Classic Cross-Country Skiing Program

You've walked the trails at Independence Oaks, now learn to ski on them during the Classic Cross-Country Skiing Program. You'll learn the basics of cross-country skiing during this two-hour class, including information about equipment and gear and tips and tricks to get you moving on classic cross-country skis quickly and easily.

No skis - no worries! The class fee includes skis, poles and boot rental. Don't wait on this opportunity for frosty fun as class sizes are limited to 20 participants. Eight sessions are available:

• 9-11 a.m. Jan. 10
• 1-3 p.m. Jan. 10
• 9-11 a.m. Jan. 24
• 1-3 p.m. Jan. 24
• 9-11 a.m. Feb. 7
• 1-3 p.m. Feb. 7
• 9-11 a.m. Feb. 28
• 1-3 p.m. Feb. 28

Preregistration and payment is required by calling 248-625-2044 Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. or register online anytime. Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express accepted.

Details:

• Price: $35 per person, per class
• Meet at the boathouse in Independence Oaks County Park
• Printable Classic Cross-Country Skiing Flyer

Register Today!

Archery Range

Give archery a shot at Independence Oaks County Park! Archery is a great way to build strength and improve concentration. It boosts hand-eye coordination, enhances upper body strength and increases confidence. There is no charge to use the facility or equipment on site during Open Archery Range hours on Thursdays in season. The Archery Range is currently closed. Please check back in the spring for 2026 opening dates. For more information, call 248-858-0916.

Archery Hunting

Archery hunting for white-tailed deer (with some limitations) is allowed in this park, hunting locations and rules are listed in the individual park archery maps. No parks allow firearm hunting.

Locations where archery hunting is also allowed:

• Addison Oaks-East
• Highland Oaks County Park
• Lyon Oaks County Park
• Orion Oaks County Park
• Rose Oaks County Park

Old-Growth Forest designation 

A portion of Independence Oaks County Park has received national recognition for its  preservation of mature forests with its induction to the Old-Growth Forest Network (OGFN), the only national network of “protected, old-growth, native forests where people of all generations can experience biodiversity and the beauty of nature.”

Independence Oaks County Park is the 24th location recognized in the state of Michigan and joins more than 315 forests recognized nationwide. Read more about the designation at OldGrowthForest.net or view the news release.

About

Independence Oaks is the largest Oakland County Park at 1,286 acres. Wint Nature Center offers interactive exhibits, interpretive programs and Scout Badge Days. Camp Wilderness, a youth group overnight camping area, features platform tents and a modern bathhouse. Recreation amenities include: 12+ miles of natural and paved trails; a swimming beach; archery range; volleyball courts; and boat launch (non-motorized boats). Twin Chimney Shelter provides a sweeping view of 68-acre Crooked Lake and is popular for outdoor wedding ceremonies and receptions. Independence Oaks-North is the only Southeast Michigan park with a Catch and Release Special Designation by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Anglers can portage and launch canoes, kayaks or other non-motorized boats. No vehicular boat launch is provided. Independence Oaks-North is open for archery deer hunting in the fall.

Printable Map

Tick Bite Prevention

• Learn How to Protect Yourself
• Children and Lyme Disease

Additional Information

• Independence Oaks County Park Brochure