Barn Course Field Trial Grounds

For dog owners in Highland Township and across Michigan, especially those with energetic companions or an interest in canine training, Barn Course Field Trial Grounds offers a distinctive and expansive outdoor experience. Located within the vast Highland Recreation Area, this site is unlike typical urban dog parks, providing a more rugged and natural environment for dogs to explore and hone their skills.

Barn Course Field Trial Grounds is primarily recognized as a designated area for the training of hunting dogs and for field trials. This means it offers extensive open spaces, varied terrain, and "great cover" that are ideal for working with dogs in a purposeful manner. However, its expansive nature also makes it a compelling destination for general recreation, allowing dogs to run freely and experience a different kind of outdoor adventure.

User reviews highlight the vastness of the area, noting "lots of space" for dogs to run. While some visitors mention the presence of "huntsmen with their smart dogs and live ammunition," it's crucial for general users to be aware of the primary activities conducted here. The terrain is also conducive to exploration, with "pretty cool trails" for leisurely walks. This unique blend of dedicated training grounds and natural open space makes Barn Course Field Trial Grounds a distinct option for Michigan dog owners seeking more than just a fenced-in play area. It's a place where dogs can truly stretch their legs and engage with a more wild environment.

Barn Course Field Trial Grounds is situated on Cooley Lake Rd, Highland Township, MI 48356, USA. This location places it within the sprawling Highland Recreation Area, a significant state park in Oakland County, Michigan. Being part of a state park means the grounds benefit from extensive natural landscapes and are generally well-maintained within that context.

Access to the Highland Recreation Area, and by extension the Barn Course Field Trial Grounds, typically requires a Michigan Recreation Passport. This annual pass provides access to all Michigan state parks and recreation areas, offering excellent value for frequent visitors. Daily passes are also available for those making a single visit. The Recreation Passport can be purchased at the time of vehicle registration renewal or at park entrances.

The grounds are generally open during daylight hours, aligning with the operational hours of the Highland Recreation Area. Visitors should check the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website for any specific seasonal closures or variations. Parking is usually available near designated access points, though due to the expansive nature of field trial grounds, parking might be more rustic than at a typical city dog park. The address on Cooley Lake Road provides a clear point of reference for navigation to this unique canine recreation area in Highland Township.

Barn Course Field Trial Grounds, while not a conventional "dog park" with specific amenities like agility equipment or water fountains, offers a unique set of "services" inherent to its nature as field trial grounds:

• Expansive Open Fields and Natural Cover: The primary offering is vast open land with varied natural cover, ideal for dogs to run freely, explore, and engage in scent work. Reviewers specifically mention "lots of space" and "great cover to work with," indicating terrain suitable for active dogs.
• Training Grounds for Hunting Dogs: This is a designated area for year-round training of hunting dogs. While open to public use for general recreation, its primary function supports the development and practice of field trial skills, including retrieving and pointing.
• Trails for Exploration: The grounds feature "pretty cool trails" that allow for walks and exploration. This provides a different experience than an open field, offering sensory enrichment for dogs as they navigate varied terrain and scents.
• Natural Environment: Visitors can expect a natural, largely undeveloped setting. This provides an opportunity for dogs to connect with nature, engage in natural behaviors, and experience different scents and sounds than in a manicured park.
• Potential for Small Game Hunting: Reviews indicate that the area is also "great for small game hunting," and there might be "occasional left over birds from trials." This points to a natural ecosystem that supports wildlife, providing a more authentic outdoor experience.
• Public Access (with Recreation Passport): While primarily for training, the grounds are accessible to the public with a Michigan Recreation Passport, allowing general dog owners to utilize this unique space for exercise and off-leash freedom.

Due to its nature as field trial grounds, visitors should come prepared with their own water for dogs, waste bags, and any other necessities, as specific dog park amenities might not be readily available.

Barn Course Field Trial Grounds offers several distinctive features and highlights that set it apart from typical dog parks in Michigan:

• Vast, Unfenced Open Space: Unlike most enclosed dog parks, this location provides truly expansive open land. This allows for unrestricted running and training over long distances, which is ideal for high-energy dogs, especially those accustomed to larger environments.
• Diverse Natural Terrain: The grounds feature a mix of open fields, wooded areas, and "great cover," providing varied landscapes for dogs to explore. This natural diversity offers more sensory stimulation and challenging environments than a flat, grassy park.
• Authentic Field Trial Environment: For those interested in canine sports or working breeds, the grounds offer an authentic setting for training, with remnants of bird trials ("occasional left over birds") and a recognized environment for developing field skills.
• Peaceful and Less Crowded (Potentially): Depending on the timing, the sheer size of the area means it can feel less crowded than smaller, more popular dog parks, offering a more serene experience for dogs and owners seeking solitude.
• Integration with Highland Recreation Area: Being part of a larger state park provides access to extensive natural resources. While the dog-specific areas are for off-leash use, the overall park offers additional opportunities for hiking, nature observation, and enjoying Michigan's outdoors (dogs on leash in other park areas).
• Unique for Mushroom Foraging: One review specifically mentions "search for mushrooms," highlighting the natural, foraging opportunities within the area, appealing to those who enjoy combining a dog walk with nature exploration.

