I stopped in here for half a day to do some hiking and get my nature fix before moving on to my next road trip destination. The road to the entrance is full of sand dunes and beaches on Lake Michigan before turning into a wooded area at the actual park. We got to see a Bald Eagle perched upon a tree as we entered the park. The park has several RV camp sites that to me looked to be right on top of each other. They pack them in like sardines but I think that is the norm at these type of places these days. Not sure what the cost is to camp but for non-residents to come in for a day pass it was 11.00 per day. We decided to do the Lost Lake trail which is a loop across a couple islands on Hamlin Lake (yes there are bridges, you don't need to bring your snorkel). The hike was relatively void of people only passing a few along the way. I did see a hand full of people kayaking on the lake and a few more kayaks parked on the bank near the campground. The hike is 2.1 miles long and relatively flat the whole way. I wanted to do the lighthouse trail as well but there wasn't enough time. Great place to get your nature fix via kayak or foot. Not sure I would want to camp here on a weekend though unless you want Billy Bob and Mary Sue's 7 rugrats running around your site screaming. read more

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My bestie and I spent 2 days here camping in her Winnebago. Each site is very scenic and spacious, with beautiful forest surrounding you. The amenities are wonderful. Bathrooms and showers are spacious and clean. Staff is courteous and very helpful, as well. read more

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This state park has everything: the beach, sand dunes, hiking trails, a snack bar (the most important thing) and places to camp. If you're in the Ludington area, you need to make sure to visit this park. We mostly stayed at the beach when we visited. How could we not? The waves were mellow, the sand was clean and bright, and the crowd was almost nonexistent when we got there in the morning. The beach did get pretty busy as the day wore on, but if you're looking to beat the crowds, then staking out a spot in the morning is your best bet. We hiked into the sand dunes, which were amazing and very, very quiet. Have you ever been inside of a dune? It's a peaceful experience. These dunes were pristine and I almost didn't want to walk on the sand because I didn't want to disrupt the immaculateness of the area. Parking was easy when we got there in the morning, although there is a $10 fee to park unless you're a state park member. However, I had to leave and then come back again, and I couldn't find a spot without circling a few times. Parking can become scarce as the day goes on. We mostly only visited the beach and the sand dunes, so we barely scratched the surface of what this park has to offer. I will definitely be back to explore more when I'm in the area. read more

Ludington is one of those places where I simply cannot believe I haven't written a review for yet! This is one of my all-time favorite state parks and one of the best places to camp, but everyone already knows that because this is definitely one of the most popular destinations to camp at - so you'll be hard pressed to find availability if you're not on top of it and booking 6 months out!! But immaculate campgrounds aside, Ludington has even more to offer as well! They have beaches (including a dog-friendly beach), miles of shoreline, a gorgeous lighthouse, dunes, and miles upon miles of wonderful hiking trails! I think I hiked 20+ miles in one weekend, all within the confines of Ludington (and a few of those miles at the neighboring Nordhouse Dunes, which is a bit difficult to get to drive-wise) and saw so much scenery change and beauty! It was absolutely stunning! If you've never been to Ludington, then the must-hike trail is the one to and from the lighthouse! It can be a loop too if you begin inland a bit more, which stems off of one of the campgrounds. You can also do a massive loop and span the entire state park too, depending on how ambitious you're feeling! But if you're looking for something a bit more "off the beaten path," while still being a clearly marked path, I would highly recommend the Island and Ridge trail loop. The entire loop is about 5 miles and you get to see so many different landscapes and terrain, it's definitely a favorite of mine! Absolutely LOVE Ludington - a model Michigan state park! It feels isolated, while also feeling so populated and you could truly spend your entire time at this state park without feeling the need to visit anywhere else. It's a bit of a drive from the city of Ludington to get to the entrance of this state park, which sort of adds to that secluded feeling, but there will be a ton of activity once you get to the state park since everyone loves coming here. I've been coming here since I was a little girl camping with my family and other family friends every summer and I continue that tradition on in my adulthood with my own friends! read more

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What a great place to camp! So much to see and many trails to walk or bike. Cool Dam to view too. Great camping sites. Popular place because it's so awesome read more

