MLive says: “Where do we even start with Muskegon State Park? We would challenge you to find a park that is as equally awesome during the winter and summer. There is a beautiful Lake Michigan beach that simply doesn't get as much attention as some of the other Lake Michigan beaches. If a view of the Big Lake wasn't enough, you'll also find access to Muskegon Lake. There are forested dunes to explore and plenty of trails. There are two campgrounds with summer and winter camping (plus, a yurt!). If that wasn't enough, the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex makes this the ultimate winter destination, offering ice skating, sledding, cross-country skiing and even the most publicly accessible luge track in the United States.”
July 21, 2019
I spent my time at Muskegon State Park on the beach, as it was a hot and sunny afternoon. My favorite part of any Lake Michigan beach is a gorgeous dune, so naturally that’s where I gravitated.
The MLive article is totally right: Muskegon is a sprawling State Park with tons to do, and I only saw a small fraction of the park on this particular Sunday. The beach isn’t nearly as busy as other West Michigan beaches like Holland or Grand Haven, making it a perfect afternoon getaway.
I spent my time hiking dunes, swimming, and napping on the beach: my ideal Sunday.
Watching seagulls and butterflies lazily riding lake breezes and bop around milkweed plants made me feel very relaxed, and the lack of a huge crowd made this a genuinely enjoyable afternoon on the beach.
Muskegon State Park would be a gorgeous stop in the fall, and I plan to return in the winter to visit the Winter Sports Complex (that’s been on my list for a few years, so this year I’ll actually make the time to go). Keep an eye out for Muskegon Pt. 2 and Pt. 3!
After about 4 hours in the park/on the beach, my stomach started howling for dinner; I packed up and made my way back to Grand Rapids with sandy feet and the relaxation that can only be achieved with an afternoon on the big lake.