The best camping near Rothbury with campfires

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Looking for the perfect camping experience near Rothbury, Michigan? Look no further than Hipcamp, the ultimate camping resource. With over 742 options in the area, you're sure to find the ideal accommodation for your outdoor adventure. Whether you prefer a rustic wilderness retreat, a cozy lodge in the woods, or an eco-friendly farm basecamp like Llama Meadows, Hipcamp has you covered. And with top campsites like Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), House of Bear (179 reviews), and Llama Meadows Eco Farm BaseCamp (97 reviews), you can trust the opinions of fellow campers. Plus, popular amenities such as potable water, pet-friendly policies, and toilets make your stay even more convenient. Whether you're into snow sports, swimming, or paddling, Rothbury, Michigan has it all. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

97% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

picturesque morning pasture...dog photobomb

3. Provision Family Farms

97%
(152)
35mi from Rothbury · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · White Cloud, MI
Nestled in Manistee National Forest is a family farm. Trailheads lead to hundreds of miles of public two-track, and the woods roll between oak/maple/beech and aspen/birch. On the farm is a 20 acre lake with a floating island, tent sites, and healthy ecosystems with plenty of wildlife.Our farm pastures pigs, cattle, sheep and poultry, investing in our dirt and our neighbors. We are provision family farms because we provide for our animals even as we are provided for. Drop on in at the house and we may have time for a little tour.In the woods is a small composting toilet, but you're welcome to fertilize our pastures anytime. There's also a shower available in the house.The best time to visit Michigan forests is in October when the leaves turn color and the nights are cool. The mosquitoes are done for the winter and the air is brisk.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$23
 / night
Sun Retreats Silver Lake

6. Sun Retreats Silver Lake

13mi from Rothbury · 23 sites · RVs, Lodging · Mears, MI
Discover the unique charm of Sun Retreats Silver Lake, a premier campground that offers an unforgettable adventure just moments away from the Silver Lake Sand Dunes. This exceptional destination features over 250 spacious RV sites, each equipped with concrete pads, full hookups, and cozy fire rings perfect for roasting s'mores under the starry sky. At Sun Retreats Silver Lake, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy. Take a refreshing dip in the inviting pool, unwind in the soothing hot tub, or challenge your friends to a fun game of shuffleboard. For those looking to explore, the surrounding area boasts a variety of attractions, including stunning natural features, swimming holes, and outdoor activities that cater to all interests. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Sun Retreats Silver Lake is the ideal spot for your next camping getaway in West Michigan. Start planning your trip today and experience the endless possibilities that await you!
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$55
 / night
One Grand Place - Riverside Retreat

8. One Grand Place - Riverside Retreat

99%
(178)
35mi from Rothbury · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Robinson Township, MI
Welcome to our little slice of heaven along the Grand River in Grand Haven, MI. Voted one of the best places to visit in '22 and '23. Our property is at the end of a private road and has been in the family for decades. We fondly refer to it as One Grand Place and we are excited to be sharing it with you. Our Premium RV site has a cement pad, parallel to the river. Can accommodate 1 RV up to 30' (NO Class A's allowed). 30/50/standard 110 electric and water hookup. Pump out is available for a fee. At the very far west end of the property is a large grassy area with 2 sites (1 RV or Tent and 1 Tent only) perpendicular to the river. Both have 30 and standard 110 electric and water. RV up to 30' (NO Class A's). Pump out is available for a fee. If you don't have an RV or a tent, no problem. Rent our elevated popup tent.  There is plenty of room to set up games, fish, play with the kids or the dogs, etc. What's not to like? It is your very own exclusive home away from home.   Property is adjacent to Connor Bayou County Park and surrounded by natural wetlands. So, we are a perfect place to unwind, chill, enjoy fresh air and picture perfect sunsets. Boating, swimming, jet skis, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing are just a few things to be enjoyed on the water. There's a public boat launch just a couple minute ride and Connor Bayou Park has a kayak specific boat launch. Or, you can also drop a kayak in at the very west end of our property right from shore. Hiking, biking and wildlife/bird/eagle watching are also options. Lake Michigan beaches, various state/county parks, downtown Grand Haven's shops and restaurants are just a short drive away. Holland is about 30 minutes south. PJ Hoffmaster State Park is 25 minutes North. If you are a thrill seeker, Michigan's Adventure Amusement and Waterpark is 40 minutes North in Muskegon. Grand Rapids is 40 minutes to the East. There are also many wineries, distilleries, ciders and craft beer in Southwest Michigan as well as "you pick" blueberries and many festivals in the summer. Bottom line....there is plenty of things to do and see during your visit. You can be as active or as chill as you want to be.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$69
 / night
the compost toilet and hand washing station is pretty at night.

