Ludington State Park
Ludington State Park is housed on a whopping 5,300 acres of property. Sandwiched between Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake, this pawsome park is chock full of sand dunes, incredible views, forests, and beaches. Ludington State Park offers many outdoor activities with something sure to interest the whole family, especially the four legged member.
Furry visitors will go mutts over the park’s trail system.
Eight trails wind through the gorgeous property and range from a half mile to
four miles. If you only have time for
one hike, take the Lighthouse Trail. It meanders through a lovely forest and
across sand dunes until it reaches the famed Big Sable Point Lighthouse. Your
pooch will love gazing up at this beautiful structure.
Other recreational opportunities include fishing, biking,
swimming, and water sports. Metal detecting and a wide variety of classes are
also available. Please note that pets are not allowed in the water in any of
the park’s swimming or wading areas. But your water loving pup can splash
around in the Big Sable River and outside of the designated swim areas in
Hamlin Lake.
The park has an abundance of camp sites, so bring some
sleeping bags and stay a night or two. Pines, Cedar, and Beechwood Campgrounds
have tent and RV spots available. If your pup really wants to ruff it, backpack
to one of the remote sites in Jack Pine Hike-In-Only Campground.
A Recreation Passport is required to visit Michigan State
Parks. Michigan residents can purchase one for $11.00 when renewing their
license plate each year or for $16.00 at any other time. Non-residents must pay
a $9.00 day use fee. Bathrooms are located on the premises and drinking water is
also available. Complimentary poop bags are not provided, so bring some along and
always pick up after your pup.
If your pal is begging for a day trip to a great Michigan
park, Ludington State Park is the pawfect destination!