Ludington State Park - Dam - Campgrounds Near Me - Ludington, Michigan

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It doesn't get much better than this. Crystal clear water, pine needles scattered in the sandy trails and great views of Hamlin Lake and lake MI. Lost Lake and Island trail is one of my favorites and there is so much to enjoy from the birdsongs to ferns and irises. A little elevation but nothing too rigorous. Can't wait to come back and kayak! read more

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A little slice of heaven on earth! I've grown up coming here. There is nothing quite like it. The lake is beautiful and the trails are just fantastic. I enjoy walking them w my dog too. read more

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This state park is one of our favorite spots to visit. It has something for everyone. Trails, lake, river and a beautiful playground for kids. We sometimes take our pontoon there and visit and fish. Other times we drive there and just hang out. read more

The park is beautiful! My boyfriend and I went camping in the park in mid-November. At that time, the park stores were closed for the season and there weren't many visitors as it's cold during this time of year. But we loved having the park to ourselves, especially since it's supposed to be very crowded in the summer. When we visited, the leaves were changing colors and it was absolutely beautiful! The locals mentioned the leaves typically change colors in mid- to late-October. The park has several short hiking trails that are very well marked. I'd highly recommend the Lost Lake/Island Trail and the Lighthouse Trail. The park also has a lot of beach front, which would be fun to relax at in the summer. We stayed for two night and were able to explore most of the park and were even able to spend an afternoon in town (Ludington). I'd highly recommend visiting Ludington State Park for a day trip or overnight stay! read more

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*this review is for the campground* It's easy to see why this is one of the hardest campgrounds to get into. This park is one of the nicest, most beautiful and activity filled in Michigan. We arrived for a Friday-Sunday stay and after a easy check in (the registration booth is a distance away from the campground to avoid traffic back ups at the main entrance) we pulled into site 89 located in the Pines loop located next to the dunes. There are 3 different loops here the Pines (lake MI beach), the Cedar (middle/forest) and the Beechwood (Hamlin Lake/ boardwalk) they are all different and have different feelings to them. Our site was sandy and open, with a private-ish path leading right up the dune to overlook Lake MI. The sites here are typical State park sites, not huge but we never felt cramped because, with so much to do in the park, most people are gone from their sites during the day (us included) Staying here makes people happy. This was easily the most friendly camping experience we've had all summer. The rangers were helpful and approachable. The bathrooms in the Pines loop were older than some of the other loops but were in good condition and were clean the duration of the weekend. We have reservations to return twice more this year and we can hardly wait. read more

Ludington State Park - Pines loop site 89 - Campgrounds Near Me - Ludington, Michigan

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Ludington State Park is simply beautiful. We hike the lost lake trail every year when we come to this area of Michigan. I've also spent time hiking many of the other trails but the lost lake loop is perfect for grandparents and kids. The breeze here is sweet as you hile trails between Lake Michigan and Hamill Lake. There are beautiful beaches in several areas and the water is crystal clear almost all the time. The last bit of a hike is particularly magical as you walk down about a half mile of boardwalk over the water and can see fish and the bottom of the lake as you walk by. read more

Amazing. I have traveled all over the country and I can honestly say that the facilities are so nice. I am so impressed

Large park with beach access. Restrooms were open and clean. Beach was nice with close parking.

We went for a day trip to the beach and had a very fun time swimming and playing in the massive waves. We spent about 4 and a half hours at the beach. It was a good view and the parking was so full that we had to park on the side of the road. Near the end of our trip we had a great find of blue sunglasses at the bottom of the lake. Overall it was a great trip! read more

Such a fun place to go for a weekend getaway!! The beaches were extremely well kept and the kayak rental was reasonably priced for such a beautiful location read more

This is beach goes a long distance - unfortunately only a small section allow dogs which is near the dock area which the boats are departed from. Still very beautiful - since i had my pup I didn't really go exploring like i wanted to but I did go into town. The little town is only 1 mile starting from the beach; some store are doggy friendly as well. I would do 5 stars if dogs had full range - all and all; get off your phones and take in the beauty of Ludington. read more

