We love to talk about this wonderful place, known as the "Queen of the State Parks." And the title is appropriate, since Midwest Living magazine has just named the Ludington State Park the #1 state park in the Midwest! Within its 5,300 acres just north of Ludington, you'll discover all nature has to offer, including marshlands, scenic sand dunes, hardwood forests, and nearly seven miles of Lake Michigan shoreline along its western border. Campers, hikers, fishermen, and families flock to the park every year to enjoy the multitude of activities. Here, you can swim, climb a dune, walk along the beach, hike, bike, boat, fish, and relax...surrounded by endless scenery that's varied and unique. For Camp Reservations, Call 1-800-447-2757, or go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

A state park motor vehicle permit is required to enter Ludington State Park, and can be purchased at the gate. Cost is as follows:
Day Pass (Residents) $6.00
Day Pass (Non-Residents) $8.00
Annual Pass (Residents) $24.00
Annual Pass (Non-Residents) $29.00

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. A description of the individual trails - and the estimated walking time for each - is detailed by clicking on "Trail Maps" at the top of this page.

The park is also well known for its unique and picturesque marked canoe pathway. Launch your canoe at the Hamlin Lake Beach and meander along the eastern shore of Hamlin Lake through shallow bayous rich with wildlife and waterfowl. The time required to travel the pathway is about one to three hours, depending upon your skill level and preferred pace. Canoes are available to rent from the Hamlin Lake Concession Stand, where you can also rent paddleboats, rowboats, kayaks, and aqua cycles.

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. Other areas in the park that are barrier free are the Hamlin Beach changing and concession building, certain campsites and all restroom buildings in the Pines and middle Beechwood campgrounds.

In the quieter seasons of spring and fall, the Ludington State Park's beauty is magnified by serenity. When winter blankets the landscape with a pristine white hush, snow lovers can cross country ski on 16 miles of groomed trails. Snowshoeing is another great winter activity that's growing in popularity and you can burn up to 700 calories per hour of moderate walking! Guided snowshoe walks are held throughout the winter. You can bring your own snowshoes or borrow one of 40 pairs available on a first-come first-serve basis at the state park. All walks begin and end at the warming shelter complete with picnic tables--and plenty of heat!

Anyway you look at it, this truly is Michigan's most popular state park. Come discover the splendor and fun of the Ludington State Park!

Ludington State Park Contact Info

• ALL Camping Reservations (Michigan DNR): (800) 447-2757 or Michigan DNR, Ludington State Park


• Main Office/Special Programs (Local): (231) 843-2423


• Cedar Camp Store (watercraft rental) (Local): (231) 845-8582


• Snowshoe Class Reservations (Local): (231) 843-9261