Get Ready Dune Enthusiasts, Opening Day Is Almost Here!

The Silver Lake Sand Dunes are the perfect destination for dune and ATV enthusiasts. With three designated areas — the Pedestrian Area, ORV Area, and the area leased by Mac Woods Dune Rides — there’s something for everyone.

2024 Season Opening Information

Get ready to experience the thrill of the dunes! Silver Lake State Park opens for ORV use on April 1st, so start planning your adventure now. Early season is the perfect time to explore and take in all that Silver Lake has to offer. For a guided tour, don’t forget about Mac Wood’s Dune Ride – their first day starts on May 17th.

Silver Lake State Park ORV Hours

Silver Lake State Park ORV area is open April 1 – Oct. 31 each year.

• April 1 – April 30 (9 a.m. to 8 p.m.)
• May 1 – Sept. 15 (9 a.m. to 10 p.m.)
• Sept. 16 – Oct. 31 (9 a.m. to 8 p.m.)

Please note: Access to the ORV area and dunes is stopped ½ hour before closing each evening.

To be “Dune Ready” this 2024 season, follow this checklist:

• You are either one of the following:
  • 16 or older with a valid driver’s license.
  • 12 or older with an ORV Safety Training Certificate obtained through the Michigan DNR (these individuals may only operate ATVs and motorcycles and must be under parental supervision). Please note, children under 12 years old may not operate an ORV/ATV in Silver Lake State Park. Children under 12 may be passengers in ORV’s. Only one person is allowed to ride on an ATV-Quad wheel vehicle or dirt bike.
• You have an ORV Permit.
• You have an ORV Trails Permit.
• You have a Recreation Passport.
• If you have an off-road vehicle, it is 4-wheel drive.
• Your vehicle tires are filled to a maximum of 15 PSI.
• You have an international orange safety flag on your vehicle.
• If you have a 4-wheel drive vehicle, your safety flag is mounted to the front bumper of your vehicle, 10 feet off the ground.
• If you have an ATV or motorcycle, your safety flag is mounted to the rear of the vehicle, 10 feet off the ground.
• Your vehicle meets the sound level rules and testing requirements.
• Your vehicle has seat belts (occupants must be belted at all times).
• If your vehicle does not have a metal roof or a roll bar, occupants are wearing American National Standards Institute (ANSI) certified helmets or the equivalent at all times.
• If your vehicle does not have a windshield, occupants are wearing eye protection at all times.
• View all rules and requirements the Silver Lake State Park DNR lists directly on their website.

 

ORV Rentals

• Silverback Offroad ORV Rental – Opens April 1
• Silver Lake Buggy Rentals – Opens May 16
• Silver Lake Adventure – Opens May 20

Whether you arrive already prepared or not, DuneLand Off-Road Center has everything you need to make the most out of your trip. You can easily find them just off of the dunes, ready and waiting with fuel, parts, and more.

 

Something To Do All Summer Long

The busy season at Silver Lake & Hart Area starts on June 1st and continues until September 15th. Don’t miss out on the fun – there are plenty of exciting events happening throughout the summer!

• May 30 – June 2: Silver Lake Sand Dunes Jeep Invasion
• June 10 – 11: 51st National Asparagus Festival 
• July 4: Thunder Over the Dunes Fireworks
• August 4 – 5: Bronco Takeover
• August 22 – 26: Oceana County Fair
• September 8 – 9: Silver Lake Sand Dunes Apple & BBQ Festival

 

Food & Shopping

• Silver Lake Whippy Dip (opening May 4th)
• Golden Sands Golf Course & Bucket Bar
• Golden Sands Bucket Bar Opens April 5 noon
• Pleasant Valley Winery (opening May 24th)
• Fox Barn Winery
• Birch & Blossom (open now) **new gift & flower shop in Downtown Hart offering a variety of DIY workshops and activities**
• Val Du Lakes Bar & Grill-Opens April 4 weekends Thursday-Saturday
• Silver Scoops-Opens April 5 weekends

All the other shopping & dining options such as Fox Barn, Golden Sands, and Silver Lake Chicken Shack are open throughout April & May. Check their websites or thinkdunes.com for details!