It is important to acknowledge that due to its dual purpose as training grounds, there might be ongoing activities involving "huntsmen with their smart dogs and live ammunition." General users should exercise caution, be aware of their surroundings, and ensure their dogs have excellent recall to navigate this dynamic environment safely.

Barn Course Field Trial Grounds, as a component of the Michigan state park system, does not typically run commercial "promotions" or "special offers." Its primary "offer" is the access it provides to a unique, expansive natural environment for dogs.

• Michigan Recreation Passport Value: The most significant "promotion" is the Michigan Recreation Passport itself. For a relatively low annual fee (or a daily fee), this passport provides year-round access not only to Barn Course Field Trial Grounds but also to all other Michigan state parks and recreation areas. This offers tremendous value for Michigan residents who enjoy outdoor activities with their dogs.
• Seasonal Programs and Events: The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or local clubs that utilize the field trial grounds might occasionally host public events, workshops, or demonstrations related to dog training, field trials, or even general outdoor recreation within the Highland Recreation Area. These events would be advertised through the DNR website, park newsletters, or local sporting dog club announcements.
• Hunter Education or Dog Training Clinics: Given its primary use, there might be opportunities for specific dog training clinics or workshops (e.g., bird dog training, obedience in the field) offered by external organizations that utilize the grounds. These would typically involve separate fees and registration through the organizing clubs.

For local dog owners, the value lies in the consistent availability of a large, natural space for their dogs, which is supported by the Recreation Passport system. Keeping an eye on the Michigan DNR website or local sporting dog club calendars would be the best way to learn about any unique opportunities at these grounds.

For information regarding Barn Course Field Trial Grounds, as it is part of the Highland Recreation Area, the best point of contact is the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which manages state parks.

Phone: (248) 858-0906 (This is a general contact number for Oakland County Parks and Recreation, which can often direct calls regarding state park facilities within their county. For Highland Recreation Area specifically, the main number might be slightly different.)

Mobile Phone: +1 248-858-0906 (Same as above)

Address: Cooley Lake Rd, Highland Township, MI 48356, USA (This identifies the general location of the field trial grounds within the larger Highland Recreation Area.)

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on the Highland Recreation Area, including its various sections, specific rules for dog use (especially concerning off-leash areas and hunting activities), and Recreation Passport details, it is highly recommended to visit the official Michigan DNR website (Michigan.gov/DNR) and search for "Highland Recreation Area." They will have detailed maps, hours of operation, and contact information for the park's specific management office.

For residents of Highland Township and other communities across Michigan, Barn Course Field Trial Grounds offers a highly suitable and distinctive option for dog recreation, especially for those seeking a more natural and expansive environment than typical urban dog parks. Its suitability for locals stems from its unique characteristics and the specific opportunities it provides for canine engagement.

Firstly, the sheer scale of the grounds provides unparalleled space for dogs to run, explore, and exercise. Unlike smaller, often crowded, fenced dog parks, this area allows dogs to truly stretch their legs and satisfy their instinct to range over vast distances. This is particularly beneficial for high-energy breeds, sporting dogs, or any canine that thrives in an open, natural setting. The diverse terrain, including "great cover" and "cool trails," also offers rich sensory experiences and mental stimulation that can keep dogs engaged and happy.

Secondly, while it is a field trial ground primarily used for training hunting dogs, its public accessibility with a Michigan Recreation Passport makes it a valuable resource for general dog owners. This means locals can utilize a professionally managed state resource for off-leash activity that might otherwise be unavailable in more urbanized areas. It presents a unique opportunity to expose dogs to a more rustic, less manicured environment, preparing them for other outdoor adventures across Michigan.

Lastly, for owners who prioritize active training or simply enjoy a more rugged outdoor experience with their dog, the grounds provide an authentic setting. It's a place where you might encounter other serious dog enthusiasts, fostering a community around shared interests in canine sports and outdoor pursuits. While awareness of hunting activities is essential, for those prepared for such an environment, it offers a deep connection to Michigan's natural landscape and provides an enriching experience for their canine companions, making it a truly valuable and unique local amenity.