Silver Lake Sand Dunes spans 2,000 acres of towering sand dunes along Lake Michigan, this unique destination offers wide‑open riding areas, stunning views, and clearly defined zones designed for all experience levels.
The dunes feature three designated areas to ensure everyone can enjoy their visit: a Pedestrian Area for hiking and sightseeing, a designated ORV Area for ATVs and 4‑wheel‑drive vehicles, and the area operated by Mac Wood’s Dune Rides, where guided tours provide a perfect introduction and history to the dunes. Whether you’re riding for the first time or just exploring the sand, Silver Lake Sand Dunes offers something for everyone.
2026 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 15th.
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 2026 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, although 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.
More Important Information
- Pets are allowed along Lake Michigan on a leash and can ride in the ORV with you
- You may not consume or alcohol any time in the ORV area
- You can not drive your ORV on Golden Township roads unless your vehicle is street legal
- ORV towing rules: Only one vehicle or trailer may be towed at a time using a rigid tow bar with safety chains, operated by a properly licensed driver, and the towed vehicle or trailer must have required reflectors or stop lights when applicable.
ORV Rentals
Our local ORV experts are available to provide all the necessary vehicles, accessories, and support so that you can enjoy a safe and exciting adventure on the dunes. Come as you are and get ready for a perfect day at Silver Lake.
- 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.
Food & Shopping
- Silver Lake Whippy Dip (opening May 2nd)
- Golden Sands Golf Course & Bucket Bar (Opening April 3rd)
- Pleasant Valley Winery
- Fox Barn Winery
- Hart Pizza
- Annabelle Acres Vineyard & Winery
- Birch & Blossom (gift & flower shop in Downtown Hart offering a variety of DIY workshops and activities)
- Oceana Soap Company
- Michigan Basecamp
- Val Du Lakes Bar & Grill-Opens April 3 and open on weekends Thursday-Saturday
- Silver Scoops-Opens April 5 and open on weekends
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
- The Last Resort – Open year round
- Sierra Sands Family Lodge– Opens April 4 weekends and daily May-October
- Dunes Waterfront Resort– Opens May 1st
- Silver Sands – Open year round
- American Host Inn
Opening Day at Silver Lake Sand Dunes is April 1st — and it’s one of the best times to visit! April offers a quieter, more relaxed dune experience before the busy summer season begins, making it the perfect time for first‑time riders and new drivers to get comfortable on the sand. With fewer vehicles on the dunes, cooler spring temperatures, and wide‑open riding areas, beginners can build confidence while enjoying the full Silver Lake experience. Join us on Opening Day and take advantage of the calmer conditions to start your dune season the right way!