Plan Your Silver Lake Sand Dune Trip, Today!

Start planning your escape to Silver Lake now! Enjoy sun and sand on the dunes, relax on the beach, or take part in some of the many recreational activities available. Book your stay and find out what makes this destination so special.

• Dunes Express Inn & Suites open year round
• Gateway Motel-Year round
• Sierra Sands Family Lodge-Opens April 4 weekends, 7 days a week May-October
• Dunes Waterfront Resort-Opens April 26 -Daily through October

Opening Day is April 1st – make sure you join us then!

Wintertime in Silver Lake-Hart.

Although the Silver Lake & Hart Area is well-known for summertime fun on the dunes, winter is also a great time to plan a visit. Slow down your pace with a silent sport and give cross-country skiing a try on over 15 miles of groomed trails or be one of the first to try fat biking on the dunes during the inaugural fat tire season on the dunes. There is still plenty of adventure to be had….let’s start planning!

Cross-Country Skiing Adventure at Silver Lake

Before your trek, you are going to want to grab a bite. Start your day at Stella’s Coffee House, located on E. Main Street in Hart. Open Monday through Saturday throughout the winter season, this coffee house serves fresh baked cinnamon rolls that you won’t want to pass up. The friendly staff is ready to prepare coffee or espresso made with beans sourced locally from Dark Water Coffee, perfect for fueling your XC adventure.

 

Pentwater Pathway

Now it’s time to hit the trails! Located between Silver Lake and Pentwater in the Pere Marquette State Forest, the Pentwater Pathway welcomes cross-country skiers and snowshoers to explore over 7 miles of trails divided into 4 loops. Thanks to the dedicated volunteers from the Oceana Cross Country Ski Association and Michigan DNR, these trails are well maintained throughout the winter months.

Download Pentwater Pathways: MAP

Crystal Valley Trails

For even more trail adventure, head to the Huron-Manistee National Forest, where you’ll find Crystal Valley Ski Trailoffering trails for all skill levels. Nine miles of trails offer 5 loops for all levels of hiking and groomed XC skiing during the winter months. Snowshoers are welcome but are asked to stay off the groomed path. Bikes and motorized vehicles are not allowed on the trail, so this is a trail system that is typically quieter than the Pentwater Pathways. And like the Pathway, cared for by the same group of volunteers, it is always in great shape!

Download Crystal Valley Trails: MAP

End your day the Big Hart Way!

After a day on the trails, you will be sure to have an appetite and we have just the place for you! Hart has a spot for great eats, no matter what your flavor. Big Hart Brewing Co. is a favorite local gathering spot for a mix of New and Old-World styles craft brews paired with fresh local food and excellent service.

Extend Your Stay

There are so many trails to explore that we are sure you’ll want to extend you stay. Because you are already in Hart, you’re only moments away from Dunes Express Inn and Suites and Gateway Motel and both are open year-round providing a cozy spot to warm up and rest for another day of trail adventure.

 

Fat Bike the Dunes!

December 15 until March 15^th, Silver Lake State Park has opened the 450-acre ORV area of the dunes for fat biking enthusiasts. Previously, bikes were not allowed in the park, but now they have their own season. The State Park and the MDNR have created this unique opportunity to explore the dunes in a whole new way. Read all about fat biking on the dunes and learn about the places that are open in winter to stay and grab a bite while visiting the area.

Businesses & Resources Open in Winter

Although some businesses close for the winter and early spring seasons, there are several places to stay and to eat in the Silver Lake & Hart area while visiting in the cooler weather months. Year Round business are listed below. Be sure to check for seasonal hours before heading out.

