Plan a fun summer weekend with the family at Silver Lake Sand Dunes with this list of the best things to do with kids!
If you’re searching for exciting things to do near Silver Lake Sand Dunes with kids, you’re in for a treat! Nestled near the small town of Mears, Michigan, this unique area offers a combination of natural beauty and high-energy adventure.
What makes Silver Lake so special? Well, for starters, it’s home to the only sand dunes east of the Mississippi River where you can rev up an off-road vehicle and let loose on rolling dunes set against a backdrop of blue sky and water.
My family and I visited Silver Lake Sand Dunes this summer and it was a blast! We love outdoor adventures, especially places like Zion National Park where you can see landscapes unlike any other, and Silver Lake Sand Dunes did not disappoint.
As a professional travel writer with over 10 years of experience writing for magazines, I’ve explored incredible destinations across the United States. My mission is to help people plan unforgettable vacations. For fun, offbeat trips, check out my guides. They make going on an awesome adventure easy!
Besides off-roading, there are a bunch of things to do near Silver Lake Sand Dunes with kids and for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking to explore the scenic dunes, enjoy a picnic by the water, or dive into adrenaline-pumping fun, this destination has something for everyone.
My Top 3 Picks
1. Tour the dunes. Going on a dune ride is a must for every visitor. You get the region’s backstory as well as some cheap thrills rolling down the hills with beautiful views.
2. Climb the sand dunes. Tackling the sand dunes by foot is the most difficult challenge. But once you climb to the top of a dune, seeing sand that stretches in every direction makes you feel like you’re in the Sahara Desert.
3. Spend the day at the beach. Bring a picnic to the Lake Michigan shoreline, take a dip in the cool water, build sandcastles, and watch the gorgeous sunset next to an old lighthouse—what more could you ask for?
The Best Things to Do Near Silver Lake Sand Dunes With Kids
Silver Lake Sand Dunes is a great destination for a weekend of family fun during the summer. This is the idyllic, small-town Michigan experience—take your time and savor all the simple joys of summer, from sledding down the dunes to splashing in the lake to picking blueberries and petting goats. You’re going to have a great time with this list of things to do.
1. Tour the Sand Dunes
People have been cruising the dunes on Mac Wood’s Dune Rides since 1930, when Mac Wood souped-up a Model A Ford to take his wife out for ride on the sand. These days, groups of about 20 people board a four-wheel drive truck modified with rows of open-air bench seating and aircraft wheels.
The 7-mile ride is a blast! For about 40 minutes you climb over dunes, see beautiful views of Lake Michigan from the peaks, and stop and get out at the lakeshore. I had fun throwing my hands up when we were plunging downhill and we all agreed that it was a great ride—totally worth the $25 per person fee.
2. Go Off-Roading
You can drive the dunes yourself! Many people bring their own off-road vehicle to play on the sand. But you can also rent UTVs that seat anywhere from one to four people and zoom around on your own.
Your independence is going to cost you though. When I looked into it—because my family loves off-roading—the lowest price I could find was $336 for one hour on a four-seater.
3. Climb the Sand Dunes
There aren’t any official, paved trails through the dunes. But there is a pedestrian parking lot at Silver Lake State Park with a path to access the dunes. The first part is steep and tiring, but then you get to the top and find out that it was totally worth it.
It feels like you’re in another country with sand as far as the eye can see and a sliver of Lake Michigan blue glinting in the background. You can walk all over the dunes in the pedestrian area and catch a glimpse of the off-roaders wheeling around. You can even walk down to the water. Just note that walking in sand is pretty exhausting, especially when you have to go uphill.
4. Sled Down the Dunes
Another fun (and cheap) way to experience the dunes in the summer is to sled down them. Rent sleds from The Sand Box or Wave Club and go out on the dunes via the pedestrian access in Silver Lake State Park. It’s best to go on dry days because you can’t slide down wet sand. And be prepared for a workout—walking uphill in sand is brutal!
5. Visit Lake Michigan’s Tallest Lighthouse
Little Sable Point Lighthouse dates back to 1874 and is the tallest lighthouse on Lake Michigan out of more than 100 lighthouses. It stands at 115 feet and people can see it’s light as far as 19 miles away.
Lighthouses were especially important back in the heyday of shipping on the great lakes, during the 1700s and 1800s. They guided ships away from shallow water. Navigating Lake Michigan was no joke—there are an estimated 3,000 shipwrecks at the bottom of the lake!
Little Sable Point Lighthouse is easy to get to, just south of Silver Lake Sand Dunes. Pull into the parking lot off of North Lighthouse Drive and snap some pics of the impressive tower. During the summer months, you can also walk to the top for a small fee. It’s 130 steps, but I heard the view up there is amazing, especially at sunset.
