Nearly three miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and 2,000 acres of sand dunes define Silver Lake State Park near Mears. The park also offers a paved trail for walking and biking, a range of water activities, and local history exhibits. When planning a stay, you can organize your options around specific interests: scenery, water activities, exercise, or culture.

Sand Dunes, Shoreline, and Camping

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ current park information lists nearly three miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and 2,000 acres of sand dunes at Silver Lake State Park. The shoreline and dune area describe two different sides of the same park. The modern campground at Silver Lake State Park has 200 campsites with 20- or 30-amp electrical hookups. If you are considering camping, you can factor in the number of sites and the amperage of the hookups when making your choice. The two hookup options are a practical consideration when planning your camping trip.

Water and Seasonal Activities

Golden Township’s 2025–2029 Recreation Plan describes a public beach for swimming and picnicking at Golden Township Park at Lake Michigan. The Silver Lake Channel flows through the park, offering opportunities for wading and recreation. Golden Township Park at Round (Wyckoff) Lake Park in Mears has a boat launch for small boats. The activities are distinct: swimming and picnicking at the beach, wading in the channel, or launching small boats at Round (Wyckoff) Lake Park.

Golden Township’s 2025–2029 Recreation Plan also lists a covered concert stage at Golden Township Park at Silver Lake Sand Dunes. At Golden Township Park at Johnson Square Park, an open area is used for arts and crafts exhibits every summer. This describes both a concert offering and a recurring seasonal exhibition format.

Walking and Biking Trails

The Golden Township Bike/Pedestrian Trail in Mears is paved, 8 feet (about 2.4 meters) wide, and intended for walking and biking. Nearby, the Ruckel’s Bridge Day Use Trail is a loop in Silver Lake State Park, about 3.5 to 4 kilometers long, for birdwatching, hiking, and walking. The main consideration when choosing is the activity: the township trail is intended for walking and biking, while birdwatching is also an option on the park loop.

Local History

The Historical Park in Mears includes five buildings and a storage building. A local visitor article from 2025 describes historic dune buggies and a lighthouse exhibit at the Mears Museum & Historical Complex. The two attractions have different emphases: the Historical Park is described in terms of its buildings, while the museum is described through specifically named exhibits.

Discover more destinations: Pentwater, New Era.

View the broader travel overview: Oceana County.