Ottawa County Parks & Recreation

Idema Explorers Camp

The Idema Explorers Camp (IEC) at Ottawa Sands offers a unique overnight experience at the intersection of Lake Michigan and the Grand River in Ottawa County. The IEC features three treehouses, five yurts, and 10 tent pad sites. This project was made possible thanks to a $3.48 million gift from the Bill and Bea Idema Foundation.

All campers will have access to the 345-acre park along with its amenities. Visitors can explore the park's existing trail systems and the neighboring parks of North Ottawa Dunes and P.J. Hoffmaster State Park. Campers can also enjoy Lake Michigan access at North Beach Park and partake in various water activities on the Grand River or Lake Michigan:

Address

18280 North Shore Drive
Ferrysburg, MI

Amenities

• Universally accessible kayak launch on Grand River
• 1.6-mile paved Lake Loop Trail
• Connections to regional trail systems
• 2,479-acre corridor of connected dune lands
• Bikeable access to downtown Ferrysburg, Spring Lake, and Grand Haven, which offer:
  • Local eateries
  • Ice cream shops
  • Souvenir stores

Frequently Asked Questions

• Where is the Idema Explorers Camp (IEC) located?

  18280 North Shore Drive, Ferrysburg, MI

• How old do you have to be to rent a treehouse, yurt, or campsite?

  18 years or older

• How do I make a reservation?

  Online at miottawa.org/reservations

  • Create an account in our recreation software to book a reservation.
  • To receive an email when reservations are available, sign up here.
• How much do the yurts, treehouses, and tent sites cost?

  For current rates, please refer to the individual pages linked on our website.

• Is there a discount for Ottawa County residents?

  Rates are the same for residents and non-residents. Thanks to a $3.48 million gift from the Bill and Bea Idema Foundation, this project is designed to be self-sustaining and supports future renovations.

  The park and other amenities are open and free to the public to use.

• What is the arrival and departure time for a rental?
  • Check-out: 11 am
  • Check-in: 3 pm
  • Additional fees may apply for late check-outs.
• What if I must cancel my reservation?
  • More than 30 days before check-in: 80% refund or reschedule for $20 fee.
  • 30 days to 1 day before check-in: refund minus the cost of the first night.
  • Less than 24 hours before check-in: refund minus the cost of the first 2 nights. No refunds for reservations two days or shorter.
• How do I gain access to my rental treehouse or yurt?

  You will receive a link to install a digital key on your smartphone. It also opens the front gate after hours. A key card is available at the welcome center for a $25 fee if not returned.

• What if I need assistance during my stay?
  • Park staff are on-site most of the day.
  • Call the camp phone 24/7. After 10 pm, non-emergencies are addressed the next day.
  • If a camp host is available, visit them with any questions.
• Is there a fire pit, and where can I get firewood?
  • Each tent site has its own fire pit. Yurts and treehouses have shared fire pits.
  • Firewood is available for $4.75 per bundle, either online or at the camp store.
  • Outside firewood is not allowed due to pest concerns. Collecting wood from the park is prohibited.
• What furniture is provided in the treehouses and yurts?

  Beds with mattresses and linens, some indoor seating, and outdoor seating.

• What’s in the kitchen?
  • Each unit includes a kitchenette, microwave, small fridge, single-cup coffee maker, and bottled water (where applicable).
  • An outdoor propane grill is provided for each yurt and treehouse.
  • The restroom/shower house has a sink for dishes and a free washing machine and dryer.
• Are the yurts and treehouses heated and air-conditioned?

  Yes, all treehouses and yurts have electric heating and air conditioning.

• Do I bring my own linens?

  Bed linens are provided for the specified occupancy number. Towels are only provided in the largest yurt and treehouse.

• How many vehicles are allowed per site, and where do I park?
  • Park in designated spots. A cart is provided to haul gear.
  • 1 vehicle per tent site, 2 vehicles per yurt or treehouse.
  • Register vehicles by license plate at check-in. Call if late with license plate info.
• Where are the restrooms and showers?

  The camp restroom is centrally located with individual shower stalls. Additional restrooms are in the day-use area.

• Where can I get water?
  • Water spigot near tent sites on the Sag.
  • Sink available in the camper kitchen inside the restroom/shower house.
• Can I bring my pet?
  • Pets are prohibited in yurts, treehouses, bathrooms, or other park buildings. Dogs are allowed at designated tent sites only.
  • Maximum of 2 dogs per site. Dogs must be on a leash and under control. Owners must clean up after pets.
  • Service dogs as defined by ADA are always welcome. Therapy or comfort animals do not qualify under ADA.
• Is smoking permitted?

  Smoking and vaping are prohibited in all areas except the parking lot.

• Can I have alcohol in my treehouse?
  • Alcohol is allowed only at campsites, treehouses, or yurts.
  • Excessive alcohol use, illegal drug use, or disorderly behavior will result in eviction without a refund.
  • Alcohol is prohibited in shared camp areas and outside the camp area.
• Can I have guests at my site?

  Non-registered guests are permitted during open park hours from 7 am to 10 pm only.

• What are the dimensions of the tent platforms?

  10' x 12'

• When is quiet time?

  Quiet time is from 10 pm to 7 am.

• Does the camp have laundry services?

  The restroom/shower house has a free washing machine and dryer for campers.