Saugatuck Dunes State Park
Saugatuck, MI
Saugatuck Dunes State Park, north of Saugatuck, keeps its beach about 0.6 miles from the picnic lot, and that short hike does a lot to thin out the crowds. The park has trails through wooded dunes ranging from 2.5 to 5.5 miles. The beach itself is wild and undeveloped, with no concessions.
A wild beach that stays uncrowded even in July, but you have to hike in.
How we score beachesBring a picnic and plenty of water. There's nothing at the beach, and the walk back is uphill.
A Michigan Recreation Passport (or nonresident pass) is required for vehicle entry.
The beach is reached by a 0.6 mile trail over dunes; not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
Even in peak July the hike keeps the beach half empty. In winter the trails are open for cross-country skiing.
More Great Lakes beaches
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New Buffalo City Beach
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Warren Dunes State Park
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