Ludington State Park (Michigan) is set to welcome back outdoor enthusiasts a week earlier than initially projected as its largest campground, the Beechwood Campground, reopens following a renovation project.
The 147-site campground, a favorite among visitors for its prime location on the east side of the park near Hamlin Lake, will be available for reservations starting June 23, a full week ahead of the original June 30 reopening date.
The extensive modernization project was initially launched at the beginning of the Michigan camping season and was funded with $2.2 million by the Parks and Recreation Division Capital Outlay of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
The project involved the replacement of two bathroom buildings and a significant upgrade to the electrical system in a bid to enhance visitor experiences.
Despite being a “holdover project” from 2022, initially slated for completion by Memorial Day 2022, the refurbishment faced some challenges.
Delayed construction timelines led to a temporary halt of operations in June 2022, allowing the campground to reopen for the summer season. The project was then revived in the fall of 2022 under the stewardship of a new contractor.
With Ludington State Park boasting seven miles of sandy shoreline along Lake Michigan and a charming beach at the 5,000-acre Hamlin Lake, the summer season is looking more appealing for those seeking the tranquility and adventure of the great outdoors.
The Beechwood Campground, renowned for its modern amenities and large shaded sites nestled among towering trees, is part of a troika of campgrounds at Ludington State Park.
The Pines and Cedar campgrounds have already opened their gates to eager campers, contributing to the park’s total of 352 campsites.
As summer sets in, the early reopening of Beechwood Campground is indeed a boon for the park’s regular patrons and first-time visitors alike. It is a testament to the park’s commitment to providing top-notch facilities for those who love to explore and relax in Michigan’s stunning natural landscapes.
For updates on state park closures, the DNR posts information on the first non-holiday Monday of each month at Michigan.gov/DNRClosures.
The early reopening of Beechwood Campground is a promising sign of an eventful summer packed with adventure and exploration in the scenic environs of Ludington State Park.