Warren Dunes State Park Beach
Sitting on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan in Sawyer, Michigan, Warren Dunes State Park Beach is a favorite for both locals and travelers passing through.
The park’s towering dunes (some rising 260 feet above the lake!), make this one of the most dramatic stretches of shoreline in the Great Lakes region. From the top, you can see miles of water in one direction and rolling wooded hills in the other.
The beach itself is wide, sandy, and welcoming - the kind of place where you set up shop for the whole day, kids race down the dunes into the water, and maybe have a picnic or grill out in the evening.
With over 1,900 acres of dunes, forests, and shoreline, Warren Dunes State Park offers more than just a beach day - it’s an all-in-one destination for outdoor fun.
The park and beach are open year-round. Swimming season typically runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, when conditions are best. Lifeguards are usually on duty during the busiest summer days.
Park hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., though swimming restrictions may vary depending on weather, staffing, and lake conditions.
Michigan residents can use the Recreation Passport ($14 annually with vehicle registration) for entry into all state parks.
For non-residents, the daily entry fee is $11 per vehicle.
Multiple large parking areas are available near the beach.
They can fill up quickly on hot summer weekends, so earlier arrivals get the best spots.
Dogs are allowed in the park but not in the designated swim beach area.
However, there is a separate dog beach area north of the main swim zone where leashed pets are welcome to splash and play.
Services & Amenities
Facilities
Restrooms, showers and changing stations are located close to the main beach areas.
Concessions
There are 4 food trucks located in the beach parking lot May through Labor Day weekend. They are often open on nice weekends in September too.
Picnic Areas
There are plenty of shaded picnic tables and grills, making it easy to bring lunch and spend the day.
Playground
There is a playground near the main day-use area of the park, close to picnic shelters and the beach access.
Accessibility
There are 3 walkways that connect the sidewalk to the sand (though they don’t quite reach the water’s edge), plus two beach wheelchairs available to borrow at the ranger station.
Paddlesport Rentals
Third Coast Paddling rents single and double kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and even sandboards/sleds for riding the dunes.
All rentals come with paddles and life jackets.
Located on the north side of the park, near the dog beach and past the main parking lot.
Reservations are recommended (they allow walk-ups, but supply can be limited).
Can I fish from shore?
You bet!
Depending on the season, anglers reel in perch, trout, salmon, bass, and catfish.
Shore fishing is permitted in designated areas outside the guarded swim zone.
Make sure to bring a valid Michigan fishing license.
You can purchase one online through the Michigan DNR eLicense system or in person at the Sawyer BP gas station just a few minutes from the park.
Tips when visiting:
Get there early on weekends - the lots fill up fast on hot summer days.
Bring dune-friendly shoes, especially if you plan to climb the dunes. The sand heats up quickly!
Pack a picnic or bring some $ for the food trucks!
Check the lake conditions: Lake Michigan waves can change fast, always follow posted advisories.
Stick around for sunset: This is one of the best spots in southwest MI to catch the sun dropping into the lake.
