Holland State Park

Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa in Ottawa County, Holland State Park packs an outsized punch across its 142 acres. The park’s main draw is its stunning Lake Michigan beach — a wide sweep of sugar-fine sand consistently ranked among the best in the Midwest. The iconic Big Red Lighthouse, perched at the end of the channel pier, anchors the view and has become one of Michigan’s most photographed landmarks.

Swimming and sunbathing dominate the summer months, but the park offers far more than beach time. Anglers work the channel between the two lakes for perch, steelhead, and salmon. The flat, paved paths connecting the campground to the beach make the park accessible for families with young children and visitors with mobility needs. In winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing replace the beach crowds, and the frozen lake views are striking in their own right.

The campground sits on the Lake Macatawa side, offering over 300 sites split between modern and semi-modern options. Spots fill fast — reservations for summer weekends often sell out months in advance, so booking early is essential. The proximity to downtown Holland adds a bonus: Dutch-themed shops, restaurants, and the famous Tulip Time Festival each May are all a short drive away.

Peak season runs June through August, when water temperatures finally warm enough for comfortable swimming. For fewer crowds and lower campsite competition, September weekdays offer mild weather and golden light along the shore.

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