9. Hen and Hive Provisions

100%
(170)
47mi from Rothbury · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Cedar Springs, MI
We are a small bio-dynamic farm situated on 10 acres in West Michigan. the land has small diverse eco-systems. Open meadows with large White pine to dense woods to the back of the property. We have a small diverse fiber herd of Jacob sheep and Nigora Goats along with some heritage Breed chickens including 1 Rooster who watches over the flock. A small group of Cayuga duck work their pest control magic as the snoodle around the entire property. These ducks go everywhere! There are also 2 barn cats, that might visit your camp site if you are traveling without dogs. we also host group of 24 Bee Hives. On the farm we grow a variety of veggies, flowers and Medicinals. We have plots of native woodland medicinals and a variety of other Perennials and Medicinals including Hemp and Cannabis on a very small scale. Everything is grown organically. Sorry, No children under 10 We are also close to the Red Flannel Gun club, quite a bit of the time we hear guns. We are also very close to the Cedar Chase Golf Course if you like golf. Hen and Hive Provisions makes a small collection of Honeys, medicine and full-Spectrum Aromatherapy CBD Topicals that we sell locally and at seasonal markets. Email henandhiveprovisions@gmail.com for a full product list + price list. We hope you’ll come for a visit, we would love to meet you! 💗✨🌈
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$26
 / night
Oak Meadows

17. Oak Meadows

96%
(80)
13mi from Rothbury · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · Lakewood Club, MI
🌳 Welcome to Oak Meadows Campground Lakewood Club, Michigan — Just Minutes from Muskegon & Michigan’s Adventure Escape the crowds and reconnect with nature at Oak Meadows Campground, a peaceful, 27-acre retreat in the heart of West Michigan. Surrounded by tall hardwoods, quiet meadows, and miles of sky, our campground offers private, spacious sites perfect for tent campers and small RVs looking to relax in a natural setting. 🏕 Campsites & Amenities Private, wooded, or meadow sites Fire ring at each site Clean porta-john Access to hand pump well water Firewood available on-site No hookups (true rustic camping) Pets welcome 🐾 Hosts on-site and happy to help Whether you're looking to kick back around a fire or spend the day exploring, Oak Meadows is your low-key, laid-back basecamp. 🌟 What Guests Are Saying “So peaceful and private. It felt like we had the entire forest to ourselves!” “Perfect location for Michigan’s Adventure and Duck Lake. Loved how clean and quiet it was.” “This is what camping should feel like. No traffic. No noise. Just stars and fresh air.” 📍 Local Attractions – All Within 5 to 20 Minutes 🎢 Michigan’s Adventure – The largest amusement park in the state, with roller coasters, water slides, and family rides. (3 min) 🌳 Duck Lake State Park – Dunes, trails, beach, and kayaking all in one beautiful spot. (15 min) 🌊 Muskegon State Park & Lake Michigan – White-sand beaches, scenic overlooks, and wooded trails along the shoreline. (20 min) 🏁 Thunderbird Raceway – Catch local dirt track races every Saturday night! (2 min) 🚴‍♂️ Hart–Montague Trail – A scenic, paved bike path perfect for all ages. 🛶 White River, White Lake – Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or bring your fishing gear. (15 min) 🗼 White River Light Station Museum – Explore a historic lighthouse and enjoy stunning lake views. 🍔 Local Eats & Hidden Gems The Gnarly Heifer - MORE than just a burger joint!! Hobo’s Tavern – Cozy food & drinks with a log cabin vibe Local farm markets, coffee shops, and ice cream stands are all within a short drive Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or planning a full week of West Michigan adventures, Oak Meadows is the perfect place to unwind. Limited campsites available, book early to reserve your spot in the
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$20
 / night
Billy’s Place in the Woods

