Petoskey State Park

Petoskey State Park offers families the perfect Lake Michigan beach adventure with a unique twist: hunting for Petoskey stones, Michigan's official state stone. This gorgeous coastal park features sandy beaches perfect for sandcastle building, gentle waves for wading, scenic dune trails, and plenty of open space for picnicking and playing. With its combination of beach fun and fossil hunting, it keeps kids entertained for hours while parents enjoy stunning shoreline views.

• ✓Hunting for Petoskey stones and fossils along the shoreline
• ✓Swimming and wading in the clear, sandy-bottomed Lake Michigan waters
• ✓Exploring the dune trails with beautiful overlooks
• ✓Building sandcastles on the wide, family-friendly beach
• ✓Playground area for younger children

1. 1.Arrive early in the morning or on weekdays during summer to snag the best parking spots and enjoy a less crowded beach experience.
2. 2.Bring a bucket and guidebook for Petoskey stone hunting. The best finds are usually along the water's edge after waves wash up new treasures, especially in spring and fall.
3. 3.Pack a beach wagon or cart as the walk from the parking lot to the beach can be a bit of a trek with young kids and all your gear.
4. 4.The playground area near the day-use section is perfect for a break from the beach, and the bathhouse has clean restrooms and changing areas.
5. 5.Check out the nature trail along the dunes for a quieter experience and great photo opportunities overlooking Lake Michigan.

Visit on weekday mornings in late spring (May-June) or early fall (September) for the best Petoskey stone hunting, fewer crowds, and comfortable temperatures. Summer weekends are busiest but offer the warmest swimming conditions.

While park entry is free, a Michigan Recreation Passport is required ($12 for residents, $34 for non-residents) for vehicle access. Parking fills quickly on summer weekends, and concessions are limited, so pack your own snacks and drinks.

The park is open year-round, but swimming season runs from late June through August. Spring and fall offer the best Petoskey stone hunting conditions. Winter visits provide opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, though facilities are limited.

Head to Roast & Toast (5 minutes away) for casual family dining with burgers, sandwiches, and breakfast options, or try City Park Grill in downtown Petoskey (10 minutes) for a more upscale but still kid-friendly meal with a great children's menu.