Aerial view of Fremont

Experience the Best of SUMMER in NewayGo County

 

It’s time to soak up the sun with outdoor summer fun in NewayGo County! Spend your days exploring the great outdoors on our beaches, trails, and waterways.  Check out our Top 10 hot summer activities and start planning your escape!

ladies on hiking trail

Hike the NCT

Newaygo County is home to almost 70 miles of the North Country Trail, which spans 8 states and stretches over 4,700 miles. This creates ample opportunity to explore the great outdoors whether you are out for an afternoon or passing through on an extended backpacking trip. Our new NCT map highlights the amenities along our section of trail, shows you where to hop on or off, and where to find supplies and brag a bite to fuel your adventure.

People enjoying Sandy Beach park

Have a Beach Day

Toes in the sand, a good book in your hand, and not a worry in the world….you are ready for your day on the beach. Fremont Lake Park is a popular destination for the perfect summertime beach day. The park features a campground, boat launching area, a swimming beach, volleyball courts, a playground, restrooms, picnic areas, pavilions, and even an ice cream shop.

Woman and child hiking on trail

Take the Challenge

Ready for some summer exploration? The Newaygo County Tourism Council showcases all there is to see and do with the Newaygo County Exploring Challenge features 130+ family-friendly activities such as floating on the Muskegon River, planning a picnic in one of our parks, biking the Town & Country Path in Fremont. Where will your challenge begin?

Kids on mountain bikes on trail

Explore the Dragon

Now featuring more than 24 miles or easy to moderate trails, The Dragon is quickly becoming one of Michigan’s favorite destinations for a normal flow trail with amazing views that is conducive to all skill levels. Both bikers and hikers are welcome to come explore this emerging trail system featuring bridges, scenic overlooks, rock armoring and wooden boardwalk. Download our Dragon map to plan your trip. Are you ready to brave the Dragon?

kayaker on the river

Paddle the White River

Designated a Michigan Natural River, the White River is a tighter and swifter waterway than the Big Muskegon River. A stretch of 89+ miles from the headwater to Lake Michigan, the White River is the perfect destination for your paddling adventure. Our White River map provides drop in points and float times to help you plan your day on the river.

People dining outdoors

Dine Outdoors

While you are out enjoying all the Newaygo County has to offer, you may find yourself feeling a little snackish. What’s better on a bright summer day than sitting outdoors with friend enjoying a meal? We have assembled a list of outdoor dining venues in our area that serve up great local fare and patio dining.

Person throwing golf disc

Try Disc Golf

Five area courses, with more than 80 holes of disc golf, invite you to try this fun family pastime in Newaygo County. Whether it is your first time or you are a seasoned disc golfer, you are sure to find a fun and challenging course in our region.

Vegetables at farmer's market

Visit Farmer's Markets

Newaygo County is rich with diverse agriculture. Locally produced fruits and vegetables are available from various farmer’s markets throughout the summer season.  Support local growers and taste the freshest of NewayGo County when you visit our farm stands and farmers’ markets.

Boats on lake in summer

Boat Croton Pond & Hardy Dam

Newaygo County is home to numerous inland lakes, perfect for lovers of every type of water sports. In our County, Croton Pond is a popular spot for a day on the water. Enjoy free launch access sites for fishing, kayaking, water skiing, and more. Hardy Dam is another great destination for a day on the water featuring 50-mile shoreline that surrounds nearly 4,000 acres of water. The pond features a rustic “up north” setting that is a popular spot for fishing, boating, or a day at the beach. Find spots to launch your boat for a memorable day on the water.

Oxbow County Park waterline with boats

Go Camping at a Big Prairie Township Parks

Summer is time for sleeping under the stars. Pitch a tent, bring your camper, or rent a cabin, whatever your style, Newaygo County has a campsite just for you! The Big Prairie Township Parks are located on the Big Muskegon River near the Hardy Dam and feature all of the amenities you seek in a campground while also providing access to boating, fishing, swimming, and more.

GET OUT AND EXPLORE SUMMER IN NEWAYGO COUNTY

With an abundance of things to do outdoors, NewayGo County has no shortage of fun in the summer sun. Read stories and watch our video of great summer experiences below.

 

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Join us in Fremont at 7:00 pm on Thursday evenings throughout the summer at Veterans Memorial Park for our free concert series. Bring a chair and your friends to enjoy an eclectic mix of local artists share their music.

Coolbough bridge in forest

Summer Hiking

Looking to really get away from it all? NewayGo County is home to miles of hiking trails and numerous nature areas that allow you to enjoy wide open spaces and take in some fresh air while creating an adventure of your own making.

Close up of mountain bikes on trail

Mountain Biking

Our trails invite you on singles track adventure throughout our County. With well-marked trails NewayGo County is a great place to spend time on the trails biking the day away. You won’t want to miss the first open sections of our region’s much anticipated new trail: The Dragon.

ATVs on trail

ORV/ATV

Newaygo County connects with hundreds of miles of comprehensive trail network for ATV & ORV adventure. Read all about the motorized trail experience in NewayGo County.

Salmon in river

Fly Fishing

Cast a line fly fishing the rivers of NewayGo County all through the summer until late fall.