underground. The raft moves at a gentle pace, giving you time to truly take in the beauty around and below you.
  • Peaceful Surroundings: The quiet and calm atmosphere, surrounded by lush trees and the sounds of nature, makes the experience almost magical. The spring is nestled in a forest, creating a peaceful and serene escape from everyday life.
  • Unique Connection to Nature: There’s something special about being on the raft, looking down into such clear, pure water, and knowing you’re connected to an ancient natural wonder. The entire experience feels like a moment to reflect and connect with the natural world in a truly unique way.

Kitch-iti-kipi offers a serene and memorable experience for anyone looking to enjoy Michigan’s natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Interactive Map

Schedule

Open year-round, hours vary

Entrance Fee

$9
A Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry: $9 per day for non-residents. The park features Michigan's largest freshwater spring, accessible via a self-operated raft.
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