Brimley State Park
Lake Superior’s Warmest Swimming
Brimley State Park sits on the sandy shores of Whitefish Bay, known for having some of the warmest swimming waters on Lake Superior. A convenient gateway to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula attractions.
Large Modern Campground
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Sites | 237 |
| Electric | 20/30 amp (some 50 amp) |
| Amenities | Hot showers, flush toilets, dump station |
| Mini-Cabin | Sleeps 4 |
| Group Area | Up to 25 people |
Reservations: MIDNRReservations.com or (800) 447-2757, up to 6 months ahead.
Nearby Attractions
- Soo Locks: 20 minutes north in Sault Ste. Marie
- Tahquamenon Falls: 45 minutes east
- Point Iroquois Lighthouse: Nearby scenic drive
⚠️ Pets: Welcome on leash, but not allowed on the beach.
Is Lake Superior warm enough to swim?
At Brimley, yes! Whitefish Bay has some of the warmest waters on Lake Superior. Summer temperatures can reach 65–70°F on warm days.
Things to Do
Michigan’s state park system — one of the largest in the nation — stretches across two peninsulas surrounded by four Great Lakes, offering extraordinary variety. Activities include swimming and sunbathing on freshwater beaches that rival ocean coastlines, hiking sand dune bluffs with panoramic lake views, fishing for walleye, bass, and salmon in rivers and Great Lakes tributaries, camping in pine forests steps from the beach, kayaking along dramatic Pictured Rocks-style shorelines, mountain biking through rolling hardwood forests, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in the Upper Peninsula, and exploring historic lighthouses dotting the coastline. Michigan’s state parks include some of the finest freshwater beaches in the world.
Best Time to Visit
Michigan’s park season centers on summer (June–August), when Great Lakes beaches warm up, trails are fully accessible, and campgrounds are buzzing with activity. Lake Michigan water temperatures peak in August (65–75°F). Fall (September–October) brings spectacular foliage — the Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula peak in late September, while southern parks follow in October. Spring (April–May) is muddy but great for wildflowers and waterfall viewing. Winter transforms many parks into Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing destinations. The Upper Peninsula receives 200+ inches of annual snowfall, creating a winter recreation paradise. Recreation Passport ($17) required for vehicle entry — add it to your license plate registration for the best value.
Visitor Tips
Michigan state parks require a Recreation Passport ($17 for Michigan residents, $34 for non-residents) for vehicle entry. Purchase it with your license plate renewal for automatic access all year. Camping reservations are made through the Michigan DNR reservation system up to 6 months in advance. Lakefront campsites at popular parks like Holland, Ludington, and Traverse City sell out within hours of opening. Bring warm layers even in summer — Great Lakes breezes can drop temperatures significantly near the water.
Explore More Michigan State Parks
Brimley State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Michigan. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Michigan guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
