Michigan Lighthouse Guide and Map: Oceana County Lighthouses

Oceana County is located on the Lake Michigan shoreline between Muskegon and Ludington, and is home to the stunning Silver Lake State Park. More than 26,000 Michiganders call this county home, and the county is also referred to as the “asparagus capital of the world” due to its agricultural production. The county is home to more than 26 miles of sandy shoreline on Lake Michigan and three lighthouses, all located in state parks. Today we will show you how to visit the lighthouses of Oceana County and tell you a little bit about them.

Little Sable Point Lighthouse – Located in the southern unit of Silver Lake State Park, the Little Sable Point Lighthouse dates back to 1874 and is over 100 feet tall. It used to be known as the Petite Point Au Sable Light and there used to be a dwelling at the site as well. Today only the brick tower remains, and it is open for tours thanks to the Sable Points Lightkeepers Association. The beach here is also a popular spot for swimming and relaxing in the summer months.

The main unit of Silver Lake State Park is massive, with 2,000 acres of sand dunes and an ORV area as well as a campground with 200 sites. Mac Woods Dune Rides offers excursions through the dunes for those that don’t have their own off-road vehicle. From Silver Lake State Park it is a half hour drive north to Pentwater, where two unassuming but important pier lights can be found.

Pentwater Pier Lights – A pair of often overlooked lights can be found at Charles Mears State Park in Pentwater. The Pentwater pier lights mark the channel that connects Lake Michigan to Pentwater Lake. “The current South Pierhead Light stands 25 feet tall, with the North Pierhead Light at 17 feet tall. Each is considered one of the few remaining pier range light systems located on the Great Lakes.” Mears State Park is another popular spot for summer recreation with its beautiful beach on Lake Michigan and a campground with 175 sites.