Ludington State Park Summer Events
The Ludington State Park holds multiple events for the whole family during the summer months. Don’t miss the live music and presentations!
Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
Visit the Hamlin Lake Beach in the Ludington State Park
The Water is Warmer and Calmer at the Hamlin Lake Beach
When the wind is kicking up waves on Lake Michigan, and conditions aren’t ideal for swimmers, where can you go to find calmer water? Probably the most popular sheltered beach in the Ludington area is the Hamlin Lake Beach within the Ludington State Park. Families, especially those with smaller children, appreciate the 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 other beach stretches for miles along Lake Michigan, perfect for sunning, swimming, and jumping in the waves on a windy day!
Because Hamlin Beach is part of an inland lake, the water is typically much warmer than Lake Michigan. The Hamlin Beach swimming area is also sheltered from the large waves found on Lake Michigan. This beach is ideal for families with young children. Photo: Todd and Brad Reed Photography
Visit the Hamlin Lake Dam
From the Hamlin Lake Beach, 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. It’s exciting to walk above the dam, to hear the roar of the rushing water, and to feel the spray in the air.
Discover the Hamlin Lake Canoe Pathway
The Hamlin Lake Beach in the Ludington State Park is the starting point for the popular 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, and kayaks.
Contact Ludington State Park
Planning a visit to the Ludington State Park area? Have questions about your trip? Here’s where you can find help:
- Michigan DNR reservations
(800) 447-2757
online reservations - Ludington State Park Local Office
(231) 843-2423 - Concessions & Watercraft Rental
(231) 843-1888
Dune Grass Concessions web page - Special Programs
(231) 843-9261 - Friends of the Ludington State Park
read our Ludington State Park Friends story online
Directions to the Ludington State Park
This drive along the Lake Michigan shoreline takes you through the dunes to one of the most beautiful destinations anywhere. It’s especially memorable at sunset.
Discover Things to See and Do in the Ludington State Park
Dune Grass Concessions
Dune Grass Concessions offers watercraft & bike rentals, concession food, ice cream, convenience items, State Park & Hamlin Lake souvenirs!
Enjoy Winter Activities in the Ludington State Park
The Ludington State Park offers winter activities. With snowshoeing tours, cross country skiing, and natural beauty, it’s a winter paradise!
Trail Guide for Ludington State Park
The Ludington State Park trails are as varied as they are beautiful. Hike or bike 18 miles of eight marked trails with information kiosks.
Big Sable Point Lighthouse
The black-and-white striped, 112 foot lighthouse at the Ludington State Park stands proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Hamlin Lake Beach in the Ludington State Park
The Hamlin Lake Beach within the Ludington State Park is fun for the whole family! With a dedicated, weed-free swimming area and more!
Aerial View of Big Sable Point
The aerial view of Big Sable Point features Hamlin Lake, Ludington State Park, and Big Sable Point Lighthouse on Lake Michigan.
Meet the Friends of Ludington State Park
Friends of Ludington State Park is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting wise use and conservation of the Ludington State Park.
Camping at Ludington State Park
One of the most popular state parks in the Midwest! Ludington State Park has four campgrounds, hundreds of sites for your camping pleasure.
Ludington State Park Improvements
The Ludington State Park recently had a major upgrade, and more improvements are coming. Read the details here.
Visit the Lake Michigan Beach House in Ludington State Park
The beautiful Lake Michigan Beach House in the Ludington State Park is a two-story shelter with visitor exhibits, lounging, and concessions.
Ludington State Park Water Trails
Water fun in the Ludington State Park! Float down the Big Sable River, paddle Hamlin Lake water trails, launch a pleasure boat, or swim!
Hamlin Lake Dam
The Hamlin Lake Dam controls the lake levels of Hamlin Lake, and the portion of Big Sable River which runs through the Ludington State Park.
Mason County Barn Quilt Trail
The Barn Quilt Trail, highlighting the lost art of barn decor, is one of four trails that comprise the Mason County Cultural Trails.
Music Heritage Trail
The Music Heritage Trail will take you from Idlewild to Baldwin and from Scottville to Ludington as it explores the historic music scene!
Pet Friendly Places
Your pet should feel right at home in Ludington. There are many businesses that allow pets and parks and beaches for them to play on.
Where to Watch the S.S. Badger Carferry in Port Ludington
Where’s the best place to watch the S.S. Badger arrive or depart Ludington? Here are great locations for viewing the Lake Michigan Carferry.
Historic White Pine Village
Discover small town life in the late 1800s and early 1900s at Historic White Pine Village in Ludington, overlooking Lake Michigan.
Trails and Tours
Discover all of the different trails and tours that Ludington has to offer! Discover a water path, hiking trail, or an art work stop!