Known as the most popular state park in Michigan for its abundant natural resources and endless activities, the Ludington State Park offers a vacation within itself.

This 5,300 acre parcel of land north of Ludington offers nearly seven miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, an historic lighthouse, dam, scenic sand dunes, and marshlands. Hikers love the eight marked trails that meander through the park, each with its own unique character. Inside the park you’ll find the Hamlin Lake Beach and the Concession Stand, where you can rent canoes, paddleboats, rowboats, kayaks and aqua cycles.

Enjoy a hike on one of the eight marked trails that cover 18 miles, and take note of the variety of trail markers and information kiosks along the way which provide some fascinating historical and natural facts about the park.

Families especially appreciate the park's Hamlin Lake Beach for its calm waters, sandy shore, playground, picnic shelter, restrooms, and concessions. From here, it's just a short stroll to the Hamlin Lake Dam, which was constructed during the logging era when lumbermen dammed the Big Sable River to make a holding pond for felled trees.

The park is a fisherman's paradise, where anglers will discover an abundance of Hamlin Lake walleye, bass, northern pike, perch, and bluegill. A new boat launch area provides easy access into the lake for boats up to 22 feet, with convenient parking for trailers. During the fall salmon run, when the fish attempt to jump over the dam on their way upstream, spectators and anglers line the Sable River Boardwalk to capture the thrill of this fishing season highlight. A hard surface walkway provides handicapped access across the dam and along both sides of the river.

Directions:
Coming through downtown Ludington, follow Ludington Avenue to the end, and turn right onto N. Lakeshore Drive. Follow this until the fork in the road, and keep left onto M-116. This takes you along Lake Michigan and out to the State Park.


More Ludington Area Parks. . .
Ludington State Park - Located four miles north of Ludington, and is known as "The Queen of the State Parks."
Buttersville Park - Just south of Ludington, offering a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan.
Memorial Tree Park - A nice shaded park in Ludington that overlooks the quiet beauty of Lincoln Lake.
Stearns Park Beach - The most popular beach in Ludington, with access to the North Breakwater Light.
Summit Park - Located on south Lakeshore Drive, with access to Lake Michigan.
Sutton's Landing Park - Just off Old US-31, it features a wooden ramp along the Pere Marquette River.
Waterfront Park - Nestled between the two marinas, featuring a playground, amphitheater and bronzed sculptures.
Victory Township Park - Take the tree-lined road to this quiet park that is right on Upper Hamlin Lake.
Ludington City Park - Three blocks west of the downtown area, this shaded park has picnic tables and the Kiwanis Band Shell.
Copeyon Park - Located on the east side of Pere Marquette Lake, it's a great place for fishing and close to the Charter Boats.
Wilson Hill Park - Fishermen like the boat launch here, with access to Upper Hamlin Lake.