After a 10-month closure for major upgrades, Michigan’s most visited state park is officially open again.
According to an article by Detroit Free Press, Ludington State Park, known for its expansive shoreline, towering dunes, and iconic Big Sable Point Lighthouse, welcomed campers back on June 25 — ahead of schedule — following a $2.6 million enhancement project that began late last year.
The park announced its reopening in a Facebook post, thanking contractors and staff for their hard work throughout the closure.
“We are so thankful to all of the contractors and our employees for their amazing work throughout the park while we were closed. … We hope you enjoy the enhancements, and the natural amenities that have been waiting for you,” the park wrote.
Visitors will now experience newly repaved roads, upgraded pedestrian walkways, and improved parking facilities across the park’s nearly 5,300-acre grounds.
These improvements are expected to ease traffic flow and improve safety and accessibility in the high-demand park, which remains a favorite among campers and day-trippers alike.
According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Ludington State Park recorded 47,265 nights camped between October 2022 and September 2023, making it the top campground in the state by overnight stays.
During peak camping season, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, the park reached a remarkable occupancy rate of 94.38%.
With over 300 campsites spread across its Pines, Cedar, and Beechwood campgrounds, the park is a prime destination for families, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
The park’s reopening is a boost not only for travelers but also for Michigan’s broader outdoor recreation economy.
As one of the state’s flagship natural attractions, Ludington plays a vital role in supporting local tourism, outfitter services, and seasonal employment — all fueled by the demand for accessible, well-maintained public lands.
Featured image by DNR Michigan via www.michigan.gov/recsearch/parks/ludington