Natural swimming hole
Platte River Point Beach
River · Michigan
About this swimming hole
Where the Platte River flows into Lake Michigan inside Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - the finish line for the popular Platte River tubing and paddling route. The National Park Service describes bathing in the river shallows or plunging into Lake Michigan, with views of Empire Bluffs and Sleeping Bear Point. Two NPS lots sit on Lake Michigan Road; a Benzie County township lot charges a separate daily fee. No pets are allowed on this beach.
Good to know
| Water type | River |
|---|---|
| Depth | shallow river shallows; deeper lake water |
| Best season | June-August |
| Fees | National park pass required |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | two NPS lots on Lake Michigan Rd (fill in summer); township lot with daily fee |
| Amenities | restrooms, drinking water, picnic area, grills, information kiosk |
| County | Benzie County |
| Nearest town | Honor |
| Safety notes | no lifeguards in the national lakeshore; current where river and lake waters merge; respect piping plover nesting closures |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Platte River Point Beach?
Yes — Platte River Point Beach is listed as a natural swimming spot in Michigan. Heads-up: no lifeguards in the national lakeshore; current where river and lake waters merge; respect piping plover nesting closures. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Platte River Point Beach require reservations?
No reservations are required at Platte River Point Beach based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Platte River Point Beach?
Reported fee info: National park pass required. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Platte River Point Beach?
The best season is typically June-August.