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Oxbow Township Park
Overview
Oxbow Township Park offers a traditional Michigan camping experience set against the backdrop of the Muskegon River. Managed by Newaygo County, this destination provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to reconnect with nature. The park is characterized by its spacious sites and lush forest cover, creating a serene woodland atmosphere that appeals to weekenders and long-term travelers alike. It serves as a gateway to the expansive Hardy Dam Pond, offering a blend of quiet relaxation and active outdoor recreation.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in the heart of Newaygo, MI, the park sits along the shores of the Hardy Dam Pond, a massive 4,000-acre reservoir. The surrounding area is defined by rolling hills and dense hardwood forests, providing a stunning canopy during the fall months. Its position on the water makes it a focal point for the region's river culture, where the slow-moving current and expansive water views dominate the landscape. The park feels tucked away from the hustle of city life while remaining accessible via scenic county roads.
Amenities & Park Features
The park caters to various camping styles, offering both electric and rustic sites that accommodate RVs and tents. Visitors have access to a dedicated boat launch, making it easy to get onto the water for a day of exploration. For families, the park features a sandy swimming beach and multiple playground areas. Essential facilities include vault toilets and potable water stations strategically placed throughout the grounds. The layout is designed to maximize privacy, with many sites offering significant space between neighbors.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Adventure seekers will appreciate the park's proximity to the Dragon at Hardy Dam, a world-class mountain biking and hiking trail system that loops around the reservoir. Fishing is a major draw here, with the pond being home to walleye, bass, and panfish. Just a short drive away, the town of Newaygo offers charming local shops and eateries. For a longer day trip, the North Country National Scenic Trail passes through the region, providing miles of scenic hiking opportunities through the Manistee National Forest.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal match for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize water access and trail proximity over resort-style luxuries. It is perfect for families who enjoy traditional camping activities like campfires, swimming, and fishing. If you are an RVer looking for a quiet, nature-focused basecamp to explore the Dragon Trail or paddle the Muskegon River, Oxbow Township Park provides the perfect setting. It is best suited for those who appreciate a rustic environment where the sounds of the forest take center stage.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Internet
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
David Slater
Wonderful place to camp great view from the campsites all the way down to the dam. Nice beach with a water slide playground equipment and handicap 4 wheel floating device. Ways to station was always clean and make sure you follow the 5 mi an hour rule. I made the mistake of going a little too fast and they let me know about it so you can rest assured that safety is well kept at this campground as well
Anthony Wright
It’s a nice place to stay. 3 stars because the bathrooms haven’t been updated since jimmy carter was president. The WiFi sucks it is only available in part of the park. The views are amazing and the staff were friendly.
Daniel Cavanaugh
Great park for camping, picnics and boat launch. Easy in and out for a day on the water.
Tony Bykerk
Nice park. Good access to hardy pond. Sites are a bit small. Looks like the seasonal have all the best spots. Bathrooms are clean. Some of the seasonal campers areas are a bit junky.
Ben ick
No bedding no ac and must get 2 nights to reserve is only downside. If those are musts than