Ludington State Park: Michigan

🏞️ Ludington State Park, Michigan — Beaches, Sand Dunes & Lighthouse Adventure! Ludington State Park is a beautiful outdoor destination, offering 7 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, dramatic sand dunes, and a 5,000-acre inland lake perfect for boating, paddling, and fishing. A great place to start your visit is the Michigan Beach House, a historic landmark built in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. From here, a paved multipurpose pathway connects many of the park’s highlights — ideal for exploring by bike or on foot. Hamlin Lake is a gem within the park, offering boating, kayaking, fishing, and its own calm swimming beach — perfect when Lake Michigan is too rough. The lake includes a 4-mile canoe trail with three portages, and flows into the Sable River, which runs about a mile before reaching Lake Michigan. You’ll need to portage around the dam if you continue your paddle downstream. The river is also popular for tubing, with multiple access points along the route. Ludington State Park features 21 miles of scenic trails, including the Lost Lake Trail (1.5 miles through marshes, dunes, and woods) and the Skyline Trail, a short but rewarding half-mile climb with panoramic views over the tree canopy and dunes. Don’t miss the Big Sable Point Lighthouse, standing 112 feet tall and built in 1867. It’s about a 2-mile hike or bike ride up the beach, and a shuttle is also available during the season. The park has more than 350 campsites spread across three campgrounds — Pines, Cedars, and Beechwood — offering modern amenities close to trails and beaches. After exploring the park, take time to visit downtown Ludington, about six miles south. You’ll find Stearns Waterfront Park, featuring an excellent beach, the North Breakwater Light, and nine outdoor sculptures. Stop by the Ludington Maritime Museum, explore local shops and restaurants, or grab a bite at the 10 Spot food trucks on Route 10. For a unique adventure, board the S.S. Badger Ferry, operating since 1953, for a 60-mile trip across Lake Michigan to Wisconsin — or enjoy one of the scenic shoreline tours offered nearby. ⸻ 📍 Highlights • 7 miles of Lake Michigan beaches • Big Sable Point Lighthouse (1867) • 21 miles of hiking & biking trails • Hamlin Lake canoe trail & boat launch • Historic 1935 Michigan Beach House • Tubing, kayaking & fishing on the Sable River • 350+ campsites & modern facilities • Downtown Ludington shops, restaurants & museums • S.S. Badger ferry to Wisconsin ⸻ 🎥 If You Enjoyed This Video 👍 Like | 💬 Comment | 🔔 Subscribe for more Midwest adventures, Michigan travel guides, and outdoor destinations!