Ludington State Park and Campgrounds — Hotel in Hamlin Township

A Memorable Stay at Ludington State Park and Cedar Campground

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)

My wife and I recently had the pleasure of staying overnight at Ludington State Park's Cedar Campground, and it was an experience we won't soon forget. This state park, often heralded as one of the most popular in the Midwest, truly offers a vacation within itself, with an array of natural wonders and activities to enjoy.

Campground Experience (Cedar Campground): ★★★★★ (5/5)

We made our reservations online through the state website, and the process was seamless. Upon our arrival, we were pleased to find that our site, while electric-only, was well-suited for our 36-foot RV. The late arrival was no hassle at all, thanks to easy access to Cedar Campground.

The campground itself is nestled between Beechwood and Pines campgrounds and offers a range of amenities that made our stay comfortable. There are 110 modern sites with electricity, and for those who prefer a more rustic experience, eight tent-only sites without electricity are also available. The presence of mini-cabins, modern showers, and restrooms added to the convenience factor. We couldn't have asked for more.

Park Exploration: ★★★★★ (5/5)

What truly sets Ludington State Park apart is its diverse range of activities. With over 18 miles of trails, visitors can choose from leisurely 30-minute walks to more vigorous 3-hour hikes. We took a hike and were rewarded with stunning vistas and the chance to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the woodlands, water, and dunes that surround the park.

Conclusion: ★★★★★ (5/5)

Our stay at Ludington State Park's Cedar Campground was fantastic. From the well-maintained campground to the abundance of activities within the park, we couldn't have asked for a more enjoyable getaway. Whether you're an RV enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a fun-filled vacation, this state park has something for everyone.

We highly recommend Ludington State Park and Cedar Campground to anyone looking for a memorable outdoor adventure. Don't miss the chance to experience the beauty and excitement that this Midwest gem has to offer. We can't wait to return for another visit!

Thomas...

I LOVED this park, I can easily see why so many families have been coming every year for decades. There is so much to do, biking, swimming, boating, fishing, TONS of hiking! I wish we had stayed longer, you could stay a week and do something different every day.

We stayed in the Cedar campground, which is the middle of the three modern campgrounds. Next time I would love to stay at Beachwood, but it's the most popular and hardest to get into. We had almost no T-Mobile coverage at Cedar, but I think it could be possible there is coverage at Beachwood, especially in the northern section without the high dunes. I definitely had good coverage hiking the Island and Lost Lake trails, which Beachwood is closest to. I'd love to see if it would be possible to work remotely here...

There is a big range of difficulty on the hiking trails, some have some pretty steep slopes with loose sand, so you will want good footwear. Bikes are limited to the paved trail around the river by the campgrounds, and the gravel/sand trail to the lighthouse (it also goes to the rustic hike in camping area). That trail is mostly OK for biking but there are a few areas with loose sand where we got off and walked our bikes for a short ways. It might be OK if you have fat tires, but it's probably too difficult for kids unless they are really good riders. The lighthouse is nice, with a gift shop, a tour with an option to climb the tower, and also you can use the sandy beach around it.

There is one pet beach, which is on the Lake Michigan side, near the river mouth.

There is a camp store in the Cedar campground, which sells ice cream, souvenirs, and camping supplies.

I definitely want to come back...

Our family loves camping... well 'Glamping'... since I haven't done the tent and sleeping bag thing since I was a teenager. That said I think it's a fantastic, affordable way to make memories with your tribe. Michigan has plenty of state parks - most average $30 a night with electrical hookups and shower/bathroom facilities that are usually in good order (and much needed if you don't want the kids to stink up your camper, haha... I won't complain (too much!) Ludington has without a doubt some of the nicest beaches and parks around the state but it's SUPER crowded. Like I mean REEEEALY crowded depending on what part of the park you're staying in. I've camped out at a few concerts though the years - and it's about like that - camping in a parking lot. To be fair, I've enjoyed meeting 99% of the people we camp next to - but it's crazy busy. There are plenty of lesser traveled parks that are just as nice and less 'bumper to bumper' that I would recommend over Ludington - plus if you need lighter fluid, beer - or anything - it's a looooooong way to downtown. (or civilization in general) 6 out of 10 (oh also bring money to see any of the lighthouses or attractions IN the state park) we walked about 4 miles, dragging 3 little kids and a dog (and the mother-in-law) only to find out that we needed money if we wanted to walk to the top of an old light house... Why would I bring money on a hiking trail michigan DnR?!? haha - seriously, bring money on a...