Trails and Beaches and Parks Galore at Kirk Park
Beach-going is a Michigander favorite pastime, and Kirk Park is one of those beaches that keeps us coming back! Out of all the parks, beaches, and trails, Kirk Park stands among the best.
Kirk Park sits about halfway between Holland and Grand Haven, so it’s not too busy and even has an off-leash dog beach for our four-legged family members.
Along with the off-leash dog beach, the park also boasts an additional beach, spectacular views from atop their wooded dunes, and fantastic cross-country skiing in winter months.
Kirk Park at a Glance
9791 Lakeshore Dr, West Olive, MI 49460
The natural hiking paths wind through hardwoods, creeks, and hills.
Features here also include picnic tables, modern restrooms and a reservable picnic shelter and lodge.
Tips for Your Family Trip to Kirk Park
Even though there is lots of shade throughout the park since it’s a forested dune, there’s full sun on the beach. Don’t forget the sunscreen!
There are NO lifeguards on duty at Kirk Park beach, so keep an eye on the little ones, and bring the PFD gear along.
Bring the Dog to the Beach
Dog lovers love Kirk Park since dogs are allowed on the beach here!
Let your dog roam off-leash at the dog beach, which is on the south end. Dogs are allowed here year-round.
Be careful not to wander into the north end of the beach where dogs are not allowed, whether leashed or unleashed.
Check out the full list of rules here.
Hike Through the Woods at Kirk Park
Most of the trails are through densely wooded terrain, so take mosquito and tick prevention measures.
The trail is 1.2 miles and is open year-round.
The hiking along the dune ridges involves many stairs (over 500!) and steep drop-offs, which may prove very challenging for some hikers and gives it a “difficult” rating.
Dogs are allowed, but must be leashed while on the trail.
Make Time to Play
Kirk Park recently got a much-desired upgrade to its playground.
Previously the playground was a trek from the beach and in a heavily wooded area. Now the playground is accessible to all and is situated right next to the parking lot.
Know Before You Go
Location
9791 Lakeshore Ave, West Olive, MI 49460
website
Hours
March 1 – October 15: 7 AM – 10 PM
October 16 – February 28: 7 AM – 8 PM
Fees
Admission fees depend on the time of year you visit. There is a motor vehicle parking fee from Memorial Day weekend – Labor Day weekend. Check here for rates and to purchase passes.
FAQs
Are dogs allowed at Kirk Park?
Yes! Kirk Park is one of the most dog-friendly beaches in West Michigan.
Dogs are welcome on the park’s trails and designated dog beach, though seasonal restrictions apply in some areas.
Are there hiking trails at Kirk Park?
Yes. Kirk Park features wooded dune trails and scenic overlooks with views of Lake Michigan. A paved path also leads to an overlook deck, making part of the park accessible.
Is Kirk Park free to visit?
Kirk Park requires a parking permit during the summer season, typically from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Outside of that period, visitors can generally park for free. Check current Ottawa County Parks rates before your visit, as fees and permit options may change.
Does Kirk Park have an off-leash dog beach?
Yes. The south end of the park features a dedicated off-leash dog beach where dogs can run and swim in Lake Michigan. Dogs must be leashed while traveling to and from the dog beach area.
Is Kirk Park good for families?
Yes. In addition to its Lake Michigan beach, Kirk Park offers a playground, picnic areas, scenic overlooks, and nature trails.
Can dogs go on the main beach?
From May 1 – September 30, dogs are not allowed on the north (main) beach. During that time, dogs must use the designated dog beach on the south end of the park. Seasonal rules may differ during the off-season.
What makes Kirk Park unique?
Kirk Park stands out because it combines a sandy Lake Michigan beach, wooded dune trails, scenic overlooks, family-friendly amenities, and one of the area’s most popular off-leash dog beaches—all in one destination.
Is Kirk Park accessible?
Kirk Park offers several accessible amenities, including barrier-free parking, accessible restrooms, a barrier-free playground, picnic facilities, and a paved trail leading to a scenic Lake Michigan overlook.
However, there is currently no accessible path to the beach itself, so visitors using wheelchairs or other mobility devices can enjoy the views, but may have difficulty reaching the sand. Some of the hiking trails involve stairs and are not accessible either.
Map of Grand Rapids Parks and Trails
Find your next outdoor adventure near you with this map of the best hiking trails, playgrounds, and parks in West Michigan.
With Kruse Park and Kirk Park dog beaches closed in 2020, where can dogs swim in Lake MI near Grand Haven in September? Thanks
Is the beach fenced in for the dogs?
Hi Teri, the dog beach is not fenced in, so if you have a pup who needs limits, leashes of any length are welcome.