• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

North Ottawa Dunes

(Parking at Coast Guard Park)
18201 North Shore Drive (approx.)
Ferrysburg, MI 49409

On December 15, 2005, Ottawa County acquired the 500 acre North Ottawa Dunes property. Just off the Lake Michigan shoreline, between the Grand River and the southern boundary of P.J. Hoffmaster State Park, this tract is one of the largest wooded dune assemblages remaining in the central West Michigan area. The property is uniquely situated between state, county and city parks and is adjacent to township-owned undeveloped land. This acquisition links P.J. Hoffmaster State Park, Ottawa County’s North Beach Park, Ferrysburg’s Coast Guard Park and undeveloped land owned by Spring Lake Township.

The property features tremendous topography with an elevation change of 185 feet in the parabolic dune formations. Eight distinct dunes in the rugged landscape exceed 750 feet in height. The property varies in width from 900 feet to 4,200 feet and has a north to south reach of approximately 10,200 feet (1.93 miles.)

Today, this park offers 513 acres of wooded dunes located just off the Lake Michigan shoreline. Ten miles of hiking link North Ottawa Dunes to North Beach Park and P.J. Hoffmaster State Park. Some trails are designated for cross-country skiing.

Park Map - This printable map shows facilities, parking areas, features and trails (if any).

Facilities

• Access, trail head and parking at Coast Guard Park
• Picnic tables
• Modern restrooms during warm months
• Hiking and ungroomed cross country ski trails

Fees

There are no entry fees.

Dog Policy

Dogs are permitted at North Ottawa Dunes with the exception of the dune stairs. From May 1 through September 30, we ask that you take your pet only on designated trails. For the safety and enjoyment of all park guests, pets must be on ten foot leashes and under control. Owners must clean up after their pet and dispose of waste in a trash receptacle. Dogs are not permitted in buildings, restrooms, or as posted. Leader dogs for persons with disabilities are permitted in all areas. Recognizing that most dogs enjoy running and playing freely, Ottawa County Open Space Lands allow dogs year-round off leash.

Directions

North Ottawa Dunes is located in Spring Lake Township and the City of Ferrysburg. From US 31, take the Ferrysburg exit and go west on 3rd Street to North Shore Drive. Turn west on North Shore Drive and travel about 1 mile to the City of Ferrysburg’s Coast Guard Park. Enter Coast Guard Park and look for the North Ottawa Dunes trail head.

Parks Administration Office

General Park Hours*

March 1 - October 15
7:00am - 10:00pm
October 16 - February 28
7:00am - 8:00pm

EXPLORE OTTAWA COUNTY