Saugatuck Dunes State Park is a day use Michigan State Park along a secluded strip of Lake Michigan shoreline. The park was named for the freshwater coastal dunes that are over 200 feet tall. At 1,000 acres with 13 miles of hiking and 2.5 miles of shoreline, there is plenty to explore. The Lake Michigan beach is a 0.6-mile hike from the picnic and parking area along the Beaches Trail. The North, Livingston, and South trails all include segements with steep inclines that can be quite sandy, which makes the climb more challenging. The reward for the effort are magnificent vistas of the surrounding dunes and the aqua waters of Lake Michigan.
The park, located in Allegan County, is relatively undeveloped. Two pit toilets are available in the paved parking area. A small picnic shelter is available, as are a handful of picnic tables located in the center of the parking lot. Potable water is also available via a hand pump in the parking area.
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. Leashed dogs are allowed throughout the park and on the beach. Children and adults alike will enjoy exploring the beach and, if weather permits, playing in the water. There are no lifegaurds present.
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