6 Things to Do at the Newly Renovated Ludington State Park
Ludington State Park is one of the most beautiful, revered nature preserves in Pure Michigan and is well known for its sold-out camping seasons. Anyone hoping to make a camping reservation(goes to new website) should plan to do it as early as possible, up to 6 months in advance.
If you don’t plan to camp, however, there are other ways to enjoy the park when you visit this lakeshore town. These recreational activities are family-friendly and low-cost* ways to enjoy the outdoors this travel season.
Dip Your Toes in the Sand
NEW: With a widened entrance to the beach parking lot and walkways on each side for pedestrian safety, the Lake Michigan Beach House (just inside the park’s gate) is a popular stop for wildlife programming. Visitors can also enjoy a beautifully maintained beach on Lake Michigan, where you can build a sandcastle, swim in fresh water, and soak in the sun. This is what summer vacations are made of!
The beach parking lot now has nearly 75 new spaces to find a spot to park during your time there easily. There’s also a dog beach that extends from the beach house to the Big Sable River.
Want to swim in Hamlin Lake? Follow the newly paved road to the farthest point where the parking lot has also been repaved. You’ll find a small beach with boat rentals, a playground, and a bathhouse.
Check out the Trails
With paved paths and dirt roads, Ludington State Park is a favorite destination for hikers and bikers. Pathways run throughout the park and along the Big Sable River between Hamlin Lake and the Lake Michigan beach area — and visitors might even spot some wildlife along the way. The Lost Lake – Island Trail loop, Skyline Trail, and a 1.8-mile gravel road to Big Sable Lighthouse are popular among hikers.
NEW: The main, paved bicycle path now leads to the Lake Michigan beach and has a crosswalk, allowing for a seamless transition to enjoying the waterfront. View trail map
The park has also extended the bike path and sidewalks through the Hamlin day-use area to allow better connectivity between the campgrounds, Hamlin Beach and Island Trail.
Climb the lighthouse
A visit to the Big Sable Lighthouse should be on your bucket list! This 1867 black-and-white tower offers epic views from 100 feet above ground level. Climb the tower to see the Ludington Dunes Ecosystem, which has the largest area of freshwater interdunal ponds in the world.
Visitors are also welcome to explore the lighthouse grounds, tour the original keeper’s quarters converted into a gift shop, or stroll along the dunes. During July, the lighthouse is open 7 days a week. Bus days are set for July 12, July 24, August 2, August 14 and August 30 when you can catch a ride to the site. View fees(goes to new website)
NEW: Drivers will notice enhanced traffic and pedestrian flow at the park’s entrance with the addition of dedicated left- and right-turn lanes.
Cast a line
Ludington State Park is positioned between Hamlin Lake, Big Sable River and Lake Michigan, so it’s easy to see why anglers would bring their fishing equipment to the park. Fishing docks are located west of the Hamlin Dam on both sides of the river, so camping and fishing often go hand in hand.
Paddle a kayak, canoe or paddleboard
Rentals are offered inside the state park at Hamlin Lake Beach. Explore the 4-mile canoe trail along the west shore of Hamlin Lake or float the Big Sable River to the outlet where it meets Lake Michigan. A universal kayak launch can be accessed inside the park on Hamlin Lake, and it is the perfect way to launch a beautiful afternoon. (Learn more about the park’s accessibility here)
Attend a concert
Music and adventure programming happens every summer, thanks to a volunteer group, Friends of Ludington State Park(goes to new website). A full lineup of concerts will be held at the Lake Michigan beach house and amphitheater. Watch for series information at pureludington.com/events.
Share your recreational photos with us using #PureLudington on your social channels.
*Park entry requires a $19 Michigan Recreation Passport on your vehicle.