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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
Paddling is a popular activity on Lake Michigan. Third Coast Surf provides rentals at the north end of beach parking lot 2.
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.
There are five picnic areas located along the main entrance road leading to the beach area.
Enjoy 3 miles of sandy shoreline stretching along Lake Michigan.
The modern campground is divided into two loops. The campground offers a variety of site types and sizes, including shady and sunny, and some are wooded. Recycling is available.
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This semi modern campground is more rustic and offers a relaxing atmosphere. Most sites are sunny and open, while some are wooded and more private. There is no electrical service available. Vault toilets are centrally located in the campground; however, three modern toilet and shower buildings are available for use at the Mt. Randall modern campground, just a five-minute walk away. Recycling is available.
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There are three rustic cabins in Mt. Randall campground. Each cabin sleeps six people and includes two full-size beds and two single bunk beds. You'll find a table, bench seat and ceramic heater. A small deck, picnic table, fire pit and waist-high cook grill (only cooking unit provided) can be found outdoors. The cabins have electricity. You must provide your own linens and cookware.
All three cabins, Pine (site #5), Oak (site #51) and Hemlock (site #65), are in the first loop. Pine and Hemlock cabins are in a more open setting, while the Oak cabin is more shaded with trees.
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This rustic group campground is available for groups up to 100. There are six sites that include picnic table and fire pit. There is a hand pump for water.
To make a reservation, please call the park.
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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.