Hotels: 

 Dunes Express Inn and Suites2248 N Comfort Dr, Hart, (231)873-3456

Gateway Motel 3781 N. Oceana Dr., Hart, (231)873-2125

Restaurants Open in Winter Season:

BC Pizza 2327 N. Comfort Dr., Hart, MI 49420 (231-873-5555

Big Hart Brewing Company 4086 W Polk Rd, Hart (231)301-8226

Hart Pizza 105 E Main St, Hart, (231)873-4434

Kristi’s Pour House 211 E Main St, Hart (231)873-2378

La Fiesta 12 S State Rd, (231)498-3202

La Probadita 19 S State St, Hart (231)873-4069

Open Hearth 2430 N 56th Ave, Mears (231)873-8800

Pink Elephant Diner 207 S. State St., Hart (231)873-9912

Fast Food:

McDonald’s 4256 W Polk Rd, Hart (231)873-8786

Subway 2386 N Comfort Dr, Hart

 

Coffee Shops:

Lakeside Bagel & Smoothie Bar 39 S. State St., Hart (2310873-3566

Stella’s Coffee House 213 E. main St., Hart (2310301-8028

 

Close by Provisions:

Duneland Off Road Center, right outside the entrance to the ORV area 1951 N 24th Ave, Mears (231)873-4047 https://www.dunelandoffroadcenter.com/ Located next to the ORV parking area, Duneland offers tire maintenance, goggles, gloves, clothing, bottled water, ice, soft drinks, and snacks.

 

Hospitals: 

Minor injuries go to Mercy Lakeshore 72 S State St, Shelby, (231)861-2165

All other needs go to Mercy Health 1500 E Sherman Blvd, Muskegon (231)672-2000

 

Free Wifi:

Hart Public Library 415 S. State Street, Hart, public Wi-Fi available in the parking lot.

McDonald’s 4256 W Polk Rd, Hart, public Wi-Fi available in the parking lot.

 

It’s Never Too Early to Start Planning for Sand Season

Silver Lake State Park opens the dunes for ORV use April 1^st, and it will be here before you know it. Those in the know have already started making plans. Early season is a great time to a first exploration of the dunes for newcomers before the busy summer season. If you are a MacWood’s dune rider, their first day of the 2024 season will be May 17.

Then comes peak season, which begins June 1^st and extends through September 15^th. If this is the time you have in mind, then now is the time to take a look at our Lodging page to secure the best spot on choice dates at our local campgrounds and hotels. Don’t delay! Spots are filling daily!

Need help planning for on and off the dunes? Check out the Dunes section of our website for all of the dune information you will need. And for your time off the dunes we have created an itinerary of ideas to guide your planning for a memorable vacation that your family will be talking about for years!

As the vibrant greens of late summer transition into the vivid hues of fall, the Silver Lake region of Michigan unfolds its unique charm and beauty. The changing seasons offer an array of captivating activities, from refreshing water sports to tranquil nature exploration. Here’s a guide to soaking in the best of Silver Lake’s late summer and autumnal allure from August through October.

1. Late Summer Water Fun: 

Silver Lake’s warm late summer invites you to immerse yourself in water-based adventures. Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and gently glide across the sparkling lake waters, or opt for a thrilling jet ski ride. Silver Lake’s boating outfitters like Wave Club Water Sports Rentals can equip you with all you need for a memorable day out on the water. Learn more about all of the area’s Sports and Recreation offerings.

2. Savor the Harvest:

As the Silver Lake area transitions from late summer to autumn, the vibrant agricultural landscape bursts into activity. Enjoy the wholesome experience of hand-picking peaches and apples at local orchards, find your perfect Halloween pumpkin at Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo, or indulge in a scenic hayride. Don’t miss out on the seasonal splendor at local farm markets like Woodland Farm Market and Bakery, Up North Farm Market, and Country Dairy, where fresh dairy products, and an array of other locally-sourced produce capture the essence of the harvest season. Embrace the farm-to-table spirit and savor the autumnal flavors Silver Lake has to offer.

3. Trails for All Seasons:

The region’s numerous trails provide the perfect backdrop for late summer and fall excursions. Bike or hike the William Field Memorial Hart-Montague Trail State Park, where the changing leaves create a mesmerizing tapestry of color. For more trail options, check our blog post, Oceana County’s Outstanding Trails and Parks.

4. Silver Lake Sand Dunes:

The fun at the Silver Lake Sand Dunes isn’t confined to summer! Until October 31st, you can enjoy an exciting off-road adventure on the dunes. Local companies such as Silverback OffRoad ORV Rental and SunBuggy Silver Lake ORV Rentals offer all the gear you need to satisfy your thirst for adventure amidst the autumn beauty.

