Take This Scenic Route And Drive Through 5 Michigan State Parks In One Day
By Jackie Ann|Published November 01, 2022
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Jackie Ann
Author
Louisiana native and LSU Alum (Geaux Tigers!), Jackie has lived in Louisiana for over three decades and currently lives in New Orleans. She's been writing for OnlyInYourState since 2016 and can often be found with a coffee at her side, dreaming of her next adventure.
Did you know that there are over 100 state parks and state recreation areas in Michigan? You should spend a lifetime exploring them all (and they’re all worthy). This road trip definitely won’t take you to all of them, but it will take to you five scenic state parks in Michigan for a fun day trip along Lake Michigan’s coast.
From point to point, you’re looking at about a 200-mile drive, which would take just over 3.5 hours to complete. Obviously, you’ll want to stop off at each of the parks and see the sights (and stretch your legs) so you may want to make a long weekend out of it so you can take your time at each state park! Luckily, each of these parks offers camping options. Here’s an interactive map you can use to guide your way. Feel free to add your own stops to make the journey uniquely yours.
Known for its dune formations that rise 260 feet above the lake, Warren Dunes State Park is the perfect first stop along this road trip. The 1,952-acre state park boasts three miles of shoreline to enjoy as well as six miles of hiking trails.
With over a mile of sandy beach and dune formations, Van Buren State Park is a delightfully scenic spot. Even if the water is too cold, just being able to enjoy this view is enough of a reason to visit this Michigan State Park!
As we continue northbound, we arrive at PJ Hoffmaster State Park. Here you'll find three miles of shoreline and even more impressive dunes. Speaking of sand dunes, be sure to take the
Dune Climb Stairway while you're here. The four-mile hike will take you through some beautiful scenery and up an elevated boardwalk with some seriously magical views.
With over 3,000 acres to explore, you'll never run out of things to do at Silver Lake State Park. Thrill-seekers will especially love exploring the dunes on an ATV, one of the most popular attractions of the park.
5. Ludington State Park
Ludington State Park Beach, 8800 M-116, Ludington, MI 49431, USA
Our final park on the road trip is Ludington State Park Beach. An extensive trail system weaves throughout the park, and you never know what wildlife you'll see along the way, like this adorable little deer. Nestled between Hamlin Lake and Lake Michigan, the park offers stunning views of both.
Have you visited any of these state parks? Which one was your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
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