Lake Ann Park offers families a perfect blend of outdoor recreation with its sandy beach, modern playground equipment, and easy walking trails along the scenic shoreline. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for young swimmers, while the shaded picnic areas and open green spaces provide plenty of room for families to spread out and enjoy a full day of lakeside fun.
Weekday mornings from late June through August offer the best weather with smaller crowds. Arrive between 9-11am for comfortable temperatures and easy parking before the afternoon rush.
Parking and entry are completely free. There are restroom facilities on site, but no concessions, so pack your own snacks, drinks, and lunch for the day.
Best visited from Memorial Day through Labor Day when the weather is warmest for swimming. The park is open year-round, but water activities are seasonal. Fall offers beautiful foliage along the trails, though facilities may be more limited.
The Cherry Hut in nearby Beulah (about 10 minutes away) is a local favorite with kid-friendly menu options and famous cherry pie. For a quick bite, head to Village Market Deli in Benzonia for sandwiches and picnic supplies.
Benzonia Park is a welcoming community gem that offers everything families need for an active outdoor day. With well-maintained playgrounds for multiple age groups, open sports fields for impromptu games, and peaceful walking trails perfect for family strolls, this free park delivers quality recreation without the price tag.
Orchard Beach State Park is a gem along Michigan's Lake Michigan shoreline, offering families everything they need for a perfect beach day without spending a dime. With its pristine sandy beach, well-maintained playground, shaded picnic areas, and scenic nature trails, this park provides endless opportunities for kids to explore, play, and connect with nature while parents relax in a beautiful lakeside setting.
Crystal Lake Mobile Home Park serves primarily as an RV park and lodging facility in beautiful Benzonia, Michigan, near the shores of Crystal Lake. While this is not a traditional family activity destination or state park, its location provides convenient access to the nearby Crystal Lake area beaches, parks, and natural attractions that families visiting northern Michigan will want to explore.
The Falmouth Area Library is a welcoming community hub in Benzonia that offers families a quiet, educational space to explore books and participate in enriching programs. With dedicated children's sections filled with age-appropriate reading materials and regular story time sessions, this library provides a wonderful opportunity for kids to develop a love of reading while parents can browse resources or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere together.