Scedules for other nature programs

Known for its miles of sandy beaches and sand dunes on Lake Michigan, Ludington State Park is home to the Great Lakes Visitor Center.

The visitor center focuses on the geological and human history of the Great Lakes, along with the diverse life forms found in the park. In addition to exhibits depicting the Great Lakes,
there are displays that tell of Ludington State Park's early history and the unique resources that you can see in the park today.

Tour the Center

A popular attraction, the visitor center offers exhibits, numerous audio-visual presentations, a gift shop and daily interpretive programs for children and adults. One of the more popular hands-on exhibits is "Night Visitors," featuring taxidermy mounts of nocturnal animals common to the area. A huge satellite map of the Great Lakes covers an entire wall. Nearby, there are large three-dimensional depth maps of all the Great Lakes. The air-conditioned auditorium serves visitors with the relaxing view of a spectacular multi-image slide show and several award-winning videos.

Location and Hours

The Great Lakes Visitor Center is located on the south side of the Sable River and just minutes from the campgrounds and beaches. The building is universally accessible.

The center is open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., during the summer months. Spring and fall hours include weekends and some afternoons. For information, call (231) 843-9261.

School Programs

Interpretive programs for school groups are held during the fall, winter and spring. These programs include outdoor activities, so students are asked to dress appropriately for the weather. Educators and group leaders should click here to begin planning their visit to the Great Lakes Visitor Center.

Teachers may select from seven available programs. Click here to review each course description, plus goals and objectives, and alignment with the Michigan Curriculum Framework. The School Program Reservation Form may be printed and e-mailed to the Ludington State Park interpreter or used when calling (231) 843-9261 to make the reservation.

Tour Big Sable Point Lighthouse

Friends of Ludington State Park

Friends of Ludington State Park is a voluntary association whose mission is to promote the protection, preservation, enhancement, proper management and wise use of the lands, waters and facilities of Ludington State Park. The group maintains the center's gift shop and sponsors various interpretive and volunteer activities at the park. For more information, visit the group's Web site www.ludingtonfriends.com, or write to: Friends of Ludington State Park, P.O. Box 709, Ludington, MI 49341.