Charles Mears State Park is a public recreation area in the village of Pentwater, Oceana County, Michigan. The park covers 50 acres (20 ha) on the north side of the channel connecting Lake Michigan and Pentwater Lake.

History

Mears State Park was one of 13 parks created in 1920 after the Michigan State Parks Commission was formed in 1919. The land, previously owned by lumber magnate Charles Mears, was given to the state by his daughter, Carrie Mears. At first, the park covered only 16 acres of land made entirely of lake sand. In 1921, a process to level the land disturbed the plants that held the sand in place, causing sand to blow away and creating problems for nearby residents. To fix this issue, five tons of marsh hay were spread evenly and mixed into the sand. A restroom and fireplaces were also built during this time.

Activities and amenities

The park provides opportunities for fishing, swimming, camping, and picnicking, as well as a one-mile (1.6 km) hiking trail that climbs the Old Baldy sand dune. The park also features the Pentwater North Pierhead Light, which is on the National Register of Historic Places.