Friendly, huge state park - in the serene and "Pure Michigan" town of Ludington. My girlfriend and I have visited this park 2 summers in a row, and while we haven't camped here per se, we have parked here and taken the approx. 1.1 mile trail and/or Lake Michigan beach shore walk to the beautiful Big Sable Point Lighthouse. We have ventured into the campground to use the restroom and get a head start on the trail walk before and the site looked very cozy, being wooded and nicely in the shade - and just mere steps away from the trail to the lighthouse, as well as the Lake Michigan shoreline. The campgrounds have great space and great restroom facilities. It feels peaceful, but when we were there it was definitely packed with campers so privacy may be a concern, since when it's busy, chances are you will have neighbors just yards away from your site. With everyone being so friendly and approachable, this would be a plus for social creatures anyway. The campground has 3 main distinct areas and plenty of rentals (e.g. kayaks, canoes, bikes, etc.). The access to Lake Michigan from these campgrounds offer peaceful, shallow waters - excellent for swimming in the summertime, and the trail is great as well. There are some historic checkpoints along the way. Big Sable Point Lighthouse is a great sight to see. It is not an active lighthouse, and now is a local tourist attraction. Donate a couple bucks or buy something from the gift shop with the friendly folks that run the lighthouse - and you can take the winding stairs up to the tall and historic lighthouse. The view and breeze you feel at the very top is, well, it's Pure Michigan! Overall, Ludington State Park is an awesome mix of friendly, beach, sand, trail, nature, water, and historic. It makes for an ideal, peaceful, and mature camping getaway - especially with the charming, quaint downtown Ludington nearby. Partiers and younger campers may prefer camping a 1/2 hour south of here by Silver Lake. read more

Ludington State Park - Easy access to Lake MI from Ludington State Park - Campgrounds Near Me - Ludington, Michigan

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Beautiful uncrowded beach stretches for miles. With only small sand dunes separating the road from the beach, it is very easy to pull over, park and walk the 50 yards to the beach anywhere here. There is a popular campground here which is always quite crowded. A lazy shallow river runs from the lake to Lake Michigan through the campground, and in the summer is perfect for floating down in a tube. Great store in the campground has all you will need for that and more. The park is about 4 miles from downtown Ludington. read more

Ludington State Park - looking south towards Ludington - Campgrounds Near Me - Ludington, Michigan

Even though I was here the day before a major holiday (July 4th), the beach was only super crowded around the parking lot. Walking 2-3 minutes away from the parking lot, towards the lighthouse, one could have yards of sand all to him or herself. The water is quite clear and a pleasure to swim in (at least when the weather is warm and sunny). And of course there is Big Sable lighthouse, which provides a great 360 degree view of the area. Costs 2 bucks for adults, 1 dollar for kids to climb to the top. One last note: don't expect much greenery. The highlight of the park is the beach, lighthouse, and sand dunes. The only downer to the park is poor signage. I still am not sure if you are supposed to pay an entrance fee (I didn't, but there was someone at the entrance looking at every car for some reason), and it wasn't clear what roads led to what. read more

Michigan has seemingly infinite natural treasures to explore, and this is one of them. I can remember fishing the breakwater near town with my Dad when I was quite young, no later than 1972, for sure. But, somehow, I've missed the state park. Wow, what a LONG drive out to the entrance. From the time you enter the duney drive, is it five miles to the real entrance? Great new beachhouse, handicapped accessible, fine history displays. As always, I could have spent all day here, but only had half that. On the way out, we drove through the campground area. Looks like you can have your own private tubing adventure on the Big Sable River, if you bring/buy/rent a tube. read more

Ludington State Park - rain giving way to sun - Campgrounds Near Me - Ludington, Michigan

This park has an awesome dog area tucked back in the forest, right across from the lake. Plenty of shade, sandy soil and pine needles for the pups to kick around and plenty of space to play ball. It has a large and small dog area and sits next to a bike path through the forest. read more

Huge state park. Beach, river tubing to Lake Michigan from Hamlin Lake, kayaking, camping and bike trails. Close to beach is a concession building with bathrooms, Mancinos pizza and more food if needed, beach accessible wheelchair to borrow if needed. Sand dunes , amphitheater and more trails. Get there early for parking. read more