6. Play Games
For a bunch of fun things to do off the sand, head to Craig’s Cruisers. They have go-karts, bumper boats, mini golf, an arcade, a small zipline, and some festival type rides. My family convinced me to do go-karts (my first time!) and we took lots of turns at the claw games in the arcade. They offer a great package deal of five attractions for $30, if your gang wants to do it all.
7. Go Swimming at the Beach
Both Silver Lake and Lake Michigan have beautiful beaches. Bring your own shade, chairs, towels, and a picnic to spend a day swimming in the lake, building sand castles, and getting some sun.
Silver Lake is very shallow for a long way out and the water is warmer and calmer than Lake Michigan. You can access the beach area at Silver Lake State Park Campground. You don’t have to be camping there to get in, but you do need to purchase a day pass. The beach has a roped-off area for swimming (great for kids), a playground, restrooms, and a fishing pier. Plus, there’s a campground store for any necessities you forgot.
If you want to hang out on a bigger stretch of sand, Lake Michigan is where to go. The easiest beach to reach is the one surrounding Little Sable Point Lighthouse. The beach here has a parking lot and a restroom.
8. Pick Blueberries
About a 20-minute drive from Silver Lake Sand Dunes, you can pick blueberries at Jazz Blueberry Farm. During the summer, this family-run farm offers unbeatable prices for u-pick baskets. Grab a bucket and starting eating and picking fresh blueberries off the bushes. You can also cheat and buy ones they already picked as well as other seasonal produce.
9. Visit With Animals
If you love animals, spend some time at Lewis Adventure Farm, 20 minutes south of Silver Lake Sand Dunes. Besides interacting with barnyard animals in the petting zoo, you can also get close to sloths, lemurs, kangaroos, camels and capybaras.
Feed the animals, take pictures, ride the giant slide, and then grab a gourmet mason jar milkshake. Regular admission is about $25 a person, but food for the animals and close encounters cost extra.
10. Fly a Drone
My husband has drones, but it’s a challenge finding beautiful places that allow you to fly them. But you can bring a drone to the Silver Lake Sand Dunes area and get some excellent footage! Check out this 4k drone video of the dunes, lakes, and lighthouse.
11. Attend the Bronco Festival
The Bronco Takeover is an annual gathering of Bronco SUV lovers at Silver Lake Sand Dunes. In August, more than 150 Bronco owners bring their vehicles out to take part in this weekend of food, music, cruising around together and, for some, roaring around the dunes. (For the record, my husband has a Bronco baby that we plan to bring next year, but he would never let a grain of sand touch it.)
12. Chill at a Family-Friendly Winery
Ok, admittedly this is far more fun for adults. But after a day of exploring the dunes and playing games, don’t you think you deserve a little vino? The nearby, family-owned Fox Barn Market & Winery is a casual, relaxing hangout that’s open seasonally.
You can do tastings at the bar, but I recommend ordering a flight and some charcuterie to take out on the patio overlooking the vineyard. In the summer, they have live music on Friday nights and Saturday afternoons too.
13. Play a Round of Golf
The whole family can have fun golfing at the Golden Sands Golf Course, which is a 9-hole, par 4 golf course in a serene setting. There’s also a driving range and The Bucket Bar that serves the best pizza in the region.
Where to Eat Near Silver Lake Sand Dunes
After a full day of exploring, you’ll definitely want to know where to eat in Silver Lake Sand Dunes to refuel. Luckily, there are plenty of delicious spots to grab a bite near the dunes that cater to all kinds of cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for wings, burgers, pizza, or something sweet, here are some top spots you won’t want to miss:
Chow Down on the World’s Best Chicken Wings
For some of the best chicken wings you’ll ever taste, stop by Silver Lake Chicken Shack, located at Craig’s Cruisers. These smoked wings are packed with flavor and are so good they don’t need any extra sauce—though you can try four different ones from the self-serve station.
The sides here are on the small side, so grab a few extras if you’re feeding the whole family. Be sure to get the baked beans—they’re just right with a savory, smoky flavor that’s not too sweet.
Share One Massive Burger
Looking for where to get a great burger in Silver Lake Sand Dunes? Head over to Lighthouse Grill at Hideaway Campground for one of their giant, juicy burgers. These are perfect for sharing, or you can take one down by yourself if you’re feeling extra hungry after a day on the dunes!
Sip Local Brews and Wine with Dinner
For those wondering where to eat in Silver Lake Sand Dunes with local brews on tap, Big Hart Brewing is a must-visit. Their menu of American classics pairs perfectly with their selection of local craft beer and wine. It’s a casual, laid-back dinner after a day of adventure.
