Sterling State Park
Sterling State Park is Michigan’s only state park on Lake Erie—1,300 acres of sandy beaches, man-made lagoons, and premier walleye fishing along a mile of Great Lakes shoreline. With 256 modern campsites, ten full-amenity cottages, and easy access from Toledo and Detroit, this park is a Southeast Michigan treasure for anglers, beach lovers, and camping families alike.
📢 Spring 2026 Trail Updates
- Marsh & River Raisin Heritage Connector Trails: Major upgrades nearing completion!
- Brief Closure: 40-foot railroad crossing section being paved (Spring 2026)
- 2026: Final year of ARPA funding for Michigan state park improvements
Michigan’s Only Lake Erie Park
| Park Details | Information |
|---|---|
| 📐 Size | 1,300 acres |
| 🏖️ Beach | 1 mile sandy Lake Erie shoreline |
| 🌊 Lagoons | Man-made lagoons & marshes |
| 🎣 Famous For | Walleye & perch fishing |
| 🏆 Distinction | Michigan’s ONLY Lake Erie state park |
Campground – 256 Modern Sites
| Campground Info | Details |
|---|---|
| ⛺ Total Sites | 256 campsites |
| 🅿️ Surface | Mostly paved |
| ⚡ Standard | 20-amp or 30-amp service |
| ⚡ Premium | 76 sites with 50-amp service |
| 🌊 Views | Many sites with Lake Erie views |
Cottages – Full Amenities
| Cottage Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏠 Number | 10 cottages |
| 👥 Capacity | 7 guests each |
| 📅 Minimum Stay | 2 nights |
| 🛎️ Amenities | Full-amenity units |
Fishing – Walleye & Perch
| Fishing Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 🐟 Target Species | Walleye, yellow perch |
| 🎣 Shoreline | Lake Erie piers |
| 🎣 Lagoons | Calm water fishing spots |
| 🚤 Boat Access | Boating access site available |
Beach & Swimming
| Beach Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏖️ Length | 1 mile sandy shoreline |
| 🌊 Water | Lake Erie |
| 🧪 Water Quality | Routinely monitored (E.coli advisories possible) |
Lagoons & Wildlife
| Habitat Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 🦆 Lagoons | Man-made lagoons & marshes |
| 🦅 Birding | Diverse bird species |
| 🐢 Wildlife | Important habitat refuge |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sterling State Park really Michigan’s only Lake Erie park?
Yes! Sterling State Park is Michigan’s only state park on Lake Erie. While Michigan has over 100 state parks, this is the sole one offering direct access to the Great Lake that forms the state’s southeastern border. Its 1,300 acres include a mile of sandy beach, man-made lagoons, and renowned fishing grounds.
What kind of camping is available?
Sterling State Park offers 256 modern campsites, most with paved pads. Electrical service ranges from 20-amp to 30-amp, with 76 sites offering 50-amp service for larger RVs. Many sites feature Lake Erie views and are close to the beach. Additionally, 10 full-amenity cottages accommodate up to 7 guests with a 2-night minimum stay.
What fish can you catch at Sterling State Park?
Sterling State Park is famous for its excellent walleye and yellow perch fishing! You can fish from piers along the Lake Erie shoreline or in the calm waters of the park’s lagoons. A boat launch provides offshore access for even better walleye opportunities. The nearby River Raisin also offers quality fishing.
Is the beach safe for swimming?
The mile-long sandy beach is open for swimming, and water quality is routinely monitored. Occasionally, E.coli advisories may be issued following heavy rains or other conditions—these are typically temporary. Check current beach conditions before your visit. When advisories are lifted, the beach returns to normal operation.
What trail improvements are happening in 2026?
The Marsh and River Raisin Heritage Connector trails are receiving significant upgrades! In Spring 2026, there will be a brief closure to pave a 40-foot railroad crossing section. 2026 marks the final year of ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funding for Michigan state park improvements, so these enhancements are part of major statewide investments.
🌊 Michigan’s Lake Erie Treasure
Experience Michigan’s only Lake Erie state park—fish for trophy walleye, camp with lake views, and enjoy a mile of sandy beach. Visit the official Sterling State Park website for campsite reservations and current conditions.
