Dog beach · Ludington, MI

Dogs at Ludington State Park

Can I bring my dog, and where on the sand?
Limited access

Partly, a specific pet beach section sits between the beach house and Big Sable River; most of the shoreline is closed.

Pet-friendly beach reached via dog beach access trails just west of the picnic shelter, on a 6-ft leash.

Where dogs can go

Pet-friendly beach reached via dog beach access trails just west of the picnic shelter, on a 6-ft leash.

Where or when dogs are not allowed

The majority of the park's Lake Michigan shoreline, closed to protect endangered piping plover habitat.

Leash and beach rules

Michigan DNR pet-friendly beaches list.

Service animals

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.

Official source
Ludington, MI
View the official beach rules →
Last verified 2026-07-09

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Ludington State Park?

Partly, a specific pet beach section sits between the beach house and Big Sable River; most of the shoreline is closed. Pet-friendly beach reached via dog beach access trails just west of the picnic shelter, on a 6-ft leash.

What is the dog rule at Ludington State Park?

Michigan DNR pet-friendly beaches list.

When are dogs not allowed at Ludington State Park?

The majority of the park's Lake Michigan shoreline, closed to protect endangered piping plover habitat.

Are service animals allowed at Ludington State Park?

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.