Photo by Craig Sterken
What’s a favorite activity for Hamlin Lake area residents and visitors? With so many things to do, it’s nearly impossible to list them all but one of the favorite pastimes has to be canoeing along the beautiful shoreline of Hamlin Lake.
Within the Ludington State Park, canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts love the Hamlin Lake Canoe Trail- a marked waterway which makes for a wonderful 2-4 hour diversion. The time needed to traverse the trail depends upon skill level and weather conditions, but the 2-4 hour estimate is typical under most circumstances. You can travel the waters by yourself, or take advantage of the guided canoe trips offered through Dune Grass Concessions. A Michigan DNR interpretive specialist will explain the flora, fauna, and history of the area. For more information, call (231) 843-1888.
The Hamlin Lake Canoe Pathway begins and ends at the Hamlin Lake Watercraft Rental/Dune Grass Concessions area near the swimming beach. At the concession you can rent paddle boats, canoes, kayaks, tandem kayaks, stand up paddle boards, and rowboats. Once you have your watercraft, you can cross the river and head into Hamlin Lake. As you travel close to the south shore, you’ll enjoy a variety of landscapes, from a swampy area filled with reeds and cattails, to the “Carp Ponds,” named for the many carp that spawn there in the spring. Within the marshlands along the trail is an excellent habitat for duck, geese, herons, and others.
Near the beginning of the Hamlin Lake Canoe Trail you’ll encounter two large, sandy hills, known as Desperation Point. Local sailors gave it this name because of the unpredictable shifting winds found there. The trail is not demanding for a canoeist with minimal experience, but care should be taken to avoid various submerged tree stumps. Ask about guided canoe trips, where a Michigan DNR interpretive specialist explains the flora, fauna, and history of the area.
Hamlin Lake is a beautiful 5,000 acre water paradise just north of Ludington in West Michigan! Read the stories below or go to the Hamlin Lake destination page.
Take a paddle down the Hamlin Lake Canoe Trail. Venture out on the trip yourself, or join a guided trip lead by Dune Grass Concessions.
Read about the mighty dam that lives in Hamlin Lake, how it came to be and how it is utilized to help protect this man-made lake.
The Hamlin Lake Beach within the Ludington State Park is fun for the whole family! With a dedicated, weed-free swimming area and more!
Cast your line into Upper Hamlin Lake or enjoy a picnic, the playground, or watch Hamlin Lake's Independence Fireworks at Wilson Hill Park.
If there's one thing that Hamlin Lake is known for, it's excellent fishing. Catch crappie, bluegill, and more across thousands of acres.
With some of the best fishing and boating around, Hamlin Lake brings much delight as well as some of the most beautiful, scenic backdrops.
Enjoy this small, relaxing park as an easy place to place your boat in the water or throw a line out to catch some pan fish for dinner.
The Michigan DNR has announced that Ludington State Park will be closed from September 3rd, 2024-July 1st, 2025 for improvements.
Enjoy a picnic by Upper Hamlin Lake. With grills, a pavilion and picnic tables available, this park provides the perfect family setting.
Hamlin Lake is home to several parks and numerous dunes for exploration and leisure. Pack a picnic, cast your line, and enjoy the sites.
Read about the history of Hamlin Lake, when it was created, and the major role this lake played in the milling industry in Ludington.
Long Skinny Park is located on Lower Hamlin Lake between the South and Middle bayous. Perfect for fishing or taking in the view.
Small destinations within themselves, visitors of Hamlin Lake will go on an adventure to find their perfect dune.
Explore Hamlin Lake by boat, and you'll see why Hamlin Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Michigan. Over 5,000 acres, pure enjoyment!
Mason County is home to several trails that tell stories with fascinating histories. Explore these self-guided tours to learn about each one!
The Music Heritage Trail will take you from Idlewild to Baldwin and from Scottville to Ludington as it explores the historic music scene!
Enjoy an afternoon drive around the Ludington area in October and fill your senses with the vibrant colors of fall.
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The black-and-white striped, 112 foot lighthouse at the Ludington State Park stands proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Cast your line into Upper Hamlin Lake or enjoy a picnic, the playground, or watch Hamlin Lake’s Independence Fireworks at Wilson Hill Park.
Arrive in Ludington by boat and dock at one of three marinas: Ludington Municipal Marina, Harbor View Marina, & Pere Pointe Village Marina.
Within the downtown Ludington region, several murals grace the façades of local area businesses, telling stories of the area’s rich history.
The bronzed sculptures in Ludington’s 5-acre Waterfront Park sets it apart from other parks. The park is situated on the Lake Michigan inlet.
The three accessible walkways installed at Stearns Park Beach in Ludington allow everyone to make their way to the water and sand.
There are so many things to see and do in Ludington! Don’t miss a single activity during your visit by exploring VisitLudington.com!
Putt putt for a purpose by visiting the Ludington Area Jaycees Mini Golf Course in Stearns Park, right on Lake Michigan.
Long Skinny Park is located on Lower Hamlin Lake between the South and Middle bayous. Perfect for fishing or taking in the view.
Visit the new Value of Sports Museum located at Historic White Pine Village just a short drive from Ludington.
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