Summer Solstice Weekend on Lake Michigan
June 21 through 23, 2019
LOCATION: P. J. Hoffmaster State Park, Michigan
SPONSOR: Martha Gitt marthagitt@yahoo.com
DESCRIPTION: Spend the first days of summer camping, kayaking, and hiking on Lake Michigan. We’ll enjoy crystal clear lake water, endless sandy beaches, lighthouses, local rivers, great hiking, and sunsets over Lake Michigan.
P.J. Hoffmaster State Park features over three miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, a 297-site modern campground, and towering Lake Michigan dunes. Miles of hiking and skiing trails offer stunning views of Lake Michigan and subtle beauty at every turn.
MEETING SITE: P.J. Hoffmaster State Park is located right on Lake Michigan, 9 miles north of Grand Haven and 13 miles south of Muskegon. The park address is 6585 Lake Harbor Road Muskegon MI, 49441, and the campground is located north of this address on Lake Harbor Road.
ITINERARY:
Friday June 21 Arrive and set up camp. There will be paddling and/or hiking opportunities throughout the day and early evening. The sun doesn’t set until 9:30!
Saturday June 22 Day paddle on Lake Michigan. We have many launching choices depending on surf conditions. Other options include the Grand River or Muskegon Lake if the lake is deemed too frisky.
Sunday June 23 Break camp and have a shorter day paddle on Lake Michigan. We may launch on the Grand River in Grand Haven and paddle 2 ¼ miles out to the lake, taking us past the lighthouses.
CAMPING: Seven campsites were reserved in January as coastal Michigan campgrounds fill up very quickly. Each campsite can fit a camper and one tent, or two tents. At the time this was posted there is room for three more campers and up to eight more tents. Contact the trip sponsor as early as possible to get one of these slots.
REGISTRATION: Please email Martha directly to get your camping spot at marthagitt@yahoo.com
EQUIPMENT: A sea kayak 15 foot or longer with sealed bulkheads is required and experience in rough water conditions and recues is highly recommended. The lake is a lot of fun to play in, but wind and waves can make it challenging.
GENERAL: Michigan State Park fees for non-residents are $9 per day or $33 per year
