Versluis Park is Your Go-To Beach
Versluis Park, among more than 50 west Michigan beaches AND one of the 85+ playgrounds, is unique around west Michigan.
The weather was beautiful. The beach beckoned…but which one? I thought of driving out to Lake Michigan, but didn’t really want to make the commitment.
Then I remembered Versluis Park in Plainfield Township. I had driven by a few times, but never visited. It was about 15 minutes from our house So it was settled…let’s go!
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Versluis Park at a Glance
- One-mile paved biking/jogging trail
- Accessible beach ramp
- Kayak and canoe launch
- Two playgrounds
- Modern restrooms.
- Covered eating area near the beach
- Grills and picnic tables throughout the park.
- Sand volleyball courts and horseshoe pits
Know the Rules at Versluis Park
3650 Versluis Park NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
I was struck by the multitude of rules posted at the gate.
I spoke with the gate attendant and he told me the lake is in an old gravel pit- which means there’s a 30ft drop off right after the swim rope.
And they want to make sure people are safe while they swim.
And at Versluis, that means rules.
Here’s a synopsis:
- No food on the beach (they don’t want to encourage geese and ducks to hang out).
- Alcohol is prohibited on park property.
- No glass on the beach (they don’t want people getting hurt by broken glass).
- No flotation devices (rafts, swimmies, etc), except for Coast Guard approved life jackets.
- No swim masks, flippers, snorkels, etc. Goggles are okay as long as they don’t cover the nose.
- Parents must be in the water with children under 10 years old.
Now that we’ve got the rules covered, let’s talk about the fun stuff.
More About Versluis Park
Versluis Park no longer has an admission fee!
Versluis Park is great for toddlers as long as you are ready to go in the water with them.
Bring your beach toys for sand play, bring a coast guard approved life jacket for swimming, and spend time on both of the play structures.
The small beach area, swim area, and close proximity to the restrooms make this a great park for families with toddlers.
Modern restrooms are available, not far from the beach and playground area. The women’s restroom has a baby changing table in the larger stall.
A foot wash station is a short distance away from the restrooms.
Versluis Park has an abundance of picnic tables throughout the wooded section of the park.
They also have a covered eating pavilion and charcoal grills.
Versluis Park Beach Hours
Versluis Park swimming beach hours are:
- Memorial Day – June: Sun – Thurs, 8 AM – 9 PM. Fri 11 AM – 9 PM
- July – Labor Day: Sun – Thurs, 8 AM – 9:30 PM, Fri 8 AM – 9:30 PM
The rest of the year, typically when public schools are in session, Versluis Park is open from 7:00 AM to sunset.
Tips for Visiting Versluis Park
Versluis Park has 2 great playsets.
One is on the beach and the other is near a picnic area.
There are several types of facilities, but no food for sale.
There is a drinking fountain/shower/foot wash as well as a basic bathroom area.
No food is for sale in the park. If you plan on eating in the park, pack a picnic or hit McDonalds (just across the street) before you come in.
You may not walk out of the park and then return…foot traffic is not allowed – it’s a good idea to plan ahead before your visit.
Bring along your beach gear.
I brought along a bucket and shovels and camp chairs and we stayed for about 2 hours.Â
The beach was full, but not crowded. The beach is not all that big, so be prepared to be close to other people while you play in the sand.Â
The water was clear and clean, although I did overhear other people talking about how it was covered in cottonwood just a few weeks earlier, so be aware of that possibility earlier in the season.
This is a good spot to fish.
Go ahead and bring a pole.
Versluis Park is great for toddlers as long as you are ready to go in the water with them.
Bring your beach toys for sand play, a Coast Guard approved life jacket for swimming, and spend time on both of the play structures.
Many of the picnic tables and one of the playgrounds are in shaded areas.
The beach is in full sun, so come prepared for a warm time if you’re headed to play in the water.
FAQs
Are dogs allowed at Versluis Park?
No
How long is the hiking trail at Versluis Park?
There is a one mile paved walking path at Versluis Park.
What is the difficulty level of the hiking trail?
This is an easy trail.
How long should you spend at Versluis Park?
Plan for at least two hours if you’re hitting the beach and an additional hour or so for the other parts of Versluis Park.
Is Versluis Park accessible?
Yes!
Note: The water at Versluis Park has been under scrutiny in light of PFAS contamination found in neighboring areas. According to Plainfield Charter Township, The state has tested the water in Versluis Lake for PFAS multiple times, with the most recent test conducted last July. The results of these tests have been consistent and indicate that PFAS levels in Versluis Lake are comparable to levels found in the Great Lakes. Based on this, the state has determined that the lake is safe for swimming and recreation. To download and view the latest test results summary letter, click here. To download and view the Versluis Lake test site map, click here.
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.
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Do people really pay $8 to go there? I mean were there others there?
$8 really seems a bit steep and then not allowing foot traffic. Wow.
Just seems really (really) uppity to me. And uppity never did feel “family friendly.”
I guess what I’m really saying is, you couldn’t pay me $8 to take my kids there!
Just wanted to suggest another alternative too, Long Lake.
Take 131 North to 17 mile road, turn left (west) and go a few miles (you’ll pass Algoma and Pine Island, and Olan Lakes road) then just before Long Lake road is the entrance to the park.
They have a playground, swimming area, (no lifeguard) picnic areas and other areas to fish around the park (no fishing allowed in the swimming area) and a changing house with bathrooms.
And….. it’s all FREE and well maintained by the Kent County Parks.
When I went to Versluis Lake it was quite busy. They charge by the vehicle, so I guess if you took a van load it would be a better deal than a 2-seater. I know that Plainfield Township residents can get a season pass for $15 because their taxes support the park. Maybe they do it so it doesn’t get too crowded? It isn’t a huge park, and I’m thinking that it would be overwhelmed by people if it were free.
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