5. Autumn Color Tours:

One of the quintessential fall activities in Silver Lake is embarking on a color tour. As the leaves change, the area transforms into a vivid palette of red, orange, and yellow. Many local businesses offer color tours that guide you through the most stunning fall landscapes, providing fantastic photo opportunities and memories to last a lifetime.

6. Seasonal Delights:

Silver Lake’s food and drink scene shines in late summer and fall. Enjoy the fresh catch of the day at a local seafood spot, or savor seasonal dishes at farm-to-table restaurants. Don’t miss the autumnal brews at local breweries like Big Hart Brewing Co., or visit Golden Township’s Fox Barn Market & Winery for some delightful local wines.

7. Shop Local:

From late summer into the fall, Silver Lake and Hart’s local businesses offer unique finds. You’ll discover everything from handmade crafts to antiques, along with seasonal goodies like locally made jams, honeys, and pickles made from the bounty of the fall harvest.

Something For Everyone

Experiencing Silver Lake from the late summer into fall is a feast for the senses. Whether you are a thrill-seeker, a foodie, a nature lover, or a community-oriented visitor, there’s something for everyone. Pack your sunhat and your cozy sweater, and prepare to embrace the changing seasons in Silver Lake.

November offers horseback riding(bring your own horse)

December 15-March 15 Fat Tire Bikes allowed on the dunes

As the summer heat peaks, the Silver Lake and Hart region in Michigan brims with a variety of lively local happenings.

 

July Is Off With A Bang

We kick off July with the Stony Lake Sparkler 5K Run, starting at 8:00am on July 2nd, at the Stony Lake Inn. This event is a celebration of fitness and community spirit, featuring awards, medals, and commemorative t-shirts. Don’t miss the post-race party, complete with delicious food and lively music.

The excitement continues July 2nd with the Hart Sparks Fireworks Celebration. The evening starts with local businesses hosting street-side stations selling popcorn, glow sticks, and more. The highlight of the night is the fireworks display that begins at 10:15 PM, filling the downtown Hart sky with a burst of colors.

Mark your calendar for July 3rd as Pentwater gears up to light up the night sky over Lake Michigan with its annual fireworks display. Shot off the Pentwater pier, these spectacular bursts of color can be enjoyed from various vantage points—Charles Mears State Park, the pier itself, or even from a boat on the lake. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs and beach blankets, gather your friends and family, and settle in for a fantastic show!

On July 4th, one of the most anticipated local events of the summer takes place, the Thunder over the Dunes. This fantastic firework display is set against the unique landscape of Silver Lake’s sand dunes. As the clock reaches 10:00 PM, the night sky bursts into an explosion of color, illuminating the sand below. Bring your family and friends and join us on July 4th for this annual celebration – an awe-inspiring sight that encapsulates the spirit of summer.

 

Fun on the Dunes

Later in July, we have two special events that truly capture the heart of the Silver Lake community. On July 14th and 15th, we hold the Heroes on the Dunes event, a day designed to honor and appreciate our injured soldiers and their families. Guests of honor will have the opportunity to experience the very best that Silver Lake has to offer, including thrilling dune rides and an exclusive “Heroes Dinner.” A parade down the Lake Michigan beach and fun activities for kids make it a day of appreciation and community spirit.

Alongside Heroes on the Dunes, we also host the Blessing of the Duners on July 15th. This annual event provides a moment of reflection and goodwill, held amidst the festivities in the Silver Lake State Park ORV area. The event is a beautiful tradition that adds a touch of gratitude and camaraderie to our summer celebrations, reminding us all of the wonderful community we share here at Silver Lake and Hart.

 

Shop Local, Support Artists

Throughout the summer, our communities offer an array of events that bring together locals and visitors alike.

Be sure to make room in your schedule for the Hart Makers Market, a vibrant gathering of local vendors showcasing their handmade goods. Taking place every Thursday evening from 6-9pm throughout the summer, this market is located in the heart of Downtown Hart. With a max of ten booths available each week, you’re guaranteed an intimate shopping experience that supports local small businesses. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to purchase unique, locally-crafted items while supporting the creative community in Hart. Also, don’t forget to visit one of the many Farm Markets in the area, many of which have weekly events!

