Jack Pine State Park Campground

Open — Open year-round for walk-in camping. Reservations available through Michigan DNR. Campers must hike approximately 1 mile from the parking area.

About

Jack Pine Campground is a rustic walk-in camping area at Ludington State Park, offering 10 secluded tent sites for backpackers and hikers seeking a more remote experience. The campground requires approximately a 1-mile hike from the designated parking area behind park headquarters, following the sand-and-gravel pathway that leads toward the iconic Big Sable Point Lighthouse. Sites are nestled along the dunes among jack pines with Lake Michigan shoreline just a few steps away. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Vault toilets and a hand pump for water are located nearby. Campers have access to modern restrooms and shower facilities at the Pines Campground, though this requires hiking back toward the main campground area. The concession service will deliver firewood to the sites in the evenings by arrangement. All equipment and supplies must be backpacked or bicycle-packed in from the parking area. The campground provides an excellent base for exploring the lighthouse trail and Lake Michigan shoreline while escaping the crowds of the park's modern campgrounds. The sites are located in one of Michigan's most popular state parks, which features 5,000-acre Hamlin Lake, 7 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, scenic sand dunes, and 21 miles of marked trails.

Directions

From the main entrance of Ludington State Park, follow signs to park headquarters. The designated parking area for Jack Pine campers is located behind the headquarters building. From the parking area, hike approximately 1 mile along the sand-and-gravel lighthouse pathway to reach the campsites.

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