Swimming

Silver Beach

Silver Beach features a clean, wide sandy beach with a designated swimming area. The swimming area is approximately 1,600 feet long with a maximum depth of five feet. Although items such as floating inner tubes and inflatable water mattresses are allowed in the swim area, it is not recommended to use them on a windy or wavy day. Wind and water conditions can change quickly. Use of paddles are not allowed in the swim area. Dogs and pets are not allowed on the sand or in the water at Silver Beach County Park. Dogs on leashes are allowed on the hard surface sidewalks at the Park.

Water Safety

Weather permitting, Lifeguards are on duty from 11 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. from early June through mid-August. When Lifeguards are on duty, Water Safety Flags are posted at each Lifeguard tower. These colored flags indicate water conditions:

• Green: okay to swim
• Yellow: swim with caution
• Red: no swimming

Rocky Gap

Rocky Gap Park features a beach with 1,100 feet of lake frontage, an overlook platform, and spectacular views of the lake. It is an ideal location to take a relaxed lunch break, enjoy a sunset, or cool off with a quick swim.

Please Note: Swimming is allowed at your own risk at Rocky Gap. There are no lifeguards on duty. Always use caution when swimming in Lake Michigan - and parents, please keep a watchful eye on your children when they are in or near the water!

Water Safety Resources

• Great Lakes Water Safety Consortium: Be smart when bathing in Lake Michigan.  Learn about the risks in the Great Lakes and how to identify dangerous waves and currents before visiting the beach.
• Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project: Learn about water survival, what drowning looks like, and much more about being safe when swimming and playing in the Great Lakes.