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Michigan State Parks

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Hoffmaster State Park
Hoffmaster State Park © healthiermi / CC BY-SA 2.0
Hoffmaster State Park © healthiermi / CC BY-SA 2.0
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HOFFMASTER STATE PARK
HOFFMASTER STATE PARK
6585 Lake Harbor Road
Muskegon, Michigan   49441

Phone: 231-798-3711
Reservations: 800-447-2757
1,100 acres of forest covered sand dunes along three miles of Lake Michigan sandy beach. Located in a wooded valley are 293 shaded campsites, picnicking, swimming, ten miles of hiking trails, snowshoeing. A marked three mile cross-country trail requiring intermediate skill is available. The Gillette Visitor Center provides interpretations of dune ecology. Metal detecting area.
Passes
The Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. Details and information on how to obtain your Michigan Recreation Passport can be found by visiting the MICHIGAN RECREATION PASSPORT web page.
Visitors Center
E Genevieve Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center This beautiful facility, facing a towering sand dune, is recognized as one of the top attractions in the Midwest. The center has a variety of programs to help visitors enjoy and understand the unique environment of the sand dunes of the Great Lakes. The center features an exhibit hall depicting the ecological zones of the unique dune environment. Multimedia presentations on the dunes and seasonal nature subjects are shown in an 82-seat auditorium. Seasonal exhibits also are featured. The center is open daily, except Mondays, from Memorial Day to November 1. It is closed from December 1 to January 15. During November and from January 15 to Memorial Day, the center is open Tuesday through Saturday and closed on Sundays and Mondays. For hours and more information call 231-798-3573.
Camping
Hoffmaster-Group Use Area(231) 798-3711 2 site(s), Contact the ParkGroup Use Area, Rustic Site, Vault Toilet

Hoffmaster-Modern(800) 447-2757 293 site(s)Campsites with 50 amp Service, Electrical Service, Modern Restrooms, Playground
Swimming
1. Hoffmaster State Park offers a sandy beach along Lake Michigan for swimming during warm months.
2. Lifeguards are not provided, so swim at your own risk.
3. The park's three miles of shoreline offer ample space to spread out and enjoy the water safely.
4. Swimming is free with paid admission into the state park; no additional fees apply for access to the beach area.
5. There are restrooms and changing facilities near the main beach area for convenience after swimming activities.

Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There is no boat launch within the park, but nearby launches are available at Muskegon State Park and Grand Haven City Beach. Kayaking is popular along Lake Michigan shoreline or in smaller inland lakes close to the area. Canoeing can also be enjoyed on these waters as well as local rivers such as Little Black Creek and Pigeon River.
Fishing
Anglers can enjoy fishing in the freshwater lake, home to species like bass, pike and perch. The park also offers ice fishing during winter months for enthusiasts seeking a unique experience. Additionally, trout are abundant in local streams providing another option for fishermen.


Location
Hoffmaster State Park is located near Allendale, Grand Haven and Muskegon

Picnicking
Fire pits/grills available. The picnic shelter is reservable, for more information contact the park.
Cross-country Skiing
A marked three-mile trail is available for this winter activity.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts should note that the park does not offer dedicated biking trails. Caution is advised while exploring.

While cycling isn't prohibited, it's restricted to campground roads and parking lots only for safety reasons.

Remember, riding on hiking or skiing trails could damage them and disturb wildlife habitats - please respect these rules.

Be aware of pedestrians as well since they share the same routes with cyclists in this area.

Always wear a helmet when bicycling here; your safety is paramount amidst vehicular traffic within campgrounds and parking areas.

Cyclists are urged to be mindful of their surroundings due to occasional vehicle movement around camping sites and car parks.
Trails
With more than 10 miles of trails, the casual hiker or the serious student of nature will find a variety of interesting natural features. Upland, shoreline and aquatic birds are abundant. Hawks soar on the air currents of the dunes when winds are from the east. A main attraction is the Dune Climb Stairway leading to the top of a high sand dune. There, an observation deck offers a panoramic view of the dunes and Lake Michigan.

Hofflmaster-Walk-a-MileTrail Length: 1.00 (Miles)Hiking

Hoffmaster-Dune OverlookTrail Length: 1.00 (Miles)Hiking

Hoffmaster-Homestead TrailTrail Length: 3.00 (Miles)Cross Country Ski, Hiking
Nature Programs
Throughout the year, the visitor center offers lectures, guided hikes and special events. Program information is available from the center. Schools may take advantage of visitor center programs during the school year. A classroom, complete with seasonal teaching displays, is available. Orientation programs are offered to first-time groups. Environmental topics are taught by the visitor center staff on a limited basis. Classes include a guided outdoor experience. Groups are limited to 35 students.
Birding
The park offers diverse birding opportunities with over 338 species recorded. Birdwatchers can explore three marked trails, each offering different habitats and bird varieties. The Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center provides educational programs about local avian life throughout the year. Spring migration is a particularly good time to visit for spotting warblers and other migratory birds.
Area Attractions
P.J. Hoffmaster State Park features forest-covered dunes along nearly three miles of Lake Michigan shore. Its sandy beach is one of the finest anywhere. A focal point of the park is the Gillette Visitor Center.

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Area Campgrounds
Duck Creek RV Resort
1155 W Riley Thompson Road
Muskegon, MI
231-766-3646
Muskegon KOA
3500 North Strand Road
Muskegon, MI
231-766-3900
Nearby Hotels
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Michigan
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Michigan State Parks

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