Ludington's Great Outdoors

Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography

Ludington's Great Outdoors is a Natural Resources Paradise!

Here in the Ludington area, we have a LOT of “Great Outdoors!” We take pride in our miles of beautiful beaches, the Ludington State Park, the Manistee National Forest, and all the activities that take place in Mother Nature’s playground. Golfing, fishing, boating, hunting, biking, and endless winter activities. The fun is endless all four seasons of the year. Fresh, clean air and the great outdoors of West Michigan. It doesn’t get any better than this.

Beaches & Parks

What could be more enjoyable than a day at the beach? If your idea of a perfect summer day is swimming, sunning, or people-watching, then you’ve discovered paradise. Pretty parks and beaches are scattered throughout the region, some along the lakeshore, others among wooded regions. Most parks have picnic tables, grills, and playgrounds.

Stearns Park Beach in Ludington | Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography

Bike Trails

The Ludington area has many safe and scenic areas in which to bike. You can choose to ride along the downtown waterfront, bike through a wooded forest, or take a trip out to the Ludington State Park. Either way, you’ll enjoy fresh air, exercise, and wonderful views.

Lighthouses

Lakeshore communities are blessed to have historic and beautiful lighthouses, and here in Ludington, you can visit these structures, which includes the North Breakwater Light and Big Sable Point Lighthouse.

In addition to the lighthouses in Ludington, there are many other lighthouses in West Michigan to explore. Read more about them here. 

The Ludington State Park

It’s the #1 State Park in the Midwest, and here’s why! Campgrounds, lighthouse, dam, beaches, hiking, and biking trails and informative summertime programs give visitors so much to do.  Woods, water, wildlife- you’ll find it all at the Ludington State Park.

Camping

Camping is becoming a very popular activity for families and couples. It’s inexpensive, and with all the forests and natural woodlands in Ludington, there’s never a shortage of campgrounds. 
Nothing is better than sitting around a campfire with those you care about and enjoying all the activities within the campground; such as swimming, biking, hiking, and fishing.

Cartier Park Campground
AM Lakeshore Family Guide Ad

Golf

Ludington has beautifully landscaped golf courses to enjoy. Swinging a golf club is relaxing and great exercise, and when you’ve got fresh air and gorgeous surroundings, why wouldn’t you want to head out on the links?

Disc Golf

Disc golf shares many similarities with traditional golf, but instead of a ball, players toss a disc down a course and try to get to the target in as few throws as possible. The winner is the player who completes the course with the lowest score. Ludington has many disc golf courses for you enjoy.

Advantage Marketing Stock Photo

Fishing

Whether it’s fishing for salmon on Lake Michigan, trout in the PM River, or walleye in Hamlin Lake- we’ve got the best variety here in Ludington. And local fishing tournaments give anglers a chance to add a little money to their pocket in addition to the fish in their bucket.

More Outdoor Fun in West Michigan!

Silver Lake Sand Dunes and Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness

Life along Lake Michigan, with its often windy conditions, makes for some fantastic dune formations. Ride the dunes at Silver Lake for a thrilling experience or enjoy the quiet solitude of the Nordhouse Dunes. Strategically planted dune grass helps keep the sand in place, ensuring that these dunes will survive for thousands of years to come.

Fall Color Tour

Autumn is one of our most beautiful seasons in Ludington. The trees turn glorious colors, and the landscape is awash in golds, reds and oranges. Driving down one of our back roads is both relaxing and pleasing on the eye.

Winter Fun

There’s no need to hibernate during the winter months in West Michigan- not with all the great outdoor activities that use the snow for fun! For those who love snowshoeing or cross country skiing, you won’t have to travel far to enjoy your sport.

  • More Activities & Attractions

    • More Activities & Attractions in Ludington...

    Ludington Art Scene

    Ludington is alive with an array of artistic events that take place throughout the year. There’s music, photography, art galleries, and more.

    Charter Boat Fishing

    No matter your experience level, Ludington area charter captains will guide you in what to bring and what to expect on the big lake.

    Weather & Water Conditions

    West Michigan weather – they say if you don’t like the weather in Ludington, wait a few minutes and it will change.

    Ludington Has Two Lighthouses!

    Ludington visitors flock to the area to view our two majestic lighthouses, the North Breakwater Light and Big Sable Point Lighthouse.

    Sunset Times

    It rises and sets every single day, and nothing is more breathtaking than our spectacular sunsets over Lake Michigan.

    Discover more of Ludington's "Great Outdoors"