Grab a Slice and Get Your Game On
Pizza lovers, this one’s for you! The Bucket Bar at Golden Sands Golf Course serves up herb-crusted pizza and bread bites that are sure to hit the spot. While you enjoy your meal, the kids can stay entertained with board games, a giant chalkboard wall, and even the driving range. It’s the perfect spot for family-friendly fun and tasty food.
Get a Big Scoop
No day at Silver Lake is complete without a trip to Silver Scoops. After all the fun, treat yourself to a big cone of your favorite ice cream flavor. It’s the perfect sweet ending to your day at Silver Lake Sand Dunes!
Where To Stay
When planning a trip to Silver Lake Sand Dunes, you’ll find several nearby towns offering convenient and comfortable places to stay. The small town of Mears is the closest, just minutes from the dunes, making it a great base for your adventure.
A little farther out, Hart and Shelby offer more options for accommodations and dining, all within a 20-minute drive. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly stays or luxurious retreats, there’s something for every traveler.
📍 Camping Option: Silver Lake Resort & Campground
If you like to camp Silver Lake Resort & Campground offers a variety of accommodations, from cabins to RV hookups starting at $55 a night. This spot is ideal for families or groups looking for a fun camping experience close to the dunes. With amenities like a heated pool, playground, a catch-and-release pond, and even dune buggy rentals, it has everything you need for a fun, convenient stay.
✅Check prices and book your stay at Silver Lake Resort & Campground by clicking here!
📍 Budget Option: Dunes Waterfront Resort
If you’re looking for an affordable stay close to the action, Dunes Waterfront Resort is a fantastic choice. Located on Silver Lake, this family-friendly resort offers basic rooms with beautiful lake views starting at $100 a night. It’s just minutes from the dunes and features direct access to the beach across the street, making it a perfect spot for water lovers.
✅Check prices and book your stay at Dunes Waterfront Resort by clicking here!
📍 Mid-Range Option: Sierra Sands Family Lodge
A solid mid-range option is Sierra Sands Family Lodge. Located just a few minutes from Silver Lake Sand Dunes, this clean and comfortable motel is perfect for families. Choose the kids suite for two attached rooms—one with bunk beds and the other with a queen bed—or the mini family suite, which has more space and a breakfast bar area. Kids can enjoy the heated outdoor pool and playground while adults soak in the hot tub. The average nightly rate starts at $130.
✅Check prices and book your stay at Sierra Sands Family Lodge by clicking here!
📍 Luxury Option: Double JJ Resort
If you want to combine luxury with adventure, Double JJ Resort is a top pick. Located about 30 minutes from Silver Lake Sand Dunes, this resort features charming cabins, an indoor waterpark, horseback riding, and even a golf course. It’s perfect for families looking for a little bit of everything during their stay and it’s a short distance from Michigan Adventure theme park too. Nightly rates are around $250 to $350.
✅Check prices and book your stay at Double JJ Resort by clicking here!
FAQs
Planning a trip to Silver Lake Sand Dunes and have some questions? I’ve got you covered! Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help you prepare for your adventure.
Is Silver Lake, Michigan worth visiting?
Absolutely! Silver Lake, Michigan, is a slice of paradise for families looking for fun activities but at a relaxed vacation pace. With a mile of sand dunes separating two beautiful lakes, there’s no shortage of fun things to do like climbing, sledding, and even off-roading on the dunes.
How much does it cost to go to Silver Lake Sand Dunes?
Visiting Silver Lake Sand Dunes can vary in cost depending on your activities. If you have your own off-roading vehicle you’ll need an ORV permit, which costs around $26. Entry to the state park requires a day pass, which is about $11 for Michigan residents and $13 for non-residents.
If you want to rent an off-roading vehicle to zoom around the dunes, that costs several hundred dollars per hour. But there are plenty of things to do that don’t cost much including climbing and sledding down the dunes and spending the day on the beach.
The Takeaway
Silver Lake Sand Dunes’ unique location between Lake Michigan and Silver Lake makes it a stunning spot for both high-energy fun and peaceful relaxation. With its charming nearby towns, family-friendly activities, and scenic views, Silver Lake Sand Dunes is truly a must-visit destination in Michigan. So, pack your bags, gather the family, and get ready to explore all the incredible things to do near Silver Lake Sand Dunes! You’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
P.S. One the same weekend we went to Silver Lake Sand Dunes, we also spent a day in Holland, Michigan. It has an adorable downtown, gorgeous beach and lighthouse, and yummy Dutch food and breweries.
P.P.S. Another fun Michigan destination is Ann Arbor, a famous college town with a fantastic food, music, and shopping scene.
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