Best Camping Beaches in Michigan

Buttersville Park Beach is a stunning beach located in Ludington, United States. The beach is approximately half a mile long and features soft, golden sand.

Orchard Beach State Park is a beautiful beach located in Manistee, United States. The beach stretches over 50 acres and is known for its golden sand color.

Petoskey State Park is a stunning beach located in Menonaqua Beach, United States. The beach is approximately 1,500 feet long and features soft, white sand.

Ludington State Park Campground Beach is nestled between the expansive 5,000-acre Hamlin Lake and the majestic Lake Michigan shoreline, offering a serene blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. The park features nearly seven miles of sandy Lake Michigan beach, scenic sand dunes, and the iconic Big Sable Point Lighthouse. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, fishing, and hiking on the park's 21 miles of marked trails. The beach house along the Lake Michigan shoreline provides interpretive exhibits and programming, enhancing the visitor experience.
The park's diverse landscape includes forests, marshlands, and ponds, making it a haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. The campground itself offers 352 sites and three mini cabins, providing ample accommodation options for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
Overall, Ludington State Park Campground Beach offers a unique combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for families and nature lovers alike.

Silver Lake State Park is nestled in Oceana County, Michigan, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. The park boasts nearly 3 miles of stunning Lake Michigan shoreline and over 2,000 acres of sand dunes, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing on the lake, while the sand dunes provide opportunities for off-road vehicle (ORV) adventures and scenic hiking trails. The park also features a modern campground and day-use areas, perfect for family picnics and relaxation. As the sun sets, the dunes offer breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

One of the park's most distinctive features is the Silver Lake ORV Area, which is the only place east of the Mississippi River where you can ride ORVs on sand dunes. This area is popular among thrill-seekers and offers a unique experience. Additionally, the park offers horseback riding and fat-tire biking during specific seasons, allowing visitors to explore the dunes in different ways.

The park's natural beauty is complemented by its rich biodiversity, supporting several endangered species and offering a glimpse into Michigan's natural heritage. With its mix of adventure and tranquility, Silver Lake State Park is an ideal getaway for those seeking both excitement and relaxation.

Harrisville State Park is a beautiful beach located in Harrisville, United States. This beach is approximately 450 feet long and has soft, light-colored sand that is perfect for relaxing and sunbathing.

Bay Furnace Recreation Area Beach is located in Christmas, Michigan, on the shores of Lake Superior. It offers a stunning view of the lake with spectacular sunrises, sunsets, and occasional northern light displays. The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, providing access to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Alger Underwater Preserve, and numerous waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy camping at Bay Furnace Campground, which features 49 campsites equipped with fire rings and tables, along with vault toilets and drinking water.
The beach itself is part of the Bay Furnace Day Use Site, offering a rugged Lake Superior beachfront ideal for beachcombing and picnics. The picnic area includes tables, grills, and accessible vault toilets, making it a great spot to spend the day.
The proximity to Munising provides easy access to boat ramps and other recreational activities like fishing and boat tours.

Twelvemile Beach is a stunning stretch of shoreline within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Located about 15 miles west of Grand Marais, it offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior and is known for its pristine sand beach and scenic hiking trails. The beach is accessible via the Twelvemile Beach Campground, which provides a rustic camping experience with amenities like picnic tables and fire grates.
Visitors can enjoy long walks along the beach, explore the nearby sandstone cliffs, and experience the tranquility of the surrounding wilderness. The area is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking an adventurous getaway.
The campground itself is nestled on a sandy bluff overlooking the lake, offering picturesque views and a serene atmosphere.

Weko Beach Park, located in Bridgman, Michigan, is a picturesque destination nestled among 42 acres of wooded dunes along Lake Michigan. It offers a serene environment for relaxation and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the sandy beaches, a modern beach house, small craft boat launch, concessions, and clean restrooms. The park features a rambling boardwalk and two observation decks, providing panoramic views of the lake and dunes. Free concerts are held throughout the summer, and the playing of Taps at sunset is a long-standing tradition from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The park also includes a campground with 68 campsites and seven rustic cabins available from May to mid-October.

The beach is ideal for families and groups, offering a playground and nearby camp store. It's a popular spot for water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. The scenic views and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect getaway for those seeking to connect with nature.

Weko Beach Park is well-suited for both day visits and extended stays, with its proximity to local restaurants and hotels adding to its appeal.

Muskegon State Park North Campground Beach is a stunning destination located on the shores of Lake Michigan in Muskegon, Michigan. The park offers a beautiful beach area with cool sand dunes, making it perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, including the popular Lost Lake trail, which follows cross-country ski trails. The park also features a Winter Sports Complex with activities like luge, ice skating, and cross-country skiing. Additionally, there are two campgrounds available for those who want to stay overnight. The beach is a great spot to watch sunsets and enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Michigan.

