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Ludington State Park
Biking
A paved biking and hiking trail runs along the Big Sable River linking the campgrounds to Lake Michigan, Hamlin Lake day use areas, and the amphitheater. Bicycles are allowed on park roads and the non-paved Lighthouse Road, but not on any foot trails or cross-country ski trails. The gravel and sand Lighthouse Road travels along the Lake Michigan shore from the Pines Campground to the Big Sable Point Lighthouse.
Boat Rental
Boat rentals are available at Hamlin Lake from mid-May to mid-October for kayaks, canoes, row boats, and paddle boats. Call the concession at 231-845-8582.
Cross Country Ski
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular winter activities. Be sure to check with the park for dates and times of popular snowshoe hikes. A heated log shelter is available at the trailhead parking area.
Fishing
Anglers will find an abundance of northern pike, largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, tiger musky and panfish. Lake Michigan offers boaters and anglers recreation opportunities as well. In the spring and fall, there is the challenge of salmon, lake trout, steelhead, and brown trout that swim along the shoreline of Lake Michigan and in the Big Sable River below the Hamlin Dam.
Hiking
An outstanding feature of the park is its trail system. There are eight separately marked foot trails that wind for 21.5 miles throughout woods and over the dunes. There are three rustic trail shelters located along the trails. A portion of the trail system is a hard surface and is ADA accessible.
Hunting
Approximately two-thirds of Ludington State Park's 5,300 acres is open to hunting. The best opportunities are for deer, squirrel and waterfowl hunting. The park also allows trapping in the open zones during specified seasons. The terrain ranges from dune and jackpine swails, brushy marsh and wetlands, to mature beech, oak and white pine forests.
Interpretive Programs
Ludington State Park offers many great attractions, classes, hikes, and interpretive programs year round. Visitors can learn about the sand dunes, the Great Lakes, the history of Big Sable Point Lighthouse, lumber town, and the Civilian Conservation Corps camp. Most programs are free, and reservations are not necessary. For more information on program locations, please contact Interpreter Alan Wernette at (231) 843-9261 or e-mail Alan at Wernettea@michigan.gov.
Metal Detecting
Metal detecting is recognized as a legitimate recreation activity when it is conducted in ways that do not damage the natural and cultural resources in Michigan State Parks nor violate applicable state statutes. If you wish to use a metal detector in this state park, here is a map that shows clearly where this activity may take place. Any items found must be reviewed by park staff and may be retained for further investigation.
Paddling
The one-of-a-kind canoe trail is a great means for visitors to explore portions of Ludington State Park not readily accessible on foot.
Swimming
Beaches available at Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake.
Watchable Wildlife
The winter perspective is quiet and serene, as visitors have a chance to view wildlife and various species of waterfowl that are abundant in the park.
The Wildlife Viewing Guide is now on line at www.michigan.gov/miwildlifeviewing.
Amphitheater

The outdoor amphitheater at the state park may be rented for open air weddings in a wooded setting. The rental fee includes reserved parking, exclusive use of the amphitheater facility with electricity available and restrooms nearby. Access to the beach and other scenic areas is available for photo opportunities. For details and reservations call the park office (231) 843-2423.

View a Photo
Beach House
One beach house located at Lake Michigan and one at Hamlin Lake. A beach wheelchair is available at each beachhouse upon request..
Boat Launch
Boat launch on Hamlin lake can accommodate up to 22 foot boats.
Concession/ Store
Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake day use areas have concessions that are open during the summer months. The Park Store, which is open mid-May to mid-October, is located in the Cedar campground.
Lighthouse
The Big Sable Point Lighthouse is open for tours May-October and maintained by the non-profit Sable Points Lighthouse Keepers Association. Access to the lighthouse is obtained by walking 2 miles one way.
Picnic Area
The day use area has two sandy beaches, one located on Lake Michigan and the other on Hamlin Lake. Both areas have concessions that are open during the summer months. A picnic area with waist-high grills and tables is located at Hamlin Lake beach and along the Sable River.
Picnic Shelter
Located at Hamlin Lake day use area. Available on first-come, first-served basis or by reservation. The shelter can be reserved up to a year in advance by calling 1-800-447-2757 or visiting www.midnrreservations.com.
Playground
 
 

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