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Charles Mears State Park

birds eye view of campground and water

Charles Mears State Park

Nestled on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, Charles Mears State Park is a 50-acre gem boasting a buoyed swim beach, fishing pier, campground, lodge and interpretive trail. Renowned for its stunning sunsets, the park offers a peaceful retreat just steps from the charming town of Pentwater.

As a gift to the state in 1923, the park's land was once owned by Charles Mears, a founding member of the Pentwater community.

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.

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


The park is 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. Visit Pentwater.org.

Amenities & activities

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Concessions or store Accessible Icon

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Fishing pier Accessible Icon

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Modern restrooms Accessible Icon

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Playground Accessible Icon

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Beach house

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EV fast-charging station

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Fishing

hiking

Hiking

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Metal detecting

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Paddling

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Pet-friendly features

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Picnic area

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Sanitation station

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Swimming

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Water access

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Concessions or store Accessible Icon

Simple Adventures, located in the beach house, sells food, merchandise, firewood, ice and more.

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Fishing pier Accessible Icon

There is an accessible fishing pier located at the south end of the park.

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Modern restrooms Accessible Icon

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Playground Accessible Icon

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.

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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.

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EV fast-charging station

There are free, self-pay EV fast-charging stations in the park.

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Fishing

Fishing is popular from the accessible pier.

hiking

Hiking

There’s a popular, quarter-mile, self-guided nature trail in the park.

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Metal detecting

The entire park is open to metal detecting. Please review applicable regulations. Only registered campers can metal detect in campgrounds.

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Paddling

Paddling is popular along the Lake Michigan shoreline.

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Pet-friendly features

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.

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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.

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Sanitation station

The park’s sanitation station is located at the entrance of the campground. There is potable water available and two lanes.

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Swimming

A buoyed swim area 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.

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Water access

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

Stay overnight

Trails & area maps

Recreation Passport required

A Recreation Passport (park pass) is required for vehicle entry into all state park and forest campgrounds.

Recreate Responsibly

Keep yourself, your friends and family, and the outdoors safe.

Great Lakes beach safety

Stay safe. These powerful bodies of water have dangerous currents.

Visitor's guide

Find additional area information, maps and more.

Rules, rates, dates

General state park rules, rates & operating dates, reservations & cancellations, camping rules and more.

Upcoming events

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.

Photos