A major attraction is set to open later this year in West Michigan! A unique camping experience with treehouses and yurts is coming to an Ottawa County Park.

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Back in 2021 we told you that massive upgrades were coming to Ottawa Sands County Park near Lake Michigan in Ferrysburg.

Ottawa County Parks and Recreation
Ottawa County Parks and Recreation
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The new Idema Explorers Camp is part of the Ottawa Sands Master Plan which began with the acquisition of the 345-acre park in 2019.

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Ottawa County Parks and Recreation
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The Ottawa Sans Master Plan proposed site improvements and ecological restoration, reclamation, and enhancements of $23.3 million to the area, including decommissioned sand mines the county had purchased.

Ottawa County Parks and Recreation
Ottawa County Parks and Recreation
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The improvements include a 1.6 mile paved loop around the 80-acre inland lake, parking, dune overlook tower, riverfront recreational area, and more, in addition to the Idema Explorers Camp.

Ottawa County Parks and Recreation
Ottawa County Parks and Recreation
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Construction has been ongoing on Idema Explorers Camp which will feature three treehouses, five yurts, and 10 tent pads, along with a universally accessible boardwalk and accommodations, and a communal fire pit by the natural surface trail around the in-land lake and marked hiking trails⁠.

The new campground will be open year-round.

VIRIDIS Design Group
VIRIDIS Design Group
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The project was made possible through a $3.48 million gift from the Bill and Bea Idema Foundation.

According to Ottawa County Parks and Recreation, treehouses and yurts are expected to be available by late 2024 for overnight stays.

Ottawa County Parks Foundation, Facebook
Ottawa County Parks Foundation, Facebook
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If you're interested in staying at the Idema Explorers campground reservations won't be accepted until there is an exact open date.

For updates, follow Ottawa County Parks and Recreation on Facebook!

You can also check back here for updates.

CAMPGROUNDS TO CHECK OUT IN WEST MICHIGAN

With 142 campgrounds in the entire state of Michigan, there are plenty of opportunities to escape the world under the stars. Here are a few of the campgrounds you can visit in West Michigan.

Gallery Credit: Lisha B