19. Billy’s Place in the Woods

100%
(4)
45mi from Rothbury · 1 site · Lodging · Big Rapids, MI
Small cabin with three beds, the bottom bunk is full size and can sleep couple. The other two are single beds. All have new "Memory Foam" mattresses. Out house with TP no lighting or heat. Bring what you need, think like a tent with roof and comfortable beds Campfire wood included. It’s old but free🙂 Nature Trails Lake Access Deer hunting available for renters. as allowed by State laws. Hunt at own risk, maximum three hunters per party. There is an outhouse that’s clean. There is plenty of firewood for your stay but be reasonable with the fire. Bring all you need the place has nothing. Think like a tent! You will need it all, nothing supplied as far as bedding, water, campfire starter, TP or lights. You may want bug spray. Tics in area and the wildlife is typical Pure Michigan. Over a mile of trails to wander or ride If ATV 25 mph max speed on property. I do provide fire extinguisher. Cost if used. Addition room for tents at $10 per person per night. Maximum 4 adults or family 2 adults 4 minor children in cabin. Closed until further notice !!! Access to Hot tub area at host HQ by river. It has indoor restroom and shower, Also small fireplace to enjoy the sprit of camping. This area is available to group of guest only for additional $15 a day. Closes at 10pm. Opens at 7am. Be sure to let host know so it can be unlocked for you. Bring a towel.Tub is 8’ by 8’. Maintained at 99f Respect is job one, clean up after yourselves Woods in Michigan are home to many things including mold. If you are sensitive to nature this is not a good spot for you Lake access ( Muskegon River, Rogers Pond) is available via adjoining property, there is a dock at adjoining property to tie up to, if you want to put in boat at public access 1 mile away. ATV access to water if you have one. Bagged trash is removed by me, extra bags in can bottom. Please don’t leave in can. Pull it out when stay is complete Remember no Heat, Lights or water Code opens the cabin door. Lock when leaving please
Pets
Toilets
from 
$15
 / night
The 40 Acre Wood