There is a reason why this State Park is ranked #2 in the US as best park.. it has it all. And is just beautiful!!! Every year we say we are going to explore more of it... but haven't yet... we always have so much to do in Ludington and want more down time as well. Or favorite part = BEACH ON HAMILN is fantastic. Nearly always calm water. Shallow enough for all kids. Plenty of beach for sitting and sunning or building your castles. Rent tubes. Ride down the river out to Lake Michigan. Concessions and amenities. Picnic and grill areas. Head out kayaking and go on some trail water ways or out into Hamlin lake. LOVE this park!!! read more

Gorgeous campground with plenty of activities for everyone in your group. We camped here this weekend with a group of 7. I booked two adjacent tent-only sites in Cedars. We didn't want to be surrounded by RVs, and Cedars was the only campground that still had two sites left next to one another. We liked being near to the camp store and the hosts (free coffee!), but in the future, I'd try to book in either Pines (dune/beach adjacent) or in Beechwood (lake adjacent). We had sites 207 and 207A, and they were very cozy- if you are alone, I don't recommend booking just one of these sites, as they are extremely close together and not very large. The tent only loop is right next to the playground and the camp store. We don't have kids, so the playground was not a feature we used, and we wish it were farther away. The kids are cute and I'm happy they have a place to play, but we had a few soccer balls and softballs come into our campsite and dangerously close to our cars. The bathrooms were awesome- very clean, and there were enough toilets and shower stalls that we never had to wait. There was plentiful hot water and adequate soap and toilet paper in the restrooms. The beach was lovely, and there was a concession stand and store in case you forgot sunscreen or want to purchase a large, inflatable crocodile or sea turtle to play with. We spent one day kayaking from the lake near Beechwood out into Lake Michigan, and this was a real highlight. The lake is pretty shallow (in some places, not more than a few feet deep, and crystal clear), and it was perfect for beginning kayakers. The hiking trails were okay. We did a loop around the lakes, and it was a combination of dirt/sand path and boardwalk. Most of the longer trails wind through dunes, which is not my personal favorite. If you like dunes and walking in sand, though, you'll love it. We will definitely return to Ludington! read more

Ludington State Park can serve as a day-use area or starting point for a backpacking adventure. On the West Coast of Michigan, about 5 hours from Chicago, this State Park is right on the Lake and offers weekend parking for backpackers. There's also free road-side parking on the road leading up to the park that people can use during the day for easy beach access. We recently embarked on a 16 mile lake-side trek leaving one car up north at Magoon Creek and then driving south to Ludington State Park, parking the other car there for State Park fees - $6/day or $8/day for out-of-state plates. We then hiked north through the Nordhouse Dunes (viewing the lighthouse on the way, 1.8 miles from the parking lot) with the intention of ending up at the Magoon Creek Natural Area. Unfortunately, north of Cooper Creek (north of Lake Mich. Rec Area) the beach got very narrow and eventually it was impossible to walk on the beach anymore. There were railroad ties in the water for a long stretch, perhaps for boats to be docked, making walking in the shallow water pretty close to impossible. So our only option was to walk up on the land, in the brush. For a short distance it seemed as if there was a narrow trail some people had previously used, although it was obviously not maintained. Eventually though the "trail" disappeared into the steep bluffs and we were basically thrashing through the weeds and trees. It was dangerous as you couldn't tell where the ground was; the weeds were deceptive in tricking you that there was a solid spot to put your foot when there wasn't. After about 1/2 a mile of this, with no end in sight, we climbed someone's stairs to end up in their backyard. The neighbors notified us that we were still about 2 miles from our car at Magoon Creek, which we just walked to along the road. Despite the end of our adventure, the rest of the hike through the Nordhouse Wilderness was great. I'm not sure if the State of Michigan has not maintained a trail where we were or if the landscape has simply changed since the book we were using was written (2007) , but no worries, I did drop a line to the author to notify him! For future hikers, I'd probably suggest either hiking between the Lake Michigan Rec. Area (crowded) and Ludington State Park, camping in the Nordhouse Wilderness (pretty isolated) along the way. Or else just go in and out from Ludington State Park. Once you get out of the Park and into the backcountry it's great - you basically can just pitch your tent anywhere in the dunes, as long as you're far enough away from the water (400ft, I believe). Firewood is easy to come by in the woods and the sunsets are not too shabby sitting on the dunes! We had minimal problems with bugs or wildlife, although hiking 16 miles through sand was a bit harder than I envisioned! Check in at Ludington State Park for car permits and to register as Nordhouse Dunes Campers - they'll mark down your emergency contact info. BOTTOM LINE: Beautiful stretches of beach, isolated shoreline in the Nordhouse area, too populated in the Lake Michigan Rec. Area. Prepare your calves for hiking through the sand and you'll be a-okay. Just don't try to do the hike from Ludington to Manistee (Magoon Creek) because, as of now, it doesn't exist! read more

