North Higgins Lake State Park

North Higgins Lake State Park offers families one of Michigan's most pristine swimming beaches on the crystal-clear waters of Higgins Lake. With soft sandy shores perfect for sandcastle building, shallow swimming areas for little ones, and shaded picnic spots under towering pines, this park delivers the quintessential Northern Michigan beach experience without the crowds of coastal destinations.

• ✓Pristine sandy beach with exceptionally clear, clean water perfect for safe swimming
• ✓Shallow, gradual entry areas ideal for young children and beginner swimmers
• ✓Shaded picnic areas with tables and grills for family cookouts
• ✓Nature trails through pine forests great for short family hikes
• ✓Gorgeous sunset views over the lake in evening hours

1. 1.Arrive before 10:00 AM on summer weekends to secure prime parking spots close to the beach and claim a picnic table in the shade.
2. 2.Bring water shoes as some areas have small rocks and sticks near the shoreline, plus they're great for the nature trails.
3. 3.Pack your own food and drinks since there are no concessions on-site, but the picnic facilities with grills are excellent for a family cookout.
4. 4.The bathhouse has changing rooms and restrooms, but bring hand sanitizer and extra towels during peak season.
5. 5.Rent kayaks or paddleboards from nearby outfitters to explore the lake's incredibly clear waters, where you can see 20+ feet down.

Weekday mornings from late June through August offer the warmest water and smallest crowds. Arrive between 8:00 and 9:00 AM to enjoy the beach before it gets busy and claim the best shaded picnic spots.

A Michigan Recreation Passport ($12 annually or $9 daily) is required for vehicle entry. Parking fills quickly on summer weekends. The park has clean restrooms, changing facilities, and picnic areas with grills, but no food vendors, so pack snacks and meals.

The park is open year-round, but swimming season runs May through September with warmest water in July and August. Facilities like bathhouses operate seasonally (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day). Fall offers beautiful foliage and fewer crowds, while winter provides opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Head to Village Inn Restaurant (5 miles south) for classic diner fare and generous portions kids love, or grab pizza and subs at Higgins Lake Pizza (7 miles away) perfect for taking back to your picnic spot.