20. The 40 Acre Wood

100%
(81)
11mi from Rothbury · 5 sites · Lodging · Shelby, MI
Before our forest was "owned," it belonged to the Odawa people. Once white settlers arrived and governments were established, land deeds were written. We traced those deeds back through the Oceana County Register of Deeds and found that larger tracts of land were owned by people from Chicago and California, which were later divided into smaller parcels. Interestingly, one owner lost the property after failing to pay back taxes of $3.50, shortly after World War II. It is likely that he never returned. In the mid-1900s, Ed Dewey was the owner. Today, we have a cabin on the east side of the 40 acres that was built by Ed, entirely constructed with oak. He had three sawmills there, each powered by the engines of old Studebakers. He cut and milled enormous oak trees, using the wood to construct crates for transporting cherries. Today, you can still see old oak crates on various farms, but they are slowly being replaced by plastic. Ed never finished the little cabin, and the story goes that he died there. The next owners were a couple from Inkster, near Detroit. Despite Ed leaving an acre of "yard art" all over, the place was used as a vacation home after a 50-foot long mobile home was placed near the cabin. As they aged, they sold off their property to us. First, we acquired the 20 acres where the Cozy Camper Cabin resides, then the 7 acres near Weaver Road and 44th, and finally, the remaining 13 acres with the cabin. We began purchasing the property in parcels in 1992 for $500 an acre and owned it all by 1998. From 1998 to 2008, we removed the mobile home, cleaned up all the yard art, refurbished the cabin, added a garage, and built a new shed nearby. The Hipcamp shed was originally built in 1999 and has been used for storage until it was converted into a unique little place in the woods in 2021. Over the years, our Forester has carefully managed the property. We have logged three times. The first round was to remove 75 huge oak trees. The second round involved culling mature poplar trees. The last time, we took out 276 mature oaks and beeches. A Woodsman spent a year cutting down the tops of the trees. Clearing these old growth trees revitalized the forest, as planned. Today, there are over two miles of trails running throughout the property. Some were logging roads, while others were carved out over time. The land is flat to the north but hilly to the south, as these are forested sand dunes. There are approximately a million trees on the property, densely forested with many large "mother trees" such as oaks, beeches, maples, and pines. The poplar trees are growing rapidly, as they do. Wild cherry, sassafras, beeches, oaks, and maples are also growing quickly and thickly. To the south, there are fenced-in asparagus fields and cherry orchards. To the north, on the other side of Weaver Road, is the privately owned Silver Lake Airport, which remains quiet most of the time. On the east side of our 40 acres, you'll find our cabin and buildings, and we kindly ask you to avoid wandering onto that side of the property. Signs will alert you when you get close. To the west, there is a 20-acre section occasionally occupied by some "Dunners." The area is famous for Silver Lake State Park and the sand dunes, located about 2.5 miles northwest of us. Our neighbors in that area have dune buggies, and they sometimes drive around their property, creating more noise than we prefer. It's possible that you may encounter this during your visit, so please be aware. Deer are abundant in the area, and in 2021, we spotted a porcupine for the first time, although we have occasionally seen evidence of their presence through bark-stripped maples. Raccoons come and go, while turkeys are frequent visitors at times. You can hear coyotes yipping away at night, and depending on the time of year and migratory season, you'll see lots and lots of birds. We're pleased to report that there is no poison ivy on the property! It is a beautiful place in the woods, not far from many entertaining activities suitable for both the young and old. Come and visit, but please be respectful of the land and our privacy while enjoying yours. Love Mother Earth while you are here and nourish your soul.
Pets
Toilets
Wifi
from 
$81
 / night

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Rothbury, Michigan? Look no further than Hipcamp, the ultimate camping resource. With over 742 options in the area, you're sure to find the ideal accommodation for your outdoor adventure. Whether you prefer a rustic wilderness retreat, a cozy lodge in the woods, or an eco-friendly farm basecamp like Llama Meadows, Hipcamp has you covered. And with top campsites like Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), House of Bear (179 reviews), and Llama Meadows Eco Farm BaseCamp (97 reviews), you can trust the opinions of fellow campers. Plus, popular amenities such as potable water, pet-friendly policies, and toilets make your stay even more convenient. Whether you're into snow sports, swimming, or paddling, Rothbury, Michigan has it all. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

97% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

picturesque morning pasture...dog photobomb

3. Provision Family Farms

97%
(152)
35mi from Rothbury · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · White Cloud, MI
Nestled in Manistee National Forest is a family farm. Trailheads lead to hundreds of miles of public two-track, and the woods roll between oak/maple/beech and aspen/birch. On the farm is a 20 acre lake with a floating island, tent sites, and healthy ecosystems with plenty of wildlife.Our farm pastures pigs, cattle, sheep and poultry, investing in our dirt and our neighbors. We are provision family farms because we provide for our animals even as we are provided for. Drop on in at the house and we may have time for a little tour.In the woods is a small composting toilet, but you're welcome to fertilize our pastures anytime. There's also a shower available in the house.The best time to visit Michigan forests is in October when the leaves turn color and the nights are cool. The mosquitoes are done for the winter and the air is brisk.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$23
 / night
Sun Retreats Silver Lake

