Rich in natural resources with a balance of urban and rural environments, Oakland County is a beautiful backdrop for modern lifestyle conveniences and home to a thriving economy. A community rich in diversity, history and culture, Oakland County provides state-of-the-art programs and services that bring government together with citizens, businesses and educational communities to create the model community of the future.

Oakland County's History & Heritage Long before the automotive industry became rooted in Oakland County, enterprising professionals and businesspeople had discovered the natural resources and inherent potential in what was to become Oakland County.

Prior to the first permanent settlers in the area, Native American tribes such as Ojibwa, Chippewa, Ottawa and Potawatomi roamed the Saginaw Trail and camped at Saginaw Plains, Apple Island and other beautiful spots in the region.

In fact, many of Oakland County's main transportation arteries had their genesis as Native American trails: the Saginaw Trail (now Woodward Avenue), the Shiawassee Trail (which followed the current Orchard Lake Road) and Grand River Trail. Quality Lifestyle Lakes, parks, shopping, sports, cultural activities, education, medical care, and neighborhoods where you can walk--all this adds up to livable communities where you can raise your family, build a home, grow your business or find many ways to spend your leisure time. Whether it's fishing, golfing, shopping, volunteering or just enjoying a sunset...you're sure to find what you need in Oakland County.

We are proud of the vast recreational offerings in Oakland County, and whether you're an avid outdoor enthusiast or a weekend duffer, you'll find fun in the sun and snow in all four seasons.

Here are some highlights:

• More than 89,000 acres of park offer year round outdoor recreation.
• Three major downhill ski sites in the County.
• More natural lakes in the county than any other County in the state: Oakland County contains 1468 lakes and the headwaters of five major rivers: the Clinton, Huron, Rouge, Shiawassee and Flint rivers.
• 26 private and 61 public golf courses with over 1500 golf holes available: Included among the County's elite clubs is the Oakland Hills Country Club, home to the 1996 PGA U.S. Open, and Indianwood Country Club, home to the 1994 LPGA U.S. Open. The 2004 Ryder Cup will be played at Oakland Hills Country Club.
• A parks system with eight County parks open year-round, three major regional parks and four major state recreation areas.
• Two County-owned, barrier-free water parks with wave pools and body flume waterslides.