A great spot for hikers and backpackers, Pickney gets you a little more seclusion some other places on this list. There’s 11,000 acres of land to explore, as well as some small lakes for swimming and fishing (though some PFAS warnings have been issued so don’t eat the fish). There’s a fee to rent a campsite, but the rest of the park is free with a Recreation Passport.

There are a couple of beaches at the park for swimming in Kent Lake, and a number of casual, well-tended hiking and walking trails. The farm area where you can interact with animals is pretty popular as well. Entry costs $10 per vehicle.

Detroit’s largest park has two Olympic-sized swimming pools open seven days a week. Admission is $2.

Butzel and a number of other recreation centers—Heilmann, Kemeny, Patton, Williams, Young—all have indoor pools available year round for swimming. Most have a membership or guest fee that comes with access to an aerobics center, but kids can often find a time to get in for free.

One of the more underrated nature locations in Southeast Michigan, Stony Creek is a great place to hike, bike, or relax. It’s also has a couple of beaches where you can take a dip, boat, or fish. Entry costs $10 per vehicle.

By far the best place to swim in the city. It does get a little crowded when the weather’s nice, but that only adds to the pleasant vibe. Bring a beach towel, some refreshments, and maybe a bluetooth speaker, and luxuriate in the views of the downtown skyline. You will need a Michigan Recreation Passport to enter the island (though they rarely check it).

The mile-long shoreline offers a number of places to swim, either at the beach or the Olympic-sized pool. Of course you could also walk or bike along the accessible paths, and enjoy the waters by boating or windsurfing. Entry costs $10 per vehicle, plus an additional $5 for adults to use the pool (children get in for free).

Yes it’s in Canada and it’s a bit of a drive. But if you’re willing to make the trek, it’s more than worth it. There’s several nice beaches, a great lookout point at the … point, and the whole family can get in for CA$15.70 (plus a toll when crossing the border). The wooded, paved path is also great for biking enthusiasts.