About Rosy Mound Natural Area
Rosy Mound is a classic Great Lakes dune system including high wooded dunes, foredunes, beach and a dune blowout. A 0.7 mile hiking trail from the parking area to the Lake Michigan shoreline includes 1,000 feet of stairs up and down the dunes and scenic views. A unique shade canopy, dune boardwalk trail and rustic toilets are located near the beach.
Fulfilling the Rosy Mound Vision
Ottawa County Parks recently completed the acquisition of an additional 127-acre property adjacent to the current Rosy Mound Natural Area, nearly doubling the size of Rosy Mound Natural Area to 291 acres. The master plan for Rosy Mound will integrate this new expansion area, focusing on ecological enhancements and improved visitor access. The preliminary plan calls for recreational improvements on only 2.5% of the expansion area, ensuring that 97.5% of the land remains in its natural state or receives ecological enhancements. Proposed features include paved parking, picnic spots, and an expanded trail system.
- Swimming beach (NO LIFEGUARDS) (The walk to the beach is strenuous)
- Stairways & decks with scenic views of Lake Michigan
- Hiking trails & boardwalks
- Interpretive signs
- Picnic tables & grills
- Unique shade canopy near beach
- Modern restrooms near parking area & rustic restrooms near beach
- Paved parking area
Ottawa County Parks and Recreation is committed to creating a legacy of expansive, accessible, and biodiverse natural communities for all to enjoy. All parks have varying levels of accessibility. At this park you will find:
- Barrier free facilities include parking lot restrooms, picnic tables and grills. Some trails are wheelchair accessible, and all stairs are designed to be ADA accessible.
Motor Vehicle Permit Required
Motor vehicle parking fees are in effect from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
Dogs Not Allowed
Dogs are not allowed. Service dogs for persons with disabilities are permitted in all areas at any time.
Follow Park Rules
All Ottawa County Parks Official Rules are in place.Review Park & Open Space Rules
Features
- Swimming beach (NO LIFEGUARDS) (The walk to the beach is strenuous)
- Stairways & decks with scenic views of Lake Michigan
- Hiking trails & boardwalks
- Interpretive signs
- Picnic tables & grills
- Unique shade canopy near beach
- Modern restrooms near parking area & rustic restrooms near beach
- Paved parking area
Accessibility
Ottawa County Parks and Recreation is committed to creating a legacy of expansive, accessible, and biodiverse natural communities for all to enjoy. All parks have varying levels of accessibility. At this park you will find:
- Barrier free facilities include parking lot restrooms, picnic tables and grills. Some trails are wheelchair accessible, and all stairs are designed to be ADA accessible.
Requirements & Restrictions
Motor Vehicle Permit Required
Motor vehicle parking fees are in effect from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
Dogs Not Allowed
Dogs are not allowed. Service dogs for persons with disabilities are permitted in all areas at any time.
Dog Rules & Tips
Follow Park Rules
All Ottawa County Parks Official Rules are in place.
Review Park & Open Space Rules