The park's diverse ecosystems include forests, wetlands, and meadows, providing a rich environment for outdoor enthusiasts. With over two miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and a mile on Muskegon Lake, there are plenty of opportunities for boating and fishing. The park's scenic views and historic blockhouse are must-visit attractions.

Muskegon State Park is a year-round destination, offering something for everyone, from summer swimming and hiking to winter sports and camping. It's a place where families and nature lovers can come together to enjoy the beauty of Michigan's west coast.

Grand Haven State Park is a picturesque 48-acre beachfront park located on the shores of Lake Michigan in Grand Haven, Michigan. It offers stunning views of the Grand Haven pier and lighthouses, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The park is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and volleyball. It also features a modern campground with 174 sites, a rental house, and various amenities like picnic areas and a playground. Visitors can enjoy fishing from the pier and take in the scenic views of Lake Michigan. The park's proximity to the Grand River and its boardwalk adds to its charm, providing a scenic walkway that connects to the commercial district of Grand Haven.

The park's history dates back to 1920 when it was established as one of Michigan's first state parks. Originally a 35-acre public beach, it has grown to become a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park's accessibility features, including an accessible walkway and beach wheelchairs, ensure that everyone can enjoy its beauty.

Grand Haven State Park is not only a great place for relaxation but also offers a range of activities and attractions nearby, such as the Musical Fountain and the Harbor Trolley, which enhance the overall experience of visiting this beautiful coastal area.

Lakeport State Park Campground is situated on the shores of Lake Huron in Burtchville Township, Michigan. It offers a lively outdoor experience with amenities like electric hookups, modern restrooms, and a camp store. The beach area is rocky, making it ideal for rock collecting, and visitors can enjoy watching freighters pass by. The park is well-maintained, with two campgrounds offering different site options, including grassy and paved sites. It's a popular spot for southeast Michigan residents due to its proximity and scenic views.

The park's location allows for a mix of relaxation and adventure, with activities such as biking trails, playgrounds, and hiking. The scenic views of Lake Huron provide a serene backdrop for camping and outdoor activities. Overall, Lakeport State Park Campground is a great choice for families and groups seeking a fun and comfortable outdoor experience.

Its history dates back to 1938, and it has since become a beloved destination for those seeking a blend of nature and recreation.

Albert E. Sleeper State Park is a picturesque destination located in Caseville, Michigan, offering a serene blend of forest, wetlands, and forested dunes along Lake Huron's Saginaw Bay. The park spans 723 acres and features a half-mile of sandy shoreline, perfect for sunrises and sunsets. Visitors can enjoy forested trails, relax on the beach, or explore the modern campground. The park is named after Albert E. Sleeper, a former governor of Michigan who played a pivotal role in establishing the state park system.
The park's day-use area includes a beach house and picnic area, accessible via a pedestrian overpass bridge. It also offers a fully enclosed kitchen and dining hall for events.
The park's tranquil setting and diverse landscapes make it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

P.J. Hoffmaster State Park is located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, offering a stunning 3-mile stretch of sandy beach and 1,200 acres of wooded sand dunes. The park is named after P.J. Hoffmaster, a key figure in Michigan's state parks system. It provides a serene environment for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and birdwatching. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful sunsets and explore the dunes via the Dune Climb Stairway, which leads to an observation deck with panoramic views. The park also features a modern campground with nearly 300 sites, making it an ideal spot for families and nature lovers alike.

The park's unique landscape includes towering dunes and a variety of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The Gillette Visitor Center offers insights into the park's ecosystem and hosts interpretive programs. Whether you're interested in hiking, camping, or simply enjoying the beach, P.J. Hoffmaster State Park offers something for everyone.

Its proximity to Muskegon and Grand Rapids makes it easily accessible for both day trips and longer stays. The park's natural beauty and recreational opportunities create a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Van Buren State Park Beach is located in South Haven, Michigan, and is renowned for its majestic sand dunes and a mile of sandy beach along Lake Michigan. The park offers a serene and natural setting, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and hiking. It is situated just three miles south of South Haven, providing easy access to local shops and restaurants. The park's scenic trails and picturesque views make it a popular destination for families and nature lovers alike.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including biking, metal detecting, and bird watching, with over 120 bird species identified in the area. The park also features a campground with modern campsites and amenities like picnic shelters and playgrounds.
The nearby town of South Haven offers a charming coastal experience with its distinctive restaurants, vineyards, and museums, making Van Buren State Park Beach an ideal base for exploring the region.