A ribbon cutting and community event to mark the renovations at Pontiac Oaks Park was held on July 12, 2026.

• Pontiac Oaks Park Fact Sheet

Upcoming Events

TrailBlazers Hiking Series

Join Oakland County Parks staff for informative, scenic hikes during the TrailBlazers Hiking Series from 6-7 p.m. at Pontiac Oaks Park. This hiking series offers a chance to stretch your legs on a one-hour guided hike covering these topics.

• Sept. 10 - Fly Away Home. Birds, butterflies and bats are set to make their way south. Find out why some species leave while others stay
• Oct. 8 - Fall Color Tour. Enjoy the fall splendor and discover the science behind why leaves change colors

The TrailBlazer Hiking Series is an affordable, enjoyable way to squeeze fitness into your busy schedule by being able to socialize, get in your steps and learn new facts about the natural world all in one exciting hour-long program. Hike with a friend or meet new people on the trails.

Hikers should dress for the weather and bring a water bottle and bug spray.

The series costs $10. Preregistration is required. Call 248-858-0916 or register online.

• Printable Trailblazers Hiking Series Information Card

Register for the Trailblazers Hiking Series

Art in the Park

Don't miss Art in the Park: Nature Connects Us All from 5-7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 at Pontiac Oaks Park. This free drop-in event celebrates the diverse people and communities who live and work in Pontiac. Enjoy a variety of hands-on activities for all ages and abilities, including:

• Interactive art activities
• Participatory mural with Kelly Boyle
• Immersive fishing experience (equipment provided)
• Storytelling by Carol Bacak-Egbo, Oakland County Parks historian
• Instrument Petting Zoo by Accent Pontiac
• Frozen treats/snacks

All ages and abilities are welcome. Machine-assisted translation will be available. For more information, email welcomeoakland@oakgov.com. 

Art in the Park Flyer

About

Pontiac Oaks, formerly known as Hawthorne Park, preserves 122 acres of green space in a lush, beautiful setting filled with mature trees, abundant nature areas and numerous recreational activities. The park features the shorelines of Creger Lake and Upper Silver Lake with water access for kayaking, canoeing and fishing provided through a dock and boat launch. Pontiac Oaks features a playground, pavilion, horseshoes pits and an 18-hole disc golf course. A dedicated picnic area includes tables, grills and trash receptacles. Modern restroom facilities available. Oakland County is investing more than $1.5 million to improve park facilities and has assumed long-term responsibility for park management and maintenance. The City of Pontiac retains ownership of the park property and collaborates with Oakland County Parks regarding the future of the park.

Printable Map

Tick Bite Prevention

• Learn How to Protect Yourself
• Children and Lyme Disease