Photo by Craig Sterken Photography
Ludington has so much to offer its residents and visitors, but our most popular draw is the 5,300 acres that lie just north of town, known as the Ludington State Park. This wonderful area of land is not just for camping–it’s a haven for hikers, fishermen, bikers, or anyone who loves what nature has to offer. Here you’ll discover sand dunes with spectacular views, hardwood forests, marshlands, and nearly seven miles of Lake Michigan shoreline.
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.
Families appreciate the park’s Hamlin Lake Beach for its calm waters, sandy shore, playground, picnic shelter, restrooms, and concessions. Or head over to the Lake Michigan side where you’ll find the Beach House.
Within the Ludington State Park, you will find the Big Sable Point Lighthouse – a favorite hiking destination for visitors. The black-and-white striped, 112 foot lighthouse at the Ludington State Park stands proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan.
The Ludington State Park is a fisherman’s paradise, where anglers will discover an abundance of Hamlin Lake walleye, bass, northern pike, perch, and bluegill.
After a busy day enjoying all the park’s activities, head over to the Amphitheater on select nights at 7pm and take in a fun and enjoyable performance. Most are folk music, but some feature animals and even a magic show.
When winter blankets the landscape with a pristine white hush, snow lovers can cross country ski on eight miles of trails- three of which are groomed.
While the Ludington State Park boasts so much in the way of things to do, it is most associated with camping, and the four campgrounds within the park generally fill up by the beginning of spring for the following summer.
Planning a visit to the Ludington area? Have questions about your trip? Here’s where you can find help:
There are activities going on in Ludington to keep everyone happy all year long. Longstanding events- Ludington special.
Along the Lake Michigan shoreline between Ludington and Manistee, you’ll find natural splendor- the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness area.
112-feet of lighthouse awaits you at the Ludington State Park! Take a tour and follow the winding staircase to the top!
Ludington’s North Breakwater Light is the number one lighthouse to see in Michigan! Take a trip along the breakwater path to see it up close!
Hop aboard the Lake Michigan S.S. Badger Carferry! Take the famous cruise across Lake Michigan and experience the Badger and all it has to do!
The Michigan DNR has announced that the Ludington State Park will be closed from September 3rd, 2024 through July 1st, 2025 for renovations. Improvements include parking lot repaving and expansion, plus upgrades to warming shelters and traffic areas.
If this temporary closure interrupts your getaway plans, please look for alternative suggestions in the article.