Grand Haven State Park Camping Guide

---

History

The land in which the park is situated was not always Michigan State property because it actually resides within the city limits of Grand Haven.

In 1919, the land was purchased and transformed into a public beach by the city. The following year they sold 22 acres of this land, located near the pier, to the state.

After the sale, the city retained any remaining acreage to be used for a city public beach area. In 1920 the state turned its portion into what is now known as Grand Haven State Park.

---

What to Expect When Camping at Grand Haven State Park

Grand Haven State Park camping includes 48 acres of different recreational activities. With a designated swimming area along the beach, a picnic area, a playground, and a beach pavilion, there’s plenty of lakeside fun to be had!

The park sits along the shores of Lake Michigan and offers tons of family fun! From sunbathing on the beach to camping at Grand Haven State Park, there is a little something for the whole family to enjoy.

Pets are allowed to accompany Grand Haven State Park campers, but they aren’t allowed in all areas of the park. You will need to review the guidelines for pet-friendly recreation and ensure that you are following all rules and regulations. Always make sure to clean up after your pets and leave the area as you found it.

Alcohol is not allowed on the property at all.

Fees

A recreation passport is required for entry into all state parks in Michigan and to access other areas such as parking lots, campgrounds, and trails in the park.

Recreation passports vary in cost depending on the vehicle type. Michigan residents with a regular vehicle will pay $13 per year for their passports, with an added $5 fee for those who choose to purchase their passports on the day of their trip.

The fee for this passport is $7 for those entering on motorcycles or mopeds, and there is a commercial option that costs $20 for a day’s entrance.

Michigan State Parks also have guidelines for adjusting camping and other lodging fees, so make sure to give them a read before you head out!

---

Grand Haven State Park Camping

Registration and Access

You will not be granted access to the Grand Haven State Park camping area or any other areas in the park without your recreation passport. You can also purchase it on the day of your trip.

These passports are valid for a year and up to two years if requested. They are valid for all Michigan State Parks.

Campgrounds

Grand Haven Lodge

At this camping location, you will find a 1600-square-foot three-bedroom camping lodge that is available for campers to rent in advance.

Amenities include a modern kitchen with a full-size refrigerator, stove, and microwave. It also has cookware, plates, etc., and a television with a DVD player. Outside, you will find a firepit, a gas grill, and some outdoor furniture.

The lodge is roomy and sleeps up to 8 campers. There is a one-week minimum stay during the warmer months, from May through September, and a two-day minimum for the remainder of the year.

Grand Haven Modern Campgrounds

At this location, there are 174 paved campsites perfect for tent camping or RV camping!

These cozy campsites at Grand Haven State Park are kinda close together, but you will be camping just a few steps from the designated swimming area and beach.

While these sites don’t have firepits because they are so close together, you are allowed to bring your own portable fire pit. If you bring your own firepit, be aware that they are not allowed on the pavement, and they must be at least 6 inches above the sand and be fully enclosed with a provided cover.

---

Grand Haven State Park Camping Recreation

Swimming

Beat the heat on the sandy beaches of Grand Haven State Park at the designated swimming area! Take a dip in the cool waters of Lake Michigan, sunbathe on the white, sandy beach, or play a game of volleyball with the family using the nets provided on the beach.

Fishing

Head down to the pier at the park for some excellent shore fishing! Although there is no boat launch site located within the park, you can find one nearby on Harbor Island.

Enjoy canoeing, kayaking, waterskiing, jet skiing, and so much more when camping at Grand Haven State Park.

Picnicking

Bring along snacks, drinks, and everything you need for a picnic on the beach! You can find picnic tables and a gas grill at the campgrounds, which are only a few steps from the beach.

Hiking

There are no established hiking trails in this park, but as long as the park is open, you are allowed to hike along the beach and other areas.

For those who enjoy cross-country skiing, hiking, and snowshoeing, enjoy the scenic view of the lighthouse pier and shoreline ice while watching the sunset during the winter.

---

Plants and Wildlife

A variety of plant life and wildlife live in this State Park, but the most common attractions are bird watching and exploring the different varieties of trees.

Bird Watching

Grand Haven State Park is home to over 30 different species of bird and waterfowl, including the bald eagle, the peregrine falcon, and swans. See how many you can spot on your hike!

Tree Varieties

You will find hemlock, beech, and oak trees scattered throughout the park on the nature trails and along the campgrounds. Explore the plant life in the park and see how many varieties you can identify!

---

Relax and Unwind Camping at Grand Haven State Park

Enjoy sunbathing on the beach, fishing from the pier, taking a dip in Lake Michigan, and so much more when you are at Grand Haven State Park camping.

Interested in learning about other state parks? Check out the State Park Camping section of our website!