6. Sun Retreats Silver Lake

13mi from Rothbury · 23 sites · RVs, Lodging · Mears, MI
Discover the unique charm of Sun Retreats Silver Lake, a premier campground that offers an unforgettable adventure just moments away from the Silver Lake Sand Dunes. This exceptional destination features over 250 spacious RV sites, each equipped with concrete pads, full hookups, and cozy fire rings perfect for roasting s'mores under the starry sky. At Sun Retreats Silver Lake, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy. Take a refreshing dip in the inviting pool, unwind in the soothing hot tub, or challenge your friends to a fun game of shuffleboard. For those looking to explore, the surrounding area boasts a variety of attractions, including stunning natural features, swimming holes, and outdoor activities that cater to all interests. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Sun Retreats Silver Lake is the ideal spot for your next camping getaway in West Michigan. Start planning your trip today and experience the endless possibilities that await you!
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$55
 / night
One Grand Place - Riverside Retreat

8. One Grand Place - Riverside Retreat

99%
(178)
35mi from Rothbury · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Robinson Township, MI
Welcome to our little slice of heaven along the Grand River in Grand Haven, MI. Voted one of the best places to visit in '22 and '23. Our property is at the end of a private road and has been in the family for decades. We fondly refer to it as One Grand Place and we are excited to be sharing it with you. Our Premium RV site has a cement pad, parallel to the river. Can accommodate 1 RV up to 30' (NO Class A's allowed). 30/50/standard 110 electric and water hookup. Pump out is available for a fee. At the very far west end of the property is a large grassy area with 2 sites (1 RV or Tent and 1 Tent only) perpendicular to the river. Both have 30 and standard 110 electric and water. RV up to 30' (NO Class A's). Pump out is available for a fee. If you don't have an RV or a tent, no problem. Rent our elevated popup tent.  There is plenty of room to set up games, fish, play with the kids or the dogs, etc. What's not to like? It is your very own exclusive home away from home.   Property is adjacent to Connor Bayou County Park and surrounded by natural wetlands. So, we are a perfect place to unwind, chill, enjoy fresh air and picture perfect sunsets. Boating, swimming, jet skis, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing are just a few things to be enjoyed on the water. There's a public boat launch just a couple minute ride and Connor Bayou Park has a kayak specific boat launch. Or, you can also drop a kayak in at the very west end of our property right from shore. Hiking, biking and wildlife/bird/eagle watching are also options. Lake Michigan beaches, various state/county parks, downtown Grand Haven's shops and restaurants are just a short drive away. Holland is about 30 minutes south. PJ Hoffmaster State Park is 25 minutes North. If you are a thrill seeker, Michigan's Adventure Amusement and Waterpark is 40 minutes North in Muskegon. Grand Rapids is 40 minutes to the East. There are also many wineries, distilleries, ciders and craft beer in Southwest Michigan as well as "you pick" blueberries and many festivals in the summer. Bottom line....there is plenty of things to do and see during your visit. You can be as active or as chill as you want to be.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$69
 / night
the compost toilet and hand washing station is pretty at night.

9. Hen and Hive Provisions

100%
(170)
47mi from Rothbury · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Cedar Springs, MI
We are a small bio-dynamic farm situated on 10 acres in West Michigan. the land has small diverse eco-systems. Open meadows with large White pine to dense woods to the back of the property. We have a small diverse fiber herd of Jacob sheep and Nigora Goats along with some heritage Breed chickens including 1 Rooster who watches over the flock. A small group of Cayuga duck work their pest control magic as the snoodle around the entire property. These ducks go everywhere! There are also 2 barn cats, that might visit your camp site if you are traveling without dogs. we also host group of 24 Bee Hives. On the farm we grow a variety of veggies, flowers and Medicinals. We have plots of native woodland medicinals and a variety of other Perennials and Medicinals including Hemp and Cannabis on a very small scale. Everything is grown organically. Sorry, No children under 10 We are also close to the Red Flannel Gun club, quite a bit of the time we hear guns. We are also very close to the Cedar Chase Golf Course if you like golf. Hen and Hive Provisions makes a small collection of Honeys, medicine and full-Spectrum Aromatherapy CBD Topicals that we sell locally and at seasonal markets. Email henandhiveprovisions@gmail.com for a full product list + price list. We hope you’ll come for a visit, we would love to meet you! 💗✨🌈
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$26
 / night
Oak Meadows