For art and craft lovers, the annual Mears Arts and Crafts Fair, a beloved tradition celebrated on the third Saturday of July. This year, on July 15th, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, head down to Johnson Square in downtown Mears. Here, you can explore a myriad of arts and crafts, handcrafted with care by local artisans. Don’t miss out on this inspiring event that truly encapsulates the local creative spirit!

 

Live Music, Family Fun

And let’s not forget about our fantastic outdoor concerts held in Silver Lake and Hart.

Get ready to experience a melodic treat every Tuesday evening from July 11th to August 8th, 2023. The Silver Lake Community Concert Series at Golden Township Park, generously sponsored by Mac Wood’s Dune Rides, offers a splendid array of live music. From 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm, sit back on your lawn chair and immerse yourself in diverse musical genres, all while enjoying the warm summer breeze.

But don’t stop there. Hart offers more live performances with the Hart Historic District Concert Series set in the charming historic district and Music On the Commons in downtown Hart. These events fill our summer evenings with melodic symphonies, making July and August the perfect time to soak up the local culture and revel in the tunes of the season.

 

Visit Silver Lake and Surrounding Areas

So, whether you’re a local or just visiting, make the most of this vibrant month in the Silver Lake and Hart area. From our Thunder over the Dunes Fireworks spectacle to the variety of community-led events throughout July, there’s something to inspire everyone. We hope to see you here, celebrating summer with us!

Throughout the summer season the Silver Lake & Hart area invites you to gather and enjoy live entertainment featuring local talent from around our region. Whether you are sipping wine at Fox Barn or visiting the Hart Commons, you are never too far from a live music venue during the warm summer months. Be sure to plan your trip around some of these terrific music filled events.

Sunday Sing Series at Golden Sands

On Sunday nights, Golden Sands Golf & Bucket Bar welcomes you to sit back and relax or dance the night away to entertainers from near and far. This family friendly event is held on the outdoor patio and is free of charge. Learn More

Silver Lake Community Concert Series

This summer, Mac Wood’s Dune Rides is generously sponsoring a summer concert series to be held at Golden Township Park in Mears on Tuesday evenings 6:30 – 8:00 pm.  Bring your lawn chair and enjoy live music and the warm summer breeze! Learn More

Music on the Commons

Thursdays from 7:00 to 9:00 pm, Downtown Hart features a variety of live outdoor music overlooking Hart Lake at the Hart Commons Park.  Enjoy yard games and a craft market within the social district where you can stroll with your drink until 11:00 pm.  Bring a lawn chair for seating during the free performances. Learn More

Night at the Lights

Sable Point Lighthouse Keepers Association invites you to the Night at the Lights free concert series with great music performed by local artists in the shadow of the Little Sable Point Lighthouse. They have a line-up of artists that will perform on Thursday evenings throughout the season. Learn More

Summer Concerts on Pentwater’s Village Green

Thursday nights at 8:00 pm from June 22 to August 31, Pentwater’s Village Green welcomes people of all ages to come enjoy the Pentwater Civic Band, which includes many members of the popular Scottville Clown band. Learn More

Silver Lake Chicken Shack

The Chicken Shake has an impressive live music line-up scheduled on weekends and holidays this summer. So come try the “Best Wings Ever” while you kick back and enjoy some terrific music. Learn More

Fridays at Fox’s

Fox Barn Winery in Mears has an excellent line up of musicians this summer for their Fridays at Fox’s live music series. Each Friday night between May 26 & September 1, gather from 7:00 -11:00 pm for only $5 for live entertainment while you sip your favorite wine. Learn More

Val Du Lakes Bar & Grill Karaoke & Live Music

On Friday nights duners gather at Val Du Lakes for Karaoke in Mears. Come share your own vocal stylings, or just enjoy those that have the courage to give it a try. This bar & grill also feature live music throughout the summer. Learn More

Hart Historic District Concert Series

Friday nights July 7 – August 4, Hart Historic District will present a series of outdoor concerts. Bring a chair or blanket and find your spot at the pavilion on the corner of Lincoln and Union Streets. All concerts begin at 7:00 pm, there is no admission, but donations are appreciated! Learn More

Just imagine yourself sitting outdoors in the warm summer sun, with a breeze off the lake and a drink in your hand, enjoying the local music stylings of some of the most talented musicians of our region. Sounds like the perfect way to end a summer day in Silver Lake. Plan your stay today!

