It’s a blue-sky day. The beach is calling your name and the only thing you want to do is sit in your hammock near Lake Michigan and read a book. The problem is, you can’t find the perfect spot. The trees are too close together and branches are blocking the view of the Lake. Finally, when you think you’ve found the perfect spot, you notice that it’s in the heat of the sun. Then, the search continues. This was me last weekend.

As a college student, hammocking is a popular pastime and a great way to get out of the house and into the beautiful West Michigan outdoors. Whether it’s sitting and doing homework or taking a nap in the shade of some trees, hammocking provides a comfortable, free way to relax outside.

After spending the day on the sand at Pere Marquette Beach in Muskegon, I decided to get out of the sun and go hammocking. The problem was, I didn’t know where to set up my hammock. Having spent little time in Muskegon, I consulted our sports, leisure, & water page and decided to explore Kruse Park.

From what I had heard, Kruse Park contained spectacular views of Lake Michigan, but I didn’t know if I would find a great hammocking spot there. I took the gamble anyway and headed over to the park. What was the first thing I saw when I got there? Puppies! It turns out, part of the Kruse Park beach is sectioned off just for dogs. Many Lakeshore communities have designated dog beaches so the pups can join in on the lakeside fun.

The only thing that was missing was my hammocking spot. After exploring the beach and the pathways in the park, I found what I was looking for. Two trees just far enough apart to fit my hammock, their shade blocking the hot summer sun, and through the low hanging leaves: a beautiful overlook view of Lake Michigan (and the dogs playing). This was THE perfect hammocking spot for me.

As I sat reading my book, people walking on the pathways stopped to admire the view and one little girl even said, “I wish I had found that hammocking spot.” Was it pure luck that I stumbled upon the spot? Who knows. But I know for a fact that West Michigan is full of perfect hammocking spots. You just have to take the time to explore and find yours.