17. Oak Meadows

96%
(80)
13mi from Rothbury · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · Lakewood Club, MI
🌳 Welcome to Oak Meadows Campground Lakewood Club, Michigan — Just Minutes from Muskegon & Michigan’s Adventure Escape the crowds and reconnect with nature at Oak Meadows Campground, a peaceful, 27-acre retreat in the heart of West Michigan. Surrounded by tall hardwoods, quiet meadows, and miles of sky, our campground offers private, spacious sites perfect for tent campers and small RVs looking to relax in a natural setting. 🏕 Campsites & Amenities Private, wooded, or meadow sites Fire ring at each site Clean porta-john Access to hand pump well water Firewood available on-site No hookups (true rustic camping) Pets welcome 🐾 Hosts on-site and happy to help Whether you're looking to kick back around a fire or spend the day exploring, Oak Meadows is your low-key, laid-back basecamp. 🌟 What Guests Are Saying “So peaceful and private. It felt like we had the entire forest to ourselves!” “Perfect location for Michigan’s Adventure and Duck Lake. Loved how clean and quiet it was.” “This is what camping should feel like. No traffic. No noise. Just stars and fresh air.” 📍 Local Attractions – All Within 5 to 20 Minutes 🎢 Michigan’s Adventure – The largest amusement park in the state, with roller coasters, water slides, and family rides. (3 min) 🌳 Duck Lake State Park – Dunes, trails, beach, and kayaking all in one beautiful spot. (15 min) 🌊 Muskegon State Park & Lake Michigan – White-sand beaches, scenic overlooks, and wooded trails along the shoreline. (20 min) 🏁 Thunderbird Raceway – Catch local dirt track races every Saturday night! (2 min) 🚴‍♂️ Hart–Montague Trail – A scenic, paved bike path perfect for all ages. 🛶 White River, White Lake – Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or bring your fishing gear. (15 min) 🗼 White River Light Station Museum – Explore a historic lighthouse and enjoy stunning lake views. 🍔 Local Eats & Hidden Gems The Gnarly Heifer - MORE than just a burger joint!! Hobo’s Tavern – Cozy food & drinks with a log cabin vibe Local farm markets, coffee shops, and ice cream stands are all within a short drive Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or planning a full week of West Michigan adventures, Oak Meadows is the perfect place to unwind. Limited campsites available, book early to reserve your spot in the
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$20
 / night
Billy’s Place in the Woods

19. Billy’s Place in the Woods

100%
(4)
45mi from Rothbury · 1 site · Lodging · Big Rapids, MI
Small cabin with three beds, the bottom bunk is full size and can sleep couple. The other two are single beds. All have new "Memory Foam" mattresses. Out house with TP no lighting or heat. Bring what you need, think like a tent with roof and comfortable beds Campfire wood included. It’s old but free🙂 Nature Trails Lake Access Deer hunting available for renters. as allowed by State laws. Hunt at own risk, maximum three hunters per party. There is an outhouse that’s clean. There is plenty of firewood for your stay but be reasonable with the fire. Bring all you need the place has nothing. Think like a tent! You will need it all, nothing supplied as far as bedding, water, campfire starter, TP or lights. You may want bug spray. Tics in area and the wildlife is typical Pure Michigan. Over a mile of trails to wander or ride If ATV 25 mph max speed on property. I do provide fire extinguisher. Cost if used. Addition room for tents at $10 per person per night. Maximum 4 adults or family 2 adults 4 minor children in cabin. Closed until further notice !!! Access to Hot tub area at host HQ by river. It has indoor restroom and shower, Also small fireplace to enjoy the sprit of camping. This area is available to group of guest only for additional $15 a day. Closes at 10pm. Opens at 7am. Be sure to let host know so it can be unlocked for you. Bring a towel.Tub is 8’ by 8’. Maintained at 99f Respect is job one, clean up after yourselves Woods in Michigan are home to many things including mold. If you are sensitive to nature this is not a good spot for you Lake access ( Muskegon River, Rogers Pond) is available via adjoining property, there is a dock at adjoining property to tie up to, if you want to put in boat at public access 1 mile away. ATV access to water if you have one. Bagged trash is removed by me, extra bags in can bottom. Please don’t leave in can. Pull it out when stay is complete Remember no Heat, Lights or water Code opens the cabin door. Lock when leaving please
Pets
Toilets
from 
$15
 / night
The 40 Acre Wood

