Mears State Park

400 West Lowell Street
Pentwater MI, 49449

231-869-2051
TTY/TDD711 (Michigan Relay Center)

50 (Acres)

Required

Mears State Park, situated along the Lake Michigan shoreline, is known for its stunning sunsets and close proximity to Pentwater.

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Event Information

Explorer Programs: Seasonal naturalists offer weekly nature-based nature programming Memorial Day through Labor Day. View weekly programming calendar (PDF).

More Information

Charles Mears State Park, situated along the sandy Lake Michigan shoreline, is home to a designated swim beach, fishing pier, modern campground, overnight lodge and quarter-mile interpretive trail. The park is best known for its stunning sunsets.

The 50-acre state park is on the north side of the channel connecting Lake Michigan and Pentwater Lake, just steps from the vibrant and laid-back beach town of Pentwater. The town features an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants and a Village Green.

On nice summer days, it’s recommended that you arrive early because the parking lot can reach capacity during the afternoon. There's no lighthouse in or visible from the park.

The existing park land was once owned by Charles Mears, an early settler of Pentwater. The land was donated to the State of Michigan in 1923 by Carrie Mears, the daughter of Charles Mears.

Park staff can be reached via email at DNR-MearsStatePark@michigan.gov

Campgrounds

Mears-Dune Grass Villa Lodge
231-869-2051
(1)
Mears-Hybrid camper
231-869-2051
(1)
Mears-Modern Campground
800-447-2757
(175)

Trails

Mears-Old Baldy Interpretive Trail
Trail Length: 0.25 (Miles)

About the Area

View Online Visitor's Guide.

The park is just steps from the vibrant and laid-back beach town of Pentwater. Visit Pentwater.org, for info on local area events, the local community and more.

Activities (Display as List)

Fishing Item is accessible.
Fishing: Fishing is popular from the accessible pier.
Hiking Item is accessible.
Hiking: There’s a popular, quarter-mile, self-guided nature trail in the park.
Metal Detecting Item is accessible.
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.
Nature Programs Item is accessible.
Nature Programs: Seasonal naturalists offer weekly nature-based nature programming Memorial Day through Labor Day. View weekly programming calendar (PDF).
Paddlesports Item is accessible.
Paddlesports: Paddling is popular along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Pet-Friendly Area Item is accessible.
Pet-Friendly Area: A pet-friendly beach is located at the south end of the park. Pets must always be on a 6-foot leash and under an owner’s immediate control. All pet waste must be properly disposed of in trash receptacles.
Swimming Item is accessible.
Swimming:

A designated swim beach is situated along Lake Michigan. There are two accessible walkways to the water and a beach wheelchair available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis.

Please be mindful of Great Lakes beach safety. Pay attention to the beach flag warning system in designated swim areas; red flags indicate the water is unsafe and no one should swim in or enter the water. DO NOT swim near or jump off break walls or navigational channel walls, and pay attention to changing conditions.

WiFi Item is accessible.
WiFi: Free WiFi is available throughout the modern campground.

Facilities (Display as List)

Beach House Item is accessible.
Beach House: The beach house is in the day-use area and includes restrooms, changing courts and a park store that sells food, concessions, firewood, ice and more.
Cabins & Lodges Item is accessible.
Cabins & Lodges
Concession/ Store Item is accessible.
Concession/ Store: Simple Adventures, located in the beach house, sells food, merchandise, firewood, ice and more.
Fishing Pier Item is accessible.
Fishing Pier: There is an accessible fishing pier located at the south end of the park.
Modern Restrooms Item is accessible.
Modern Restrooms
Picnic Area Item is accessible.
Picnic Area: Picnic table and charcoal grills – available first come, first served – can be found throughout the day-use area near the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Playground Item is accessible.
Playground: An accessible playground featuring slides, bars and swings is in the day-use area. It all sits on a rubberized surface that makes access easier for those of all mobility levels.
Sanitation Station Item is accessible.
Sanitation Station: The park’s sanitation station is located at the entrance of the campground. There is potable water available and two lanes.
Water Access Item is accessible.
Water Access:

Enjoy a quarter mile of sandy shoreline stretching along Lake Michigan.

Please be mindful of Great Lakes beach safety. Pay attention to the beach flag warning system in designated swim areas; red flags indicate the water is unsafe and no one should swim in or enter the water. DO NOT swim near or jump off break walls or navigational channel walls, and pay attention to changing conditions.