Saugatuck Dunes State Park

6575 138th Ave.
Saugatuck Dunes MI, 49453

269-637-2788
TTY/TDD711 (Michigan Relay Center)

1000 (Acres)

Required

This day-use park stretches along 2.5 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and features coastal dunes over 200 feet tall. There are four trails that provide access to the water.
Tell Us About Your Visit

More Information

Saugatuck Dunes State Park is home to 2.5 miles of sandy Lake Michigan shoreline, coastal dunes, forested areas, 13 miles of trails and the 300-acre Patty Birkholz Natural Area.

Four trails take visitors over rolling terrain and sandy trails to Lake Michigan. The .75-mile, one-way Beach Trail (yellow markers) is the shortest route.

The park’s 300-acre Patty Birkholz Natural Area contains a coastal dune system and three endangered plant species, and stands as a testament to environmental champion and former state Sen. Birkholz’s legacy of love and commitment to the coastal dune system.

The Felt Estate and the Shore Acres Township Park are located adjacent to the park and feature a 2-mile mountain bike trail, a disc golf course and other complementary outdoor recreation opportunities.

Trails

Saugatuck Dunes-Beach Trail (Yellow)
Trail Length: 1.50 (Miles)
Saugatuck Dunes-Livingston Trail (Red)
Trail Length: 2.50 (Miles)
Saugatuck Dunes-North Trail (White)
Trail Length: 2.50 (Miles)
Saugatuck Dunes-South Trail (Blue)
Trail Length: 5.50 (Miles)

About the Area

There are a number of restaurants, shops and art galleries located throughout the Saugatuck and Douglas community.

Activities (Display as List)

Cross-Country Skiing Item is accessible.
Cross-Country Skiing
Hiking Item is accessible.
Hiking
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 natural and cultural resources in Michigan state parks nor violate applicable state statutes. This park map clearly shows where this activity is allowed to take place. Any items found must be reviewed by park staff and may be retained for further investigation. Areas located within the campground are limited to registered campers only.
Pet-Friendly Area Item is accessible.
Pet-Friendly Area: Pets are allowed along the entire length of the Lake Michigan shoreline. Pets must always be on a six-foot leash and under an owner’s immediate control. All pet waste must be properly disposed of in trash receptacles.
Snowshoeing Item is accessible.
Snowshoeing

Facilities (Display as List)

Picnic Shelter Item is accessible.
Picnic Shelter: A picnic shelter includes picnic tables, a charcoal grill and a vault toilet. Shelter reservations can be made 12 months in advance by calling the park at 269-637-2788.
Vault Toilet Item is accessible.
Vault Toilet
Water Access Item is accessible.
Water Access:

Enjoy 2.5 miles of sandy shoreline stretching along Lake Michigan. Please note: Due to recent high water levels and shoreline erosion, please use caution when recreating at or near the sand dunes. Do not dig into a vertical sand dune, as it can collapse without warning.

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.