20. The 40 Acre Wood

100%
(81)
11mi from Rothbury · 5 sites · Lodging · Shelby, MI
Before our forest was "owned," it belonged to the Odawa people. Once white settlers arrived and governments were established, land deeds were written. We traced those deeds back through the Oceana County Register of Deeds and found that larger tracts of land were owned by people from Chicago and California, which were later divided into smaller parcels. Interestingly, one owner lost the property after failing to pay back taxes of $3.50, shortly after World War II. It is likely that he never returned. In the mid-1900s, Ed Dewey was the owner. Today, we have a cabin on the east side of the 40 acres that was built by Ed, entirely constructed with oak. He had three sawmills there, each powered by the engines of old Studebakers. He cut and milled enormous oak trees, using the wood to construct crates for transporting cherries. Today, you can still see old oak crates on various farms, but they are slowly being replaced by plastic. Ed never finished the little cabin, and the story goes that he died there. The next owners were a couple from Inkster, near Detroit. Despite Ed leaving an acre of "yard art" all over, the place was used as a vacation home after a 50-foot long mobile home was placed near the cabin. As they aged, they sold off their property to us. First, we acquired the 20 acres where the Cozy Camper Cabin resides, then the 7 acres near Weaver Road and 44th, and finally, the remaining 13 acres with the cabin. We began purchasing the property in parcels in 1992 for $500 an acre and owned it all by 1998. From 1998 to 2008, we removed the mobile home, cleaned up all the yard art, refurbished the cabin, added a garage, and built a new shed nearby. The Hipcamp shed was originally built in 1999 and has been used for storage until it was converted into a unique little place in the woods in 2021. Over the years, our Forester has carefully managed the property. We have logged three times. The first round was to remove 75 huge oak trees. The second round involved culling mature poplar trees. The last time, we took out 276 mature oaks and beeches. A Woodsman spent a year cutting down the tops of the trees. Clearing these old growth trees revitalized the forest, as planned. Today, there are over two miles of trails running throughout the property. Some were logging roads, while others were carved out over time. The land is flat to the north but hilly to the south, as these are forested sand dunes. There are approximately a million trees on the property, densely forested with many large "mother trees" such as oaks, beeches, maples, and pines. The poplar trees are growing rapidly, as they do. Wild cherry, sassafras, beeches, oaks, and maples are also growing quickly and thickly. To the south, there are fenced-in asparagus fields and cherry orchards. To the north, on the other side of Weaver Road, is the privately owned Silver Lake Airport, which remains quiet most of the time. On the east side of our 40 acres, you'll find our cabin and buildings, and we kindly ask you to avoid wandering onto that side of the property. Signs will alert you when you get close. To the west, there is a 20-acre section occasionally occupied by some "Dunners." The area is famous for Silver Lake State Park and the sand dunes, located about 2.5 miles northwest of us. Our neighbors in that area have dune buggies, and they sometimes drive around their property, creating more noise than we prefer. It's possible that you may encounter this during your visit, so please be aware. Deer are abundant in the area, and in 2021, we spotted a porcupine for the first time, although we have occasionally seen evidence of their presence through bark-stripped maples. Raccoons come and go, while turkeys are frequent visitors at times. You can hear coyotes yipping away at night, and depending on the time of year and migratory season, you'll see lots and lots of birds. We're pleased to report that there is no poison ivy on the property! It is a beautiful place in the woods, not far from many entertaining activities suitable for both the young and old. Come and visit, but please be respectful of the land and our privacy while enjoying yours. Love Mother Earth while you are here and nourish your soul.
Pets
Toilets
Wifi
from 
$81
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field