William C. Sterling State Park is the only Michigan state park on Lake Erie, located just a few miles from the Ohio border and approximately an hour from Detroit. The park is situated along 1 mile of sandy shoreline and is home to a modern campground, full-amenity cottages, a boating access site, trails and more. There are plenty of opportunities for shoreline and off-shore fishing.
The park protects more than 500 acres of Great Lakes marsh and restored lake plain prairie habitat and is well known for its access to walleye and perch fisheries.
The River Raisin Heritage Trail connects the park (via the 1-mile River Raisin Heritage (connector) Trail) to downtown Monroe, local parks and trails, and the River Raisin National Battlefield Park.
The 2025 local fireworks display, originally scheduled for July 3, will not take place this year. We understand the disappointment this may cause; however, fundraising efforts for the community-supported fireworks were not successful as in the past.
The beach house is in the day-use area and includes restrooms and changing stalls.
A barrier-free boat launch, located at the north end of the park, accesses Lake Erie. There are 300 vehicle/trailer parking spaces and five skid piers. Modern restrooms and a fish-cleaning station are available.
You may not possess or consume an alcoholic beverage in the day-use areas April 1 through Labor Day (unless the park manager has granted written authorization through an event permit).
JR’s Food Concessions’ food truck is located in the day-use area near the beach house. You’ll find corn dogs, French fries, shaved ice and more.
A fish-cleaning station is located at the boating access site at the north end of the park.
There are plenty of opportunities for shoreline and offshore fishing on Lake Erie and the park's Great Lake marsh and lagoons. The park is well known for its access to walleye and perch fisheries.
Hunting is allowed in the state park; however, you should call this park directly to inquire about any special rules, concerns or considerations.
Metal detecting is allowed in certain park areas. Please consult the park map for designated locations and review applicable regulations. Only registered campers can metal detect in campgrounds.
Seasonal naturalists offer nature-based programming at the park during the summer and/or fall. Check the park's explorer program calendar for dates, locations and topics.
There is an observation platform and viewing tower along the Marsh Trail.
Kayak rentals are available at the campground office Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Paddling is a popular activity on Lake Erie.
The picnic area is in the day-use area and includes picnic tables and charcoal grills that are available first come, first served.
There are two picnic shelters located in the day-use area that include picnic tables, charcoal grills and modern restrooms. Shelter reservations can be made 12 months in advance at MiDNRReservations.com.
A playground is in the day-use area and includes a multi-access swing, a slide, slide ball, bars and more.
The park’s sanitation station is located at the modern campground. There is potable water available and three lanes.
A buoyed swim area is in the park’s day-use area.
A vault toilet is located at the boating access site.
Enjoy about one mile of sandy shoreline stretching along Lake Erie.
Most sites are paved and generous in size, and the majority are within view of Lake Erie and within steps of the sandy shoreline. All sites have either 20- or 30-amp service (50-amp service available on 76 of the sites) and a sanitation station. Recycling is available.
256
Each cottage accommodates seven guests and requires a minimum two-night stay. Enjoy a scenic lake view from your screened-in porch, along with amenities like a queen bedroom, bunk beds, a full bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and a common area with a futon. The kitchen has common cooking essentials such as pots/pans and dishes, a cooktop, microwave and refrigerator.
Bedding linens and towels are not provided; please bring your own.
Please note that there is only one vehicle permitted; however, there is an overflow parking lot in the campground for additional vehicles.
Vista Recreation, a private operator and DNR partner, operates these facilities.
10
While there aren't any upcoming park events listed at this time, you can check out the DNR's calendar of events.
The park also offers weekly nature programs not listed in the online calendar.
