As the summer season begins to wind down, our minds begin to wander to all of the great fall activities before us. Late summer, into early fall, brings the perfect weather for outdoor experiences of every sort. Paddle the waterways, bike The Dragon, fish the river, camp under the stars, it’s all here, just waiting for your arrival. Plan a getaway to NewayGo County, the perfect destination for your Up North adventure.

 

Paddle the Rivers

Just imagine….bright blue skies, a gentle breeze at your back, and the sun shimmering upon the water. A day of adventure laid out before you, paddling the swift flowing waters of the White River or the slower rolling Muskegon River. With the busiest months of the summer season behind us, we find fall the perfect time of the year for peaceful exploration of the waterways of the region.

Kayaker paddling on the White River

The White River

This waterway includes about 253 linear miles of streams, begins in north central region of Newaygo County, flows southwest to White Lake, and then to Lake Michigan. The total length of the river from the headwater to Lake Michigan is 89.8 miles. With faster flowing waters and obstacles along the way, this river can provide a more challenging adventure for the experienced paddler. Learn all about where to launch, area amenities, and spot to stop along the way with our White River map, and before you go let Hesperia Sport Shop set you up with everything you will need for your White River expedition.  Camping is the perfect way to end a day on the water and Diamond Lake County Park, White Cloud County Park, or River Rock Campground provide close-by locations for pitching your tent or parking your camper and relaxing around the campfire to share tales from your travels. If camping is not your thing, give Trailside a try for comfortable lodging close to the White River.

Consumers Rustic Trail river view

The Muskegon River

Not up for big water adventure? You may find a friendlier float on the slower flowing waters of the Muskegon River. This waterway is wider and therefore slower and easier for a casual paddle. The pace is perfect for kayaking solo, canoeing with friends, or even stand-up paddle boarding on the warmer days. Plan your paddling adventure with our Muskegon River map, and let Croton Dam Float trips help you plan a paddling adventure to remember with their full-service livery. If camping is on the agenda for your paddling trip, be sure to check out Ed H. Henning County Park and Sandy Beach County Park for all of the amenities you will need for the perfect camping experience.

Fisherman with rod, spinning reel on the river bank. Sunrise. Fishing for pike, perch, carp. Fog against the backdrop of lake. background Misty morning. wild nature. The concept of a rural getaway.

Angler’s Haven

Both rivers are also popular destinations for fly fishing for salmon, steelhead and trout. Fall salmon bring anglers to the White River in the water below the Hesperia Dam because it is a rather small and wading friendly river system. The Muskegon River offers a world-class fishing experience with steelhead and chinook salmon up to 20 pounds and pacific king salmon up to 40 pounds. Want to learn how to cast a line like the pros? Steel Dreamin Guide Service provides a guided experience on the Muskegon River equipped with everything you need for river fishing.

Overlook view of river in fall

This fall, why not give the waterways of Newaygo County a try? You just might find that our rivers become your favorite destination for year-round paddling and fishing adventures. Start planning your fall trip today!