Nestled along the shores of Lake Huron, Lakeport State Park offers beautiful beaches and abundant recreational activities just 90 minutes north of Detroit. Lakeport State Park provides access to swimming, boating, fishing, camping, and miles of scenic trails near the tip of Michigan’s Thumb region.
Located along the sparkling shoreline of Lake Huron, Lakeport State Park offers visitors gorgeous sandy beaches and abundant recreational opportunities. The 370-acre state park situated in Michigan’s Thumb region contains modern campgrounds, inland trails, and direct access to Lake Huron’s famous freshwater beaches.
Lakeport State Park’s biggest draw is its nearly one-mile beachfront adjacent to the campground and picnic areas. Visitors flock to take advantage of swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and unparalleled lake views. The park contains a fishing pier, boat launch, and a system of inland wooded trails perfect for hiking and bicycling.
Just a 1.5 hour drive from Detroit, Lakeport State Park makes an ideal destination for a weekend camping trip or day-long beach outing. The family-friendly park offers a scenic Lake Huron escape.
This guide covers everything you need to know to plan your perfect Lakeport State Park vacation, from directions and fees to activities and trip planning tips.
Getting to Lakeport State Park
Lakeport State Park is located right off M-25 in Michigan’s Thumb region.
Address: 7605 Lakeshore Rd, Lakeport, MI 48059
From Detroit: 1.5 hours, 90 miles
From Flint: 1 hour, 60 miles
From Saginaw: 45 minutes, 35 miles
Take I-69 to Exit 168, head east on M-25 and follow for approximately 10 miles until you reach the park entrance on the right.
Lakeport State Park Hours & Fees
Park Hours: 8am – 10pm daily
Day Use Fees:
- Daily Vehicle Permit – $9
- Annual Recreation Passport – $12
Camping Fees:
- Modern Campsite – $29-$37/night
- Mini Cabin – $80-$120/night
Purchase passes at the park office or online here.
Camping at Lakeport State Park
Lakeport State Park offers 148 campsites nestled in woods right along the shore of Lake Huron. Sites accommodate both tents and RVs up to 40 feet long.
Half of the sites offer 50 amp electric service. Water spigots and dump station are available in the campground. Two modern bathhouses provide hot showers and restrooms.
In addition to campsites, the park rents out three mini cabins that sleep up to six people, perfect for those without an RV or tent.
Pets are welcome at Lakeport campground and cabins. Reserve sites in advance through the DNR reservation system.
Beaches & Swimming at Lakeport State Park
The main attraction at Lakeport State Park is its nearly one-mile stretch of sandy beach along Lake Huron. The beach area features picnic tables, grills, restrooms and ample parking.
Lifeguards are on duty daily throughout summer months. Swimming is only permitted in designated areas marked by buoys. Caution is advised for changing water conditions and strong underwater currents.
Pets, alcohol and glass are prohibited on Lakeport’s beaches. The beach is also wheelchair accessible near the concession stand.
Boating & Fishing at Lakeport State Park
Lakeport State Park provides excellent boating and fishing access to Lake Huron from both the beach area and fishing pier.
A concrete boat launch with docking area can accommodate boats up to 24 feet. Power boats of all types are welcome. Canoes and kayaks can easily be launched from the shoreline.
Fishing for rock bass, perch, walleye and pike is popular from the fishing pier. Michigan fishing licenses are required for those age 17+.
Lakeport State Park Trails
Over 14 miles of hiking and biking trails loop through Lakeport State Park, ranging from easy 1-mile loops to an 8-mile route.
Highlights include:
- Barrier-free paved trail perfect for wheelchairs and strollers.
- Observation tower with panoramic views of the Thumb region.
- Trails connect the campground, day use area, and neighboring villages.
- Paths wind through scenic forest and fields abundant with wildlife.
Mountain biking is permitted on wider dirt trails. Hikers are advised to bring insect repellent during wet periods.
Pets are allowed on trails but must be leashed at all times.
Things to Do Near Lakeport State Park
In addition to park activities, nearby attractions include:
- Caseville – Quaint beach town with restaurants, shops and festivities.
- Sleeper State Park – Hiking/biking trails, camping, cross-country skiing.
- Harbor Beach – Marinas, charter fishing, kayak rentals.
- Pointe Aux Barques Lighthouse – Tours offered seasonally of historic lighthouse.
- Palms-Book State Park – Rustic campground and access to Saginaw Bay.
- McCallum’s Orchard & Cider Mill – U-pick fruits, baked goods, family fun.
Trip Planning Tips for Lakeport State Park
To make the most of your Lakeport State Park vacation, keep these tips in mind:
- Reserve campsites well in advance for summer weekends
- Visit in early fall for pleasant weather without crowds
- Bring bikes to explore park trails and nearby villages
- Pack sunscreen, towels, water shoes for beach days
- Fishing licenses required for ages 17+
- Beach wheelchairs available at concession stand
- Leashed pets welcome at sites but not beaches
- Stop for firewood outside the park to avoid spreading pests
- Fill up on gas and supplies in nearby towns
With sandy beaches, fishing piers, wooded trails, and lakeside campsites, Lakeport State Park is the perfect place for an affordable Thumb area getaway. Follow this guide to help plan your Michigan beach vacation.
