Ludington State Park

Forestlands and sand dunes along Lake Michigan offer diverse hiking terrain.

The sand dunes at Ludington State Park.

Wedged between Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake, Ludington State Park is a favorite canoeing and hiking destination.

The 5,300-acre park encompasses ancient conifer and hardwood forests, coastal dune formations, swamplands and hiking trails on gently-rolling terrain.

The park's marked canoe pathway begins at the Hamlin concession, then crosses the lake, passing reedy swamps and ponds filled with wildlife and flowers.

There are eight marked hiking trails winding through the woods and over dunes. There are also 16 miles of cross-country ski trails and fishing is excellent at both lakes and in the Big Sable River.

During the early days of Michigan's lumber boom the waters of Hamlin Lake were filled with logs. The dam on the Big Sable River burst in 1888, sending homes and logs spilling into Lake Michigan. Today, a new dam regulates the river and provides many recreational opportunities.

Three modern campgrounds in the park offer 355 campsites. For hikers, the park offers a ten-site campground.

From Ludington, take Lakeshore Drive north for eight miles. Lakeshore Drive becomes M-116, follow M-116 to the end to the park entrance.