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About
Grand Haven State Park
Nestled on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, Grand Haven State Park showcases scenic views of Grand Haven Pier and lighthouse in front of vibrant sunsets that paint the open sky beyond. It’s not just the slow tide of Lake Michigan that draws people over, nor the perfectly groomed sand beaches. Aside from scenic beauty, Grand Haven State park also offers a host of amenities for campers, and then some. Moreover, the Grand Haven area is home to a number of offbeat attractions nearby which provide entertainment and laughs for the entire family.
One of these notable attractions was built over 60 years ago, known as the Grand Haven Musical Fountain. At one point its claim to fame was its feat as the largest fountain in the world. However, in 1998 Bellagio hotel in Las Vegas stole that record after unveiling The Fountains of Bellagio. All things considered, those who don’t want to make a trip to Vegas will find Grand Haven’s fountain the superior (and less crowded) option. Besides that, the Musical Fountain is still the largest of its kind. Many here would argue that authenticity is more important than size.
Aside from a charming fountain, the area also offers a local boardwalk with live music. It doesn’t stop there though. Outdoor enthusiast will enjoy the many hiking trails that span the park’s 48 acres. Fisherman will love the world-class fishing Lake Michigan is known for. And everyone can enjoy the local shops, eats, and oddities found throughout the city. It goes without saying, finding something to do here is never a problem.
Camping in the Grand Haven State Park is readily accessible, with online reservations available year round. The parks’ acreage rest’s along the western shores of Lake Michigan, and offers a host of lodging options as well. Aside from full service campsites, there are also cabins available for rental throughout. Moreover, there’s also beach sites open for reservation if you’d prefer your own beach getaway during the day. Campsites range from $21-$37/night, while cabins start at $126/night. Be sure to reserve cabins well in advance, as they are an extremely popular amenity for the campground.
If you’re looking for an idealistic vacation getaway, Grand Haven State Park should be a unique spot you consider. Honeymooners, couples, families, and travelers alike will enjoy everything the region offers. All in all, this park is an unexpected delight sure to keep you wanting more over and over again.
Access
Drive In, Walk In, Boat In
Operator
State
Contact
Location
Grand Haven State Park
is located in
Michigan
12 Reviews of Grand Haven State Park
Nice beaches & lots to do
Grand Haven is very busy, so you shouldn't be expecting a quiet retreat when you visit. But the beaches are beautiful and kept clean. It is nice to walk the pier to the lighthouse and there's plenty of shops and restaurants to explore nearby. This area is known for their Coast Guard presence and musical fountain that operates in the summer.
Beautiful Beach
The pier is always fun to go out onto, also great area for walking along the beachhead. The fountain fireworks in July I highly recommend as well. Beaches are usually pretty crowded but still worth it.
DT GH experience
Close to Downtown Grand Haven and boardwalk, on sandy beach of Lake Michigan. Ideal for RV camping. $21-37/night. Cottage available too. Book in advance! End of July-early Aug this small town is packed due to Coast Guard Festival.
Bucket-list checked!
This was a great overall experience. We were right on the canal side and only 300ft away from Lake Michigan. Grand Haven State Parks has upgraded facilities so bathrooms and showering is actually pleasant. Loce this place and will be going back annually.
Lake Michigan Beach Camping
We visited this campground for two nights in June 2018. Spots are tight but we selected one prior to our arrival that would allow us a little more room. We parked on pavement and had sand right outside the back of our camper. Our kids loved that and we did too. Playgrounds are awesome and have lots of room for many kids. There is a lot of beach area at the water. It does get crowded though. The bath house was nice. We used it for showers. There aren’t full hookups, only electricity. Campground was easy to get to and in walking distance to some souvenir shops and restaurants. It’s a great campground for families with children.
Beach camping in a wonderful town.
Grand Haven is a tourist destination. Known for its beautiful beaches, great restaurant’s, and small town shops. The State Park is not at all roughing it but makes up for that in views of sunset and beach front camp sites. Bring your own fire pit if you need a fire. Clean bathroom’s. Walking distance to all the downtown action. Prices can be a bit high during peak summer dates.
Breathtaking!
This is one of the most beautiful State Parks in Michigan-if you haven't been here, please put it on your list!
Great parking lot camping with a view!
This campground is EXTREMELY hard to get into on the weekends. If you are planning a trip to Grand Haven State Park, be sure to log onto the State Reservation site six months to the date that you want to camp. This campground is unique because it is basically a parking lot with site numbers. There are no fire rings and plenty of sand! Be prepared to have lots of sand and dirt in and around your RV! The catwalk on the lighthouse pier is being updated so if you plan on a 2017 trip, you will not be able to go onto the pier to look at the lighthouse up close. I will post pictures from last summer when we camped there so you can see the lighthouse with the catwalk. My son likes to jump off the pier. The pier is usually packed with older kids listening to music and jumping from the pier. This is a hot spot for the locals as well as tourist. Grand Haven is one of my favorite towns and my husband and I have considered moving there in the future. The campground is well kept and the facilities are nice. This is a busy town so be patient and enjoy the town. If you can go during coast guard festival, I recommend it! Also, walk down the boardwalk and visit Barefoot Dave at the Tshirt shop! He is so personable and has awesome tshirts! There is also a place called Pronto Pup and it is basically a deep fried hot dog.. YUMMY!
