West Michigan Park Reopens After Major Renovations, Yurt + Treehouse Campground Still to Come

An Ottawa County park recently celebrated its grand re-opening after getting a major makeover.

Way back in 2021 we told you about the plans for Ottawa Sands park at the site of decommissioned sand mines on land that runs alongside the Grand River.

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The multi-million dollar project includes site improvements, ecological restoration, reclamation, enhancements - and eventually, a unique camping experience with yurts and treehouses at Idema Explorers Camp.

As of Oct. 17, 2024, Ottawa Sands has reopened to the public.

However, the grand re-opening did not include the Idema Explorers Camp.

Improvements, which were made possible through the generosity of numerous partners, private donors, and grants include:

• Modern day-use restroom and parking
• Paved 1.6-mile Lake Loop trail
• Accessible benches
• Universally accessible kayak launch

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If you visit Ottawa Sands throughout the rest of the month, you can take a self-guided Story Walk. Pages from Dreamers/Soñadores by Yuyi Morales will be displayed along the paved lake-loop trail.

Once completed, Idema Explorers Camp 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. It will be open year-round.

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The project is being funded by a $3.48 million donation from the Bill and Bea Idema Foundation.

Back in February, the below photo was shared.

So when can we expect it to open?

According to Fox 17, Jason Shamblin, Ottawa County's parks director says Idema Explorers Camp will likely open in the spring. The campground is not yet taking reservations, but you can sign up for updates here.