The park's original land was a fruit orchard owned by the Ramsdell family before being deeded to the state in 1921.
The CCC-built shelter building features unique masonry work indicative of Great Depression-era public works projects.
The park elevation sits approximately 100 feet above the surface level of Lake Michigan.
The beach area is susceptible to dynamic changes in size depending on annual lake water levels.
The park is located on a major bird migration corridor along the Lake Michigan coastline.
Orchard Beach State Park is situated on a high bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, characterized by its combination of glacial moraine cliffs and accessible sandy beach areas. The park contains a historic brick shelter building constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. A metal staircase connects the upper bluff campground to the shoreline. The park encompasses 201 acres of land covered largely by forest, including beech, maple, and hemlock trees. It features a concentrated campground layout with over 160 modern sites for tents and recreational vehicles. Erosion management remains a primary focus due to the park’s position on the bluff's edge. It provides panoramic views of the Lake Michigan horizon and sunset vistas across the water.
The observation area near the historic CCC shelter provides the most expansive elevated view of the lake.
Bring sturdy footwear for the long staircase connecting the bluff to the beach.
Pack binoculars for bird watching, especially during spring and fall migration periods.
Reserve campsites well in advance, as the bluff-view sites are in high demand during summer weekends.
Do not attempt to climb the steep, unmaintained slopes of the bluff, as the sand is unstable and prone to sliding.
The campground is seasonal and typically operates from spring through late autumn.
Stay on marked trails to prevent cliff erosion; maintain quiet hours in the campground.