Dune Season Has Officially Begun!

As the streets fill with people, local businesses reopen their doors, and the impressive Silver Lake Sand Dunes get ready for another thrilling season of dune riding. Simply put, it’s time for some fun in the sun in this beautiful lakeside town.

The Silver Lake Sand Dunes, with their rolling hills of sand, become a hub of excitement as the dune season starts. Whether it’s local restaurants serving delicious meals or unique shops selling all sorts of treasures, businesses are eager to welcome visitors.

For adrenaline junkies, the roar of engines fills the air as ORV rental businesses spring into action, offering everything from dune buggies to ATVs for an unforgettable dune adventure. Don’t worry if you’re a novice – Silver Lake’s dunes cater to everyone. With separate sections designated for different activities, everyone can enjoy the dunes in their own way. 

Learn more about getting Dune Ready before your visit.

 

2023 Area Attractions & Local Businesses

As we welcome the spring and summer seasons in Silver Lake, it’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in the wealth of key attractions and local businesses the area has to offer:

• Mac Woods Dune Rides, open now until September 30th
• Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo, open now and into the fall
• Little Sable Lighthouse Tours, open now until September 10th
• Hart Historic District, opens June 15 through September 15th
• Wave Club Water Sport Boat Rentals, opens May 26th
• Area Farm Markets, open now and into the fall

 

Excitement All Summer Long

From June 1st to September 15th, Silver Lake’s busy season is a time for celebration and community. A series of events fills the summer calendar, adding a festive flavor to your visit. events

• June 1 – 4: Silver Lake Sand Dunes Jeep Invasion
• June 10 – 11: National Asparagus Festival 50th Anniversary
• July 4: Thunder Over the Dunes Fireworks
• August 4 – 5: Bronco Takeover
• August 22 – 26: Oceana County Fair
• September 8 – 9: Silver Lake Sand Dunes Apple & BBQ Festival

With a host of exciting events and vibrant live music performances, there’s always something happening in Silver Lake.

 

Stay In Silver Lake

With so much to see and do, be sure to book local accommodations early, as spots fill up fast. The variety of accommodations, ranging from cozy inns to luxury resorts, ensures a comfortable stay for every traveler. Conveniently located near the heart of Silver Lake’s attractions, these establishments provide the perfect base for your summer adventure.

In Silver Lake, the dune season is a time of excitement, community, and adventure. With a variety of activities to enjoy, from the thrill of dune rides to the tranquility of lakeside picnics, and a summer-long schedule of events, there’s no better time to experience all that Silver Lake has to offer.

So don’t wait – book your stay today, and immerse yourself in the wonder and exhilaration of Silver Lake’s dune season!

 

Photo credit: Lindsay-De-Broka-FB

After the snow melts and flowers start to bloom, there’s no better time to shake off the winter blues and embark on a fun-filled day of adventure in the Silver Lake, Mears, and Hart areas. Located in Oceana County, these charming communities offer a variety of outdoor activities and unique local businesses to explore. Get ready to soak up the sun and create unforgettable memories with this springtime day trip itinerary.

 

Morning: A Scenic Hike and Delicious Breakfast

Kick off your day with a revitalizing hike, bike ride, or leisurely stroll along a part of the Hart-Montague Bicycle Trail State Park. This beautiful linear park stretches for 22 miles and offers a paved path perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling. Enjoy the picturesque scenery as nature comes to life after a long winter.

After your refreshing morning on the trail, treat yourself to a well-deserved breakfast at 1950’s style Pink Elephant Diner in Hart and a craft-brewed coffee at Stella’s Coffee House.  This cozy spot is a local favorite, offering mouthwatering pastries and freshly brewed coffee to fuel you for the day ahead.

