Galien River County Park
Explore wetlands via a unique canopy walkway and a 60-foot overlook tower for stunning river and marsh views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak colors & fewer crowds
Galien River County Park
Best Time
Peak colors & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore wetlands via a unique canopy walkway and a 60-foot overlook tower for stunning river and marsh views.
"A short walk to the viewing tower is so rewarding, bring your binoculars."
Binoculars for Birding
Bring binoculars to spot the abundant birdlife and wildlife in the marsh and river areas . :bird:
Check the Wind
The overlook tower can sway slightly in strong winds, which might startle some visitors . :windblowingface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Canopy Walkway
Boardwalk
Stroll through the treetops on a 300-foot canopy walkway, offering a unique perspective of the marsh and river.
Marsh Overlook Tower
End of Canopy Walkway
Ascend a 60-foot tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding wetlands and river.
River Viewing Platform
End of Boardwalk
A peaceful spot right on the river, perfect for birdwatching or a quiet moment of reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Accessibility & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Binoculars for Birding
Bring binoculars to spot the abundant birdlife and wildlife in the marsh and river areas. :bird:
Check the Wind
The overlook tower can sway slightly in strong winds, which might startle some visitors. :windblowingface:
Accessible Trails
The boardwalk and overlook decks are largely handicapped accessible, making it great for all ages and abilities. :wheelchair:
Combine with Local Fun
Pair your park visit with a stop at Ghost Isle Brewery or explore downtown New Buffalo for a perfect day trip. :beer:
Tips
from all over the internet
Binoculars for Birding
Bring binoculars to spot the abundant birdlife and wildlife in the marsh and river areas. :bird:
Check the Wind
The overlook tower can sway slightly in strong winds, which might startle some visitors. :windblowingface:
Accessible Trails
The boardwalk and overlook decks are largely handicapped accessible, making it great for all ages and abilities. :wheelchair:
Combine with Local Fun
Pair your park visit with a stop at Ghost Isle Brewery or explore downtown New Buffalo for a perfect day trip. :beer:
Free Parking Available
Parking is free, but the main lot is small. Overflow parking with restrooms and a playground is across the street. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Galien River County Park for its beautiful natural scenery, accessible boardwalk, and rewarding overlook tower. It's a peaceful spot for a short nature walk, birdwatching, and enjoying scenic views. Some mention the tower can sway in the wind and parking can be limited during peak times.
"Pretty little place. A short walk to the viewing tower is so rewarding, bring your binoculars. The boardwalk is pretty easy with a platform at the end right on the river. The parking lot is pretty big."
Kaja SWIEB
"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."
Terra Fulmer
"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."
Kayla Fehribach
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Galien River County Park is located at 17424 Red Arrow Hwy, New Buffalo, MI 49117. It's easily accessible by car, just off the main road. Many visitors find it a great nature stop when visiting New Buffalo.
Yes, there is free parking available. The main lot has about 20 spots. If it's full, there's an overflow lot across the street that also has bathrooms and a pavilion.
Public transport options are limited in this area. It's best to visit by car. If you're looking for a day trip from a nearby city, consider driving.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Galien River County Park is completely free, including parking.
The park is generally open from dawn to dusk. It's a nature park, so there are no strict indoor operating hours, but it's best to visit during daylight for safety and enjoyment.
No advance booking is required as there is no admission fee. You can visit anytime during park hours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park's main attractions are its unique canopy walkway that takes you through the treetops and a 60-foot overlook tower offering panoramic views of the marsh and river.
Yes, the boardwalk and overlook decks are designed to be largely handicapped accessible, making it a great option for visitors with mobility challenges.+1
The park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. You can spot various bird species, chipmunks, and other small wildlife in the wetland habitats.
Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours exploring the boardwalk, canopy walkway, and overlook tower. It's a perfect spot for a short, scenic stroll.
Yes, there is a river viewing and fishing platform accessible from the boardwalk, making it a good spot for casual fishing.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food concessions within the park itself. However, the nearby town of New Buffalo offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and breweries.
New Buffalo has several dining options. For a casual bite or a drink, consider Ghost Isle Brewery, which is often paired with a park visit for sunset.
📸 📸 Photography
The overlook tower provides stunning panoramic shots of the marsh and river.
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos, especially from the overlook tower.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check with local park authorities or the Berrien County Parks department for current rules regarding drone operation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Accessible Travelers
📸 Nature Photographers
+1 Capture the winding river, diverse birdlife, and the changing colors of the seasons. Golden hour, particularly around sunset, provides dramatic lighting for landscape and wildlife shots.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Boardwalk and Tower
At the end of the canopy walkway, you'll find the impressive 60-foot overlook tower. This structure provides a bird's-eye view of the entire park, the winding Galien River, and the surrounding natural landscape.
+1 It's a popular spot for photography and for simply taking in the expansive scenery. Be aware that the tower can sway slightly in windy conditions, which some visitors have noted.Wildlife and Nature Observation
During the fall, the park transforms into a vibrant display of autumn colors, making it a popular destination for scenic walks.
The boardwalk and tower offer excellent vantage points to appreciate the seasonal changes. Even in other seasons, the natural beauty of the Galien River and its surrounding marshland provides a tranquil escape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit