7 Shocking Secrets And Must-Do Activities At Coast Guard Park Ferrysburg (The Former US Rifle Range)
Coast Guard Park in Ferrysburg, Michigan, is far more than just a local recreation area; it is a critical hub for the entire Tri-Cities' dune-land trail system and a site steeped in unique U.S. military history. Located at 18161 North Shore Drive, this sprawling park is the definitive starting point for adventurers looking to explore the famed North Ottawa Dunes, offering a blend of world-class sports facilities and rugged, protected dune wilderness. As of December 23, 2025, the park remains a year-round destination, with its trails accommodating everything from summer hiking to winter cross-country skiing, making it an essential visit for West Michigan outdoor enthusiasts.
The park’s name itself holds a fascinating secret, one that connects the quiet Ferrysburg community to the powerful heritage of the U.S. military. This deep-dive guide will unlock the most surprising facts and provide a complete itinerary for maximizing your visit to one of Ottawa County’s premier recreational treasures.
The Hidden History and Full Park Profile: Coast Guard Park at a Glance
The history of Coast Guard Park is the first of its surprising revelations. While nearby Grand Haven is famously known as "Coast Guard City, USA," the Ferrysburg park’s name is a direct historical marker, not just a tribute. The land that constitutes the park today was officially conveyed to the City of Ferrysburg by the U.S. Government in 1973. Before becoming a public park, this property served a specific and important military function: it was the former U.S. Coast Guard Rifle Range on North Shore Road. This unique past explains the name and underscores the area's deep connection to the United States Coast Guard.
The City of Ferrysburg has significantly improved the park over the decades, notably adding a picnic shelter and a play area in 1995, transforming the former military site into a family-friendly recreational space.
- Official Name: Coast Guard Park
- Address: 18161 North Shore Dr., Ferrysburg, MI 49409
- Owner/Manager: City of Ferrysburg / Ottawa County Parks & Recreation Commission
- Historical Origin: Former U.S. Coast Guard Rifle Range (Conveyed to City in 1973)
- Operating Hours: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Daily)
- Primary Function: Sports complex, picnic area, and trailhead for North Ottawa Dunes.
Unlocking the North Ottawa Dunes: Your Trailhead to 10 Miles of Wilderness
The most significant feature of Coast Guard Park is its role as the primary trailhead for the vast North Ottawa Dunes park system. This expansive natural area features approximately ten miles of interconnected hiking trails that traverse protected dune land, linking Coast Guard Park directly to other major West Michigan destinations like North Beach Park and P.J. Hoffmaster State Park.
The trails here are a must-do for any serious hiker or nature lover. They offer a diverse landscape, from rolling forest shade to challenging dune climbs, and are well-marked to accommodate various skill levels.
The Coast Guard Park Loop: A Perfect 3.2-Mile Hike
For visitors seeking a manageable and rewarding experience, the Coast Guard Park Loop is the recommended route. This looped trail is approximately 5.2 kilometers (about 3.2 miles) in length. It is generally graded as an easy to intermediate hike, making it accessible for families and casual walkers while still offering enough elevation change to be a satisfying workout.
- Trail Activities: Hiking, Walking, Trail Running, Cross-Country Skiing (ungroomed in winter).
- Restrictions: No bikes or horses are permitted on the trails, ensuring a peaceful, natural experience.
- Dune System Connection: The trails seamlessly connect with the adjacent Kitchel-Lindquist-Hartger Dunes Preserve, creating an even larger network for exploration.
The Observation Deck: Ferrysburg’s Best-Kept Secret View
Nestled within the park's dune system is a feature that provides one of the most scenic and rewarding payoffs in the entire Tri-Cities area: a dedicated Dune stairs & deck with scenic Lake Michigan views. This observation deck is a crucial stop for photographers and anyone looking to experience the majesty of the Great Lakes.
The climb up the dune stairs can be challenging, but the panoramic views from the deck are well worth the effort. From this vantage point, visitors can observe the vast expanse of Lake Michigan, the protected dune landscapes, and the surrounding forest canopy. It’s an ideal location for watching the sunset over the water or for birdwatching, as the area is known for its diverse avian life.
While the park is not directly on the Lake Michigan shoreline, the height of the dunes provides the necessary elevation for spectacular vistas. This deck serves as a silent tribute to the Coast Guard's mission of safeguarding the waters, offering a commanding view that was likely beneficial during the site’s time as a rifle range.
Amenities and Recreational Entities: Beyond the Trails
While the dunes and trails are the park's natural centerpiece, Coast Guard Park is also a comprehensive recreational facility for the local community and visitors. The flat, developed areas of the park offer a wide array of amenities that cater to sports, family gatherings, and general recreation, making it a perfect all-day destination.
- Sports Facilities: The park features multiple fields and courts, including baseball and soccer fields, basketball courts, and tennis courts.
- Picnic and Play Areas: Large picnic shelters, grills, and numerous picnic tables are available for public use, often utilized for community events. A dedicated play area ensures children have plenty of space for fun.
- Visitor Services: Modern restrooms are available during the warmer months, and ample parking is provided for trailhead access.
The park’s location on North Shore Drive also places it in close proximity to other significant natural entities, solidifying Ferrysburg's reputation as an outdoor haven. These nearby areas contribute to the park's high topical authority and are excellent for extending your visit:
- Ferrysburg Nature Preserve: A 43-acre tract of undeveloped dune property, offering additional, quieter exploration opportunities.
- Kitchel-Lindquist-Hartger Dunes Preserve: Directly connected to the North Ottawa Dunes system, this 114-acre preserve offers nature trails through protected dune land adjacent to the Grand River.
- Mike Herman Park: Another local Ferrysburg park that adds to the community's green space network.
- Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival: Although the annual picnic for the festival has sometimes relocated (such as to Mulligan's Hollow in a recent year), the park remains a spiritual and historical entity connected to the event that draws thousands to the area.
Whether you are a local resident looking for a place to play a game of tennis, a dedicated hiker planning a multi-park trek through the North Ottawa Dunes, or a history buff curious about the former U.S. Coast Guard Rifle Range, Coast Guard Park in Ferrysburg offers a unique and layered experience that solidifies its status as a must-visit West Michigan landmark.
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