The dog beach question

Question

I’m looking something up for another post. I ran across what appears to be a dog beach at the Van Buren State Park just south of South Haven for those of you have in the past. The map that the state park provides shows a trail going to a dog beach.

Answer

Van Buren State Park, located just south of South Haven, Michigan, is a popular destination for families, nature lovers, and pet owners. The park offers over two miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, making it an appealing location for beach activities. While the park is primarily a general-use state park, there is mention of a “dog beach” area indicated on some trail maps, though it is not an official, designated dog beach with amenities or signage.

Here are some details based on past visitors’ experiences:

The trail leading to the dog beach is accessible from the main parking area, but it is relatively short and may involve walking through sand and some natural terrain.
The area at the end of the trail is more secluded compared to the main public beach, allowing dogs to enjoy the water off-leash in a less crowded environment.
It is recommended to bring water, waste bags, and keep your dog under voice control since this is not a monitored or fully maintained dog beach.
The dog beach area is seasonal, as the park is busiest during summer, and visitor density may limit how much space your dog has to roam freely.

Tips for visiting:

Check current park rules before visiting, as policies on dogs and leash requirements can change.
Arrive early during busy weekends or holidays to secure parking and enjoy the area before it gets crowded.
Be prepared for limited facilities—there may not be restrooms or picnic tables directly at the dog beach trail end.
Consider visiting on weekdays or in the early morning/evening for a quieter experience.

Overall, while Van Buren State Park doesn’t have an official dog beach, the trail leading to the designated area on maps provides a pleasant lakeshore spot for dogs to enjoy Lake Michigan water and sand, with some natural seclusion from the main beach traffic.