 

Mid-Morning: Off-Roading Adventure on the Silver Lake Sand Dunes

Now that you’re energized, it’s time for some adrenaline-pumping fun on the Silver Lake Sand Dunes. Rent an off-road vehicle or side-by-side at a local rental shop like Silver Lake Buggy Rentals or Silverback Off Road ORV Rental, and set off on an exhilarating adventure across the dunes. Feel the excitement of conquering the sandy terrain, with the fresh spring air and vibrant blue sky above.

 

Lunchtime: Refuel with a Hearty Meal

After working up an appetite on the dunes, head over to Hart for a delicious lunch at Big Hart Brewery. This local gem offers a diverse menu of mouthwatering dishes, made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Pair your meal with one of their handcrafted beers, brewed on-site, for a true taste of Hart’s vibrant culinary scene.

 

Afternoon: Explore Local Shops and Attractions

Spend the afternoon strolling through the charming streets of Hart, discovering unique shops and attractions featuring five thrift shops downtown where you can sip on an adult beverage while your browse within Hart’s Social District. Don’t miss a visit to the Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society or the Historic District’s Museum and Village where you can learn about the area’s rich history and heritage. Make sure to stop by the Lakeside Coffee/Smoothie/Bagel Bar for a refreshing coffee or smoothie as you continue your exploration.

 

Late Afternoon: Relax by the Water

As the day winds down, head back to Silver Lake for some relaxation by the water. Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Wave Club Water Sport Boat Rentals and paddle around the lake, taking in the serene surroundings. Alternatively, find a peaceful spot along the shoreline and simply soak up the sun as you watch the sun dip below the horizon.

 

Visit the Silver Lake & Hart Area!

A springtime day in the Silver Lake, Mears, and Hart areas offers countless opportunities for adventure and enjoyment. From hiking and off-roading to exploring local businesses and attractions, there’s something for everyone in this enchanting region. Shake off those winter blues and embrace the beauty of spring in Oceana County!

It’s no secret the Silver Lake area is known for its splendid beauty and brilliant colors in the autumn months.

New for 2022! Silverback Offroad and Sunbuggy ORV Rentals will be open everyday until the ORV area closes October 31! Silver Lake ORV Rentals

With the dunes and lakeshore as a backdrop, the radiance of the trees always astounds. This year, we expect peak color to be mid October, and don’t forget the last day to enjoy riding the dunes is October 31st — so, plan your vacation accordingly!

Here are a few of our favorite fall festivals and activities you won’t want to miss while you’re here.

Silver Lake Area Fall Festivals

Steinfest Celebration at Golden Sands Golf Course & Bucket Bar

October 1st 4pm – 11pm

Commemorate the end of summer by attending the famed Steinfest at Golden Sands Golf Course & Bucket Bar. This favorite event, cherished by all golf and beer lovers, allows you to try your hand at keg rolling, keg tossing, an obstacle course, and of course — stein hoisting!

Shelby 2022 Harvest Festival – Farm To Table

October 1st, 2022  12pm-7pm

Put on by Shelby Township, The Village, The Chamber, and Schools of Shelby. The 2021 Harvest Festival is back. Saturday from 12pm to 7pm visit downtown Shelby (on Michigan Avenue) for a fresh farm to table meal, live music, antique car show, carnival games, and more. Pig roast serviced from 4pm-6pm.

Pentwater Area Fall Festivals

Head to nearby Pentwater to seek out even more autumn fun!

30th Annual Fall Fest Arts and Crafts Show

September 24th 10am – 5pm & September 25th 10am – 3pm

Stop by to do some shopping on the Village Green. Skilled crafters, artisans, and collectors will be selling their makes and wares all weekend — plus live music!

25th Annual Oktoberfest

October 9th 10 am

Join the long-standing tradition of Oktoberfest in downtown Pentwater. All-day activities include the famed Stout Stumble 5K, the Classic Car and Hot Rod Show, live music, great food, and much more!

More Family Activities and Sightseeing Near Silver Lake

Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo

Enjoy loads of family fun at Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo. Choose pumpkins in the Pumpkin Patch, find your way through the Corn Maze, pick your own apples, ride the BumpAlong Barrel Train, and much more! Fall activities and events run through October 31st.

