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6 Michigan Sand Dunes You Should See
You're visiting the Mitten State, but what do you prioritize during your vacation? This summer, make it a point to visit the stunning Michigan sand dunes.
Sand dunes can be found along the Western Michigan coast, with many overlooking Lake Michigan. These windswept formations can be hiked, and some are even open to off-road vehicles.
Several of our RV resorts are also located near Michigan's sand dunes. Check out our recommendations below, book your stay, and prepare for a visit to the Midwest's "pleasant peninsula."
Visit These 6 Michigan Sand Dunes This Summer
1. Sleeping Bear Dunes
Glen Arbor, MI
The most famous of all Michigan sand dunes is Sleeping Bear Dunes. These sandy bluffs rise 450 feet above Lake Michigan, offering spectacular views of the forest and water.
You'll certainly enjoy climbing the dunes, but don't miss out on the other activities. Some other options include taking a ferry to the Manitou Islands, touring the South Manitou Island Lighthouse, or sunbathing on Lake Michigan beaches.
Sleeping Bear Dunes is within a two-hour drive of two resorts. Sun Outdoors Petoskey Bay Harbor and Petoskey KOA both offer options for camping amidst the natural beauty of northwestern Michigan.
2. Silver Lake Sand Dunes
Mears, MI
Ranking second to Sleeping Bear Dunes is Silver Lake State Park. These dunes have a dedicated scramble for off-road vehicles (ORVs). Amazingly, these are the only dunes east of the Mississippi open to ORVs!
Along with the ORV scramble, Silver Lake State Park has hiking trails and Lake Michigan beaches. Plus, it's just down the street from Sun Retreats Silver Lake . With RV sites, vacation rentals, and family amenities, Silver Creek is an ideal place to stay while exploring Michigan's sand dunes.
3. Saugatuck Dunes
Saugatuck, MI
Stretching along 2.5 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, Saugatuck Dunes State Park is a fantastic Western Michigan destination. You can traverse four trails across the dunes, enjoying beautiful views of the water and beaches.
If you prefer mountain biking, visit the adjacent Shore Acres Township Park. This natural area has a 2-mile mountain bike trail, as well as a disc golf course.
Saugatuck Dunes State Park is 33 miles west of Sun Retreats Gun Lake . Book a stay at our resort in Hopkins, Michigan for easy access to Saugatuck, Grand Rapids, and Kalamazoo.
4. Warren Dunes
Sawyer, MI
Located in southwestern Michigan, Warren Dunes State Park is a gorgeous space along Lake Michigan. The dunes rise 260 feet above the lake and are a popular launching spot for hang gliders.
Additionally, Warren Dunes State Park is along a major bird migration route. Birdwatchers will delight in the diverse wildlife as they stroll the dunes and hike the trails.
Don't forget to check out other birding hotspots in North America too!
5. Arcadia Dunes
Arcadia, MI A major preserve in the Grand Traverse Region, Arcadia Dunes is a stunning spot in northwestern Michigan. Here you'll have the chance to trek more than 15 miles of trails that cross dunes and enter forests.
The most popular spot at Arcadia Dunes is the Overlook Trail. This begins at the Baldy parking lot and offers a short hike to a beautiful view of Lake Michigan.
Here are some other popular trails in the preserve:
- Camp Trail (multi-use)
- Dry Hills Trails (multi-use)
- Baldy Trails (hiking)
- Pete's Wood (hiking)
6. Laketown Beach
Holland, MI Rounding our list of the best Michigan sand dunes is Laketown Beach. Located a couple miles southwest of Holland, Laketown Beach is similar to Saugatuck Dunes, though smaller.
You can park and climb up and over the dunes to find a long wooden staircase. This staircase winds down the dunes to Lake Michigan below. While it's a slight trek, the pristine beach at the bottom is worth the effort.
Next time you're in the Mitten State, make it a priority to visit the beautiful Michigan sand dunes. From the southwest to the northwest, you'll find sand dunes all along the Lake Michigan shoreline, some even near our resorts! Come, visit, and don't forget to share this post with your travel buddies.
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