Warren Dunes State Park Things to Do

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Climbing Tower hill is a must do! This tower of sand is measured at 240 ft tall. It is located on the right hand side of the road as you approach the beach, it is huge so you won't miss it. You will notice others leading toward this tower like it is part of the the parks criteria that each individual must climb. It isn't that difficult unless it is a hot day, then the sand is so hot that you can barely walk bare foot. At the top you can see the lake and the surrounding area with such an amazing view.

There are about 6 miles of trails within the park. They are not easy nor hard. Although it is quite sandy, i would say that is the biggest challenge. The forest are beautiful and offer much animal life! You can get copies of trail maps and info from the Park Headquarters (located on first right after entrance). Also you can check there to find out what programs are being offer by the rangers, everything from trail guided tours to star gazing in the evening.

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Please don't go to the clay deposits in the creek, and please discourage others from doing so. The natural condition of this creek (before the clay business got out of hand) was crystal clear water, teaming with fish, frogs and other aquatic life. Thanks to the constant stream of 'clay people' it is now polluted, filthy, and a threat to public health. The clay particles in the stream limit bacteria-killing UV rays from penetrating the water and provide homes for bacteria to attach to, a nice thought to keep in mind next time you see a young kid rolling around in the water or as you splash through the creek yourself. Once the creek finds its way to the lake it dumps the clay particles into the lake turning what would otherwise be crystal clear water into murky, hazy water. Thus people who have no interest in the clay are forced to deal with the negative consequences whether they wanted to go for a swim in a nice clean lake or let their kids play in what would otherwise have been a clean & safe creek. Please, please don't go for the clay- consider the impact beyond your temporary bit of fun and the effect on the creek & lake ecology (easy to appreciate once you see the condition of the creek and recognize that 'clay people' are responsible for it- see attached photo). Please don't spoil it for the rest of us.

Also- it is a MYTH that the clay is "good for your skin". But, if you want to dry out your skin with clay, try digging a hole for clay in your own backyard- it's the same stuff & at least that way the environment isn't polluted for everyone else who wants to enjoy a clean lake & creek.

Climbing the dunes is truly one of the main attractions of Warren Dunes State Park. If you park your car in one of the beach parking areas, you can spend a day climbing up and down the various dune "mountains" that border the beach. Not only does this activity offer abundant exercise, it also provides you with exceptional views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding Michigan environment.