Mac Wood’s Dune Rides

Take a 7-mile tour on a Mac Wood’s dune buggy and see the dunes like you never have before! Learn their history and how they were formed — plus what fulgurites and piping plovers are! Hurry to get your tickets now because Mac Wood’s will close for the season after October 2nd.

Craig’s Cruisers Family Fun Center

Spend the day go-karting, mini golfing, and bumper boating with the fam! Although hours are limited to just a few final Saturdays and Sundays (the season ends October 2nd), there’s still time to enjoy all that Craig’s Cruisers has to offer.

Getting a jumpstart on planning your autumn getaway?

Make sure the Silver Lake Sand Dunes are a part of your big adventure!

It all starts here. Check out our Lodging page to find the perfect place to stay. Our Food & Drink page features listings of popular area eateries, and you’ll find even more ideas for fall fun on our Things to Do page.

For additional information on the Silver Lake Sand Dunes and how best to enjoy your vacation at the dunes, take a look at our Visitors Guide.

Reflections on a Great 2021 Dune Season

As start the new year, we wanted to take this opportunity to reflect on our past season at the dunes.

Although as a region and a nation we faced many of the same challenges as we faced in 2020 this year, we are immensely proud of the way our community came together with creativity and tenacity. In the end, it was a record-breaking season — with well-over one million visitors at the State Park alone.

As October 31^st officially marks the final day of ORV access at the dunes, let’s take a look back at some of our most memorable moments of the season!

 

Huge Numbers of Visitors Mark Record-Breaking Season

The Silver Lake area welcomed an extraordinary number of visitors this year! We remained a favored destination for families and adventure-seekers from around the nation and the globe. We also shined as a tourism hotspot for Michiganders who wanted to stay closer to home over the summer holidays.

 

Popular Annual Events Draw Dune Lovers from Around the Nation

Three popular events made their marks on the calendar this year:

2021 Jeep Invasion

The Silver Lake Sand Dunes Jeep Invasion celebrated its 5^th year in 2021. The fun-filled weekend featured thousands of Jeeps from all over the state and nation. Trail rides, an off-road course, raffles, live music, and great food were just a few of the perks of this year’s event — a great success for all vehicle owners, Jeep enthusiasts, and friends who participated! First weekend in June 2022.

Thunder Over the Dunes

After being cancelled due to COVID-19 in 2020, the Silver Lake Sand Dunes Area Chamber of Commerce was thrilled to bring back Thunder Over the Dunes to commemorate Independence Day this July! Community members and visitors alike once again gathered to watch the brilliant display of fireworks over the dunes — undoubtedly a night to remember. July 4 2022

Apple BBQ Festival

2021 Apple & BBQ Festival returned after a one year pause in 2020. A record attendance of 15000+ people attended on Saturday to enjoy the largest craft fair ever, with 125 booths, 80+ registered cars in the Classic Car and ORV show, and lots of good food and music. The annual 5K race returned also this year along with the Kansas City BBQ Society BBQ cooking competition. September 9 & 10 2022

Be sure to check back for details on these events coming in 2022!

 

Mac Wood’s Dune Rides Celebrates Their 91^st Year in Business

Since 1930, Mac Wood’s Dune Rides has been a mainstay business of the Silver Lake area. Originally started by Malcom “Mac” Wood on what was then just a small plot of hilly dunes, the business quickly grew into a booming operation.

This year, Mac Wood’s celebrated their 91^st year in business. With each passing year, the establishment continues to introduce new families to the dunes and the beauty and adventure they have to offer.

 

Make a Winter Visit to Silver Lake

Although the dunes are closed to ORV access until April 1, 2022 there’s always more fun to be had in the winter — from hiking and biking to snowmobiling and cross-country skiing against the snow-white landscapes of winter.

Silver Lake State Park & the dunes are available for hiking

Be sure to check the websites of area hotels, shops, and restaurants before you book as some establishments have limited fall hours. You can also venture into nearby downtown Hart for everything you need.

Finally, no matter when you make your plans for a Silver Lake vacation, be sure to share your photos and videos with us! Use the hashtag #ThinkDunes when posting your memories, and we may feature you on one of our social media pages!

Thank you for another wonderful season at the dunes, and we hope to see you again soon in Silver Lake!