Nestled along Lake Michigan's picturesque shoreline, Van Buren State Park boasts towering dunes, a pristine sandy beach and lush woodland trails. The park is home to a campground, buoyed swim area, a picnic area, trails and much more.
From the park, visitors can access the Van Buren State Park Spur Trail, which offers a scenic, 4-mile paved route into the City of South Haven. Along the way, visitors can access Van Buren Trail State Park (gravel surface) near 16th Avenue and continue on an additional 12 miles (south) to the City of Hartford. The Kal-Haven Trail State Park connects in South Haven and provides 33.5 miles of additional trail.
The state's parks and recreation system includes Van Buren State Park, Van Buren Trail State Park and Van Buren spur trail. They are often confused.
A beach house in the day-use area includes restrooms and vending machines.
You may not possess or consume an alcoholic beverage in the park's day-use areas and designated swim beach April 1 through Labor Day (unless the park manager has granted written authorization through an event permit).
From the park, visitors can access Van Buren Trail State Park via a 2.5-mile paved spur trail. A 2-mile section of the trail between the city of South Haven and 16th Avenue is paved and suitable for bicycles. A 12-mile, undeveloped section of trail between 16th Avenue and the city of Hartford is an unimproved gravel surface and more suitable for mountain bikes.
Hunting is allowed in the state park; however, you should call the park directly to ask about any special rules, concerns or considerations.
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.
Pets are welcome on most of the Lake Michigan shoreline, except for the buoyed swim area. Additionally, a pet-friendly beach area – located south of the swim area – can be found trails west of the picnic shelter. 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.
The picnic area, located in the day-use area, includes picnic tables and charcoal grills that are available first come, first served. Modern restrooms are located nearby.
There is a picnic shelter located in the day-use area that includes picnic tables, charcoal grills, an electrical outlet and a modern restroom. Shelter reservations can be made 12 months in advance at MIDNRReservations.com.
There are two small play areas, including swings and a slide, in the day-use area.
A buoyed swim area is located immediately west of the middle day-use parking lot that includes a modern restroom, accessible parking area and beach mat at west end. (not considered accessible due to steep grade to the water).
Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, Van Buren State Park is home to 1 mile of sandy beach.
The modern campground is divided into five loops. Most sites are generous in size with a mix of shaded and sunny sites. Campers can reach the day-use area, set along the Lake Michigan shoreline, via a walking path that's centrally located in the campground. There are two modern restroom/shower buildings and a children's play area.
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This rustic campground is located just outside the modern campground and is available for youth organizations accompanied by adults. A youth/adult ratio of 4:1 determines eligibility as a youth group. Generally speaking, youth should be 16 years of age or younger; however, high school-sponsored groups can included youth up to 18 years of age.
The campground area includes two adjoining rustic sites with a combined capacity of 50 people. Each site provides picnic tables, fire pits, vault toilets and potable 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.