Ludington State Park - Big Sable Point Lighthouse - Ludington State Park - Campgrounds Near Me - Ludington, Michigan

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Beautiful state park!! We are camping right near Ludington and came here today. The beach is right there as soon as you drive in but if you go to the left it looks like there's some pretty nice campgrounds. My sister and I hiked from the Hamlin dam to lighthouse (around a 3 hour hike if you're going slowly and enjoying the view like we were). Super pretty scenery and not bad for hiking! Dog friendly as well since we passed by a few people walking with their dogs. After that we went along the lake back towards the entrance and we walked back to our car near the dam. Would definitely recommend that route!! The beach is very nice as well- the water is pretty warm!! There's another smaller beach at Hamlin Lake if you drive towards the dam it's right before there, but it seems better for boats/renting canoes/paddleboards/kayaks which we will probably do tomorrow as it looks really serene and scenic.. read more

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For beaches, hikes, the lighthouse, boating, etc., Ludington State Park is a 5-star experience. For camping, however, it can be a nightmare. I have never seen a campground so crowded with people where people are practically camping on top of each other. If you are looking for a peaceful camp situation this is not for you. I highly recommend taking the short hike to Big Sable Point Lighthouse, and climbing the 130 steps to the top. You will be rewarded with remarkable views of the gorgeous shoreline, dunes, and park land. There is a fast food and ice cream restaurant on the beach which is passable. The onion rings are quite good but the chicken nuggets are Swanson's and the service can be slow when it's busy. You can actually watch them open up the frozen Swanson's bag and fry the nuggets. Their sloppy joe is decent as is their root beer float. read more

Best state park in the Midwest. Dunes are stunning, and the Jack Pines Campground were comfortable and beautiful. Can't wait till our next vacation here! read more

If you like lots of bugs this is the place for you. Yes it is a beautiful park, but, be careful that you know all of the rules of the park, and follow them to the letter. A reminder of a rule infraction from a ranger will not be a pleasant experience. Most people camping at the park bring dogs with them. While many clean up after their pet a lot do not. Every thing at the camp store is priced to help you empty your pockets of your cash. A very small bundle of fire wood is priced at 5.50. It will last about twenty minutes in your nice fire pit. A short trip into town will reward you with nice clothing items at far less cost and nice quality. It is not recommend that you bring fire wood from home. If you are camping at the park and your site is not in the Beachwood section of the park, you will not be able to take advantage of the very nice boardwalk area of lost lake, unless you enjoy a long hike before your lake trail hike. There is NO parking in the Beachwood park available. If you should attempt to park at the 30 minute parking area of the bathrooms you can receive a valid citation payable at the court house in Ludington. Take lots of money for that. I can only conclude that those trails are for the Beachwood campers only. Once in a while you will see a ranger driving through the campgrounds. Not sure why, their windows are rolled up and they only look straight ahead. They are not there to be friendly, thinking so is your mistake. The park can be very noisy at night, with little consideration for others. If you like being awake until midnight you can be. This park is very pet friendly, lots of dogs barking. I enjoyed the Raccoons running around seeing what they can get into at each camp site. They don't miss a site by the end of the night. The park is there for you to enjoy. If you are lucky enough to get a site at this park, everyone wants to be there. There are not many fish in the two lakes due to over fishing but if by chance you get one consider yourself a winner. Don't expect signs to help you know where things are. Not many signs and not placed to be helpful. No road markings to assist with traffic flow so driving in the wrong direction is not unusual. There are lots of fun things at the park. Take your bike and go for a ride on the many bike paths. Many people will not move to one side so you can get by so you may have to hit them, be sure and express your sympathy for their injury. One of the best things about the park is the clean restrooms and showers. They do a great job and are known to be the best of any state park in Michigan. Take lots of bug spray, you will need it. read more

