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Charles Mears
Overview
Charles Mears State Park offers a quintessential Michigan camping experience located directly on the shores of Lake Michigan. This park is widely recognized for its stunning sandy beach and proximity to the charming village of Pentwater. RV travelers will find a well-maintained campground that balances natural beauty with the convenience of being within walking distance of local amenities. It serves as a premier destination for those seeking a vibrant, beachside atmosphere during the summer months.
Location & Surroundings
The park is situated at the north end of Pentwater, nestled between the lakefront and the Pentwater Channel. The surrounding landscape is defined by rolling sand dunes and the vast, crystal-clear horizon of the lake. To the east, the village offers a picturesque backdrop of historic architecture and boutique storefronts. This unique positioning allows visitors to enjoy a secluded beach feel while remaining just a short stroll away from the heart of the downtown district.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground features 175 paved sites, many of which provide 50-amp electrical service. While the sites are arranged in a relatively open layout, the level surfaces are ideal for larger RVs. Modern restrooms and shower facilities are centrally located for convenience. Other notable features include a designated pet-friendly area, a private swimming beach, and a playground for families. A dump station and potable water are also available on-site to support self-contained travelers.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts can hike the trail up Old Baldy, a prominent sand dune that provides a panoramic view of Lake Michigan and Pentwater Lake. Fishing is a popular pastime along the pier, where anglers often catch perch and salmon. Beyond the park boundaries, the village of Pentwater invites visitors to explore its art galleries and local eateries. Boating is also a major draw, with several marinas nearby facilitating access to both the big lake and the inland harbor.
Who This Park Is Best For
Charles Mears State Park is an ideal choice for families and social campers who enjoy a bustling environment and frequent beach access. It is perfect for those who prefer to park the RV and navigate on foot, as everything from the water to the downtown area is easily accessible. If you prioritize spectacular sunsets and a community-oriented camping vibe, this park provides a memorable Great Lakes getaway that is hard to match.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
User Reviews
Ty Tech90
Sandy park with tight driveway. Wonderful beach access from most coastal sites. The beaches and dunes made for wonderful views. The concessions at the beach was very convenient for ice cream and most beach supplies. Would recommend this park to anyone looking to enjoy Pentwater and surrounding areas
Sally Weaver
Best sandy beach in west Michigan. Does anyone else get annoyed with people putting chairs along the waters edge to save spots. Then they don't come down to the beach until much later? Parents with kids love these spots and are very frustrated. Restrooms need a definite update. Boardwalks to water's edge are nice for older beach goers, wagons and physically challenged.
Joe Lantz
One of my favorite places in the U.S. but I don't want to tell anyone about it because I don't want to make it too popular! It is a beautiful spot on Lake Michigan. Swimming, Sand Dunes, Camping. It is a clean beautiful place with some of the best sunset you will ever see. Booking a spot in the campground can be difficult so plan well in advance.
ELOEL
Always enjoy this state park year after year. Crowds are of tolerable size. Some board walks through sand to get you and your head closer to the beach which helps if you have young kids and wagons with beach stuff. There is a pet friendly area near the pier be aware many signs tell where pets and glass are not allowed. It looks like that part had been expanded since we were there two years ago. This year we visited on a Tuesday from 10 am - 4pm so no problem finding a close parking spot.
Katie Downey
Mears State Park has long been one of our go-to spots for summer camping. The location is fantastic, right near the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan, with easy access to the beach, scenic dunes, and the charming town of Pentwater. The natural beauty and overall vibe of the park are what keep us coming back year after year. However, during our most recent visit, we were really disappointed with the condition of the campground facilities. The campsites have always been on the smaller side and very close together, so privacy isn’t a strong point here but that’s something we’ve come to accept. What really stood out this time was the lack of cleanliness in the bathrooms and shower areas. Over the course of the week, the restrooms were consistently dirty and clearly not being maintained as frequently as needed. One shower stall had mold and mildew visibly growing on the walls, and shockingly, there was even human waste left in a wastebasket, something completely unacceptable in any public campground. It was disturbing and gave us serious concerns about hygiene and park oversight. We still love the location and the atmosphere at Mears, but it’s hard to overlook the decline in maintenance. We truly hope the park steps up its cleaning protocols and attention to the facilities especially during the busy season. Until then, campers should come prepared with lower expectations for bathroom.