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Warren Dunes State Park

An aerial view of sand dunes, wooded areas and Lake Michigan

Warren Dunes State Park

Warren Dunes State Park provides 1,500 acres of recreational opportunities along the beautiful shore of Lake Michigan. Its rugged dune formation, rising 260 feet above the lake, offers spectacular views and is excellent for hang gliding (permit is required). The park is home to 3 miles of shoreline, 6 miles of hiking trails and two popular campgrounds.

The unofficial gateway to Michigan's state park system from the west, the park is home to an extensive network of richly forested dunes, large open dunes and interdunal wetlands. It also features significant bird diversity because it is a stopover location on a bird migration route.

Amenities & activities

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Modern restrooms Accessible Icon

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Picnic shelter Accessible Icon

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Swimming Accessible Icon

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Alcohol restrictions

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Concessions or store

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Cross-country skiing

hiking

Hiking

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Hunting

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Metal detecting

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Nature programs

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Paddlesport rentals

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Paddling

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Pet-friendly features

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Picnic area

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Recycling

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Sanitation station

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Water access

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Modern restrooms Accessible Icon

There are three accessible bathroom buildings located within the day-use area on the beach. Each bathroom building offers two foot showers and bottle fillers.

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Picnic shelter Accessible Icon

There is a picnic shelter located near the campground that includes picnic tables, charcoal grills, electrical service (reservations only) and vault toilets. Shelter reservations can be made 12 months in advance at MiDNRReservations.com.

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Swimming Accessible Icon

A buoyed swim area is located along the day-use area on Lake Michigan. There are three 100-foot, accessible walkways between the day-use sidewalk and the water (please note the walkway doesn't quite meet the water's edge). There are also two beach/aqua wheelchairs available to borrow at the ranger station.

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Alcohol restrictions

You may not possess or consume an alcoholic beverage in the park April 1 through Sept. 30 (unless the park manager has granted written authorization through an event permit).

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Concessions or store

There are four food trucks (hamburgers, hotdogs, ice cream, tacos and more) located in the beach parking lot May through Labor Day weekend. In addition, food trucks are often open on nice weekends in September too.

cross-country ski trail symbol

Cross-country skiing

hiking

Hiking

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Hunting

Hunting is allowed in the state park; however, you should call this park directly to inquire about any special rules, concerns or considerations.

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Metal detecting

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.

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Nature programs

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.

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Paddlesport rentals

Third Coast Surf rents stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and paddleboats at the north end of beach parking lot 2. Open Monday-Friday 1 to 6 p.m. and Saturday/Sunday noon to 6 p.m., mid-May through Labor Day.

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Paddling

Paddling is a popular activity on Lake Michigan. Third Coast Surf provides rentals at the north end of beach parking lot 2.

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Pet-friendly features

Pets are allowed north of the northernmost swim buoy at the beach, providing 2.5 miles of shoreline open to pets. 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

here are five picnic areas located along the main entrance road leading to the beach area.

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Recycling

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Sanitation station

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Water access

Enjoy 3 miles of sandy shoreline stretching along Lake Michigan.

Stay overnight

Trails & area maps

2000 feet
500 m
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Recreation Passport required

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

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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

Photos