The Ludington State Park is great. I have camped here and also done most of the trails. I really enjoy the Island Trail. They have 3 different campgrounds, with lots of activities. A nature center, beaches, canoe/kayak/paddleboat rentals, a nice dam to go look at. Also here is the Big Point Sable Lighthouse. This place is great. read more

Incredible park that offers hiking, biking, boating, swimming. Gorgeous views from the rolling sand dunes on Lake Michigan to the woods, wildlife, lighthouses, Lost Lake, and Lake Hamlin. A poster park for Pure Michigan. I've been camping here since I was a child & now bring my own family yearly. Many memories & enjoy every trip. read more

Ludington State Park - Untouched tranquility - Campgrounds Near Me - Ludington, Michigan

This is a beautiful park that has something enjoyable for everyone. We didn't camp at the park, but instead drove in each morning and stayed in the park all day. We floated the river, hung out at the beach, and explored tons of trails. The beach: it's called "Lake Michigan Beach". I think it tops Empire beach. The views in both directions are fantastic, and if you're willing to commit an hour or two, you can hike to some of the best vistas in Michigan. There's also a kid/family oriented beach at Hamlin Lake, where tons of trails terminate. There's a pretty cool canoe/kayak trail as well but I didn't check that one out. The Ridge Trail/Lost Lake Trail hike is one of the most beautiful hikes I've ever done. Check it out! read more

Ludington is a great park and it's always a great time. I would warn anyone going to camp though! Be very careful choosing a site. My boyfriend and I had a site that was completely sand. It was like setting up camp on a beach... Which sounds nice until there is sand EVERYWHERE and in everything. Other sites around us looked much better, so as long as you're careful when choosing you should be fine. Other than the site, everything was clean and fun! read more

Ludington State Park - Campgrounds Near Me - Ludington, Michigan

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HUGE state park. friendly people. modern facilities. lots to do. several miles away from town though. lighthouse only accessible via 2 mile walk from main ranger station. ouch. no complaints here though. all in all a good park. we had fun here. 5 stars. read more

Went here recently, both on cloudy and rainy days! Would love to come back on a sunny day or warmer weather! Also would love to spend more time exploring and hiking the area! Hiked the area to see the sable lighthouse. Beautiful sand dunes and beach even when it's cloudy!! read more

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My husband and I took a 5-night road trip exploring the sunset coast of Michigan and spent one night camping here. We reserved a campsite in Beechwood several weeks earlier and had intentions to hike but had no idea what to expect. SPOILER ALERT: It was wonderful! Even before we arrived at our campsite, we knew we'd come back in the future. This park has so much to offer. We saw people lazily tubing on the river, cycling, walking dogs, going to the beach, and more. Being able to experience the forest *and* the beach at the same location is total novel to me (but not to the folks in Michigan, apparently). The campsite itself had plenty of room plus a picnic table and fire pit, both in good shape. (We didn't need electrical hookup but I'm sure it was available.) The shower and bathroom facilities were clean and nearby. We pitched our tent, hiked for a few hours, washed up, went to dinner in town, played cards in our tent, slept, packed up early the next morning, had breakfast in town, and drove on to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Throughout that short time, we remarked repeatedly that we should definitely return to take in more of the park. When we told my husband's Michigander coworkers that we stayed at Ludington State Park, they all replied that we made a great choice--validated! read more

Our. Family really enjoyed coming to the Park. Beautiful lighthouse and gorgeous each made for a pleasant experience.

Excellent park we have been coming here for years. Good family fun. Hiking, swimming kayaking. Great facility. read more

Nice and easy parking on the road. Multiple paths to the beach. The privacy wasn't great, but there was plenty of room between our spot and the next person. The water was amazing and the sand beneath was perfect. We went on the 4th and the beach wasn't that busy. If you are in the area, don't bother with the downtown park beach; This is where it is! read more

In order to combat Covid, the bathrooms are closed and replaced with a porta potty. However, the porta potty does not even have a container for hand sanitizer inside. There is no way to get rid of germs on your hands, and that could be a major risk for some people. read more