M-116 Lakeshore Scenic Drive
A breathtaking Michigan State Park offering miles of sandy beaches, diverse trails, and the iconic Big Sable Point Lighthouse.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
M-116 Lakeshore Scenic Drive
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking Michigan State Park offering miles of sandy beaches, diverse trails, and the iconic Big Sable Point Lighthouse.
"This is by far my favorite State Park to stay at! Is it hard to get reservations? Yes. Is it worth it? Absolutely! "
🚗 Parking & Entry Fees
A daily park pass is required. Consider parking outside the entrance to walk in if you're unsure about fees. :car:
🥾 Trail Adventures
Explore miles of diverse trails, from sandy beach walks to wooded paths. Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ludington State Park Beach
Lake Michigan Shoreline
Expansive, clean sandy shores perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles.
Big Sable Point Lighthouse
Lake Michigan Shoreline
Iconic lighthouse offering panoramic views after a scenic hike or bike ride.
Hamlin Lake
Inland Lake
A serene freshwater lake ideal for kayaking, fishing, and enjoying a quieter side of the park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Prime Spots
Embrace the Lake Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Entry Fees
A daily park pass is required. Consider parking outside the entrance to walk in if you're unsure about fees. :car:
🥾 Trail Adventures
Explore miles of diverse trails, from sandy beach walks to wooded paths. Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Ludington State Park—Ludington, MI
🍦 Camp Store Treats
Grab ice cream and essentials at the camp store, a popular spot after a day of exploring. :ice_cream:
🌊 Lake Michigan Waves
Lake Michigan can be chilly and rough; be prepared for varying conditions. :ocean:
Anyone been to Ludington??
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Entry Fees
A daily park pass is required. Consider parking outside the entrance to walk in if you're unsure about fees. :car:
🥾 Trail Adventures
Explore miles of diverse trails, from sandy beach walks to wooded paths. Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
🍦 Camp Store Treats
Grab ice cream and essentials at the camp store, a popular spot after a day of exploring. :ice_cream:
🌊 Lake Michigan Waves
Lake Michigan can be chilly and rough; be prepared for varying conditions. :ocean:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Ludington State Park's stunning beaches and diverse activities, calling it a favorite for its natural beauty and ample opportunities for outdoor fun. While reservations can be challenging to secure, the experience is consistently described as 'worth it.' Some minor drawbacks include the lack of showers in certain areas and the chilly lake water.
"This is by far my favorite State Park to stay at! Is it hard to get reservations? Yes. Is it worth it? Absolutely! There is so much to do, you'll never be bored. Spend your days walking the miles of beautiful trails; kayak Lost Lake or Lake Michigan; float down or fish the Big Sable river; take a walk to the lighthouse; spend the day at the beach; take in the wildlife while on a bike ride; end you're days with some ice cream from the camp store."
Mandi Shaw
"This park was surprising beautiful and diverse. With Lake Michigan’s edge and the entirety of Lake Hamlin within the park, there is a large variety of adventures for all. Hiking miles of trails was on our agenda, and it was filled with diverse scenery, and we added new birds to our life list !"
Michelle Butler
"Great beach, with clear water tons of space.
Three volleyball courts.
Accessable walkway from shelter to beach, and beach chairs available.
Bathrooms (no showers) located in the shelter.
The shelter offers a store/cafe in the basement and a small museum upstairs.
Large free parking lot.
You do have to pay to get into the park, although we saw people parking just outside the entrance to the park and walking in (unsure if you have to pay when you walk in vs drive)."
Catelin Robinson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ludington State Park is located in Ludington, Michigan. It's accessible by car via US-10 and M-116. The park is well-signed from the main roads.
Public transportation options directly to the park are limited. It's best to drive or arrange for a ride-sharing service if you're not bringing your own vehicle.
The park has a network of roads and trails. Driving is convenient for reaching different areas, but walking and biking are excellent ways to explore the natural beauty.
While not a specific 'M-116 Lakeshore Scenic Drive' designation, the roads within and around Ludington State Park offer beautiful views of Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Michigan State Parks Recreation Passport is required for entry. You can purchase a daily or annual pass.
Daily passes are available, but an annual Recreation Passport offers better value if you plan to visit multiple Michigan State Parks throughout the year. Check the official Michigan DNR website for current pricing.
While some visitors have reported parking outside and walking in, it's generally understood that a Recreation Passport is required for all park users, regardless of entry method.
Ludington State Park is typically open year-round from 8 AM to 10 PM. However, specific facilities like the camp store may have seasonal hours.
Yes, reservations are highly recommended and can be difficult to secure, especially for campsites during peak summer months. Book well in advance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy hiking miles of trails, relaxing on the sandy beaches of Lake Michigan, kayaking Hamlin Lake, fishing the Big Sable River, and visiting the Big Sable Point Lighthouse.
Yes, the park offers a variety of trails, including some that are relatively flat and easy, like the paved walkway to the beach. More challenging trails are also available for experienced hikers.
You might spot various birds, including the elusive Piping Plover during nesting season, deer, and other small mammals. Birdwatching is a popular activity.
Bathrooms are available, but showers are not located in the main beach house. Some campgrounds may have shower facilities.
Yes, the Beach House store offers a cafe and a small museum in its basement and upstairs, respectively. It's a convenient spot for snacks and souvenirs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Beach House store has a cafe that offers some food options. For a wider variety of dining, you'll need to venture into the nearby town of Ludington.
Absolutely! There are picnic areas available, and bringing your own food is a great way to enjoy the park's scenery.
Ludington offers various dining options, from casual eateries to seafood restaurants. Many are within walking distance of the beach.
Yes, the camp store at Ludington State Park sells basic groceries, snacks, and ice cream.
📸 📸 Photography
The Big Sable Point Lighthouse, the expansive Lake Michigan beaches, and the serene Hamlin Lake offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Sunrise and sunset over Lake Michigan provide dramatic lighting. Golden hour is also excellent for capturing the park's natural beauty.
Yes, but always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Birdwatching photography is popular here.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Michigan State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check the park's specific regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
🚗 Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
For those seeking a more accessible experience, the paved walkway from the shelter to the Lake Michigan beach provides an easy stroll with beautiful views. Cyclists will also find designated paths and roads suitable for biking. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, especially for the sandy terrain, and bring water, particularly during warmer months.
Beach Bliss on Lake Michigan
Adjacent to the beach, you'll find volleyball courts and clean restrooms. The Beach House store is a convenient stop for snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. During nesting season, parts of the beach may be designated as protected areas for the Piping Plover, so respecting these zones is crucial for conservation efforts.
Lighthouse Adventures
The journey itself is part of the experience, with opportunities to enjoy the natural surroundings. Once at the lighthouse, you can often climb to the top for an unparalleled perspective of the lake and surrounding landscape (check for operational hours and any climbing fees). It's a rewarding destination that combines history, nature, and stunning vistas.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit