Orchard Beach State Park
About
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.
Highlights
- ✓Wide, sandy Lake Michigan beach perfect for building sandcastles and swimming
- ✓Well-equipped playground area for active play
- ✓Shaded picnic pavilions and tables ideal for family meals
- ✓Scenic nature trails through wooded areas
- ✓Stunning sunset views over the water
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive before 11:00 AM during summer weekends to snag a prime picnic table near the beach and avoid parking challenges.
- 2.Bring water shoes as the beach can have occasional rocks and zebra mussel shells near the water's edge.
- 3.Pack a cooler with lunch and snacks since there are no food vendors on site, but excellent covered picnic pavilions are available.
- 4.Don't miss the nature trails that wind through the wooded areas, perfect for a quick adventure when kids need a break from the sand.
- 5.Bring beach toys, shade umbrellas, and plenty of sunscreen as the sandy beach offers limited natural shade during peak sun hours.
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings during summer (June through August) for the warmest water temperatures and fewer crowds. Early evening visits in late spring or early fall offer beautiful sunsets and comfortable temperatures without the summer rush.
What to Know
This state park is completely free to enter with ample parking available. Restroom facilities are on-site, but there are no food concessions, so pack everything you need for the day.
Seasonal Notes
The park is open year-round, but swimming and beach activities are best from late June through early September when water temperatures are warmest. Winter visits offer peaceful walks and potential for snow play, though facilities may be limited.
Nearby Eats
Head to the nearby town of Frankfort (about 10 minutes south) for family-friendly options like Stormcloud Brewing Company, which offers burgers and pizzas with a kids menu, or grab ice cream at Beachhouse Deli & Ice Cream.
More Activities Near Benzonia
Benzonia Park
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.
Lake Ann Park
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.
Crystal Lake Mobile Home Park
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.
Falmouth Area Library
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.