Empire, MI
A little about this place
Get to know Saugatuck Dunes State Park.
A day use park along a secluded strip of Lake Michigan shoreline, Saugatuck Dunes State Park offers 1,000 acres of land with two and a half miles of shoreline. The Lake Michigan beach is a two-thirds mile hike from the picnic parking area. In addition, the park has fresh water coastal dunes that are over 200 feet tall. The park's terrain varies from steep slopes to rolling hills. The park, located in Allegan County, is relatively undeveloped. The land for Saugatuck Dunes was acquired in 1971 from the Augustinian Order, who used the buildings as a seminary. When the state took ownership, the structures were used as a prison and state police offices.
The park's major attractions are the long sandy beaches and the 300-acre natural area, which contains a coastal dune system, as well as three endangered plant species. Nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers and hikers are the predominant day users.
Make it your kind of day.
Picnic Area
Near the parking area there is a picnic area with grills and picnic tables. There is a picnic shelter that can be reserved by calling 1-800-447-2757 or visiting www.midnrreservations.com.
Swimming
Saugatuck Dunes State Park has two and a half miles of sandy shore line that is perfect for swimming. There isn't any parking near the beach so you will need to hike the 1.5 mile round trip to the beach.
Hiking
Saugatuck Dunes State Park offers several hiking trails that vary in difficulty.
Beach Trail - 2.5 miles
Livingston Trail - 2.5 miles
North Trail - 2.1 miles
South Trail - 5.2 miles
For more information view the map in the resources section.
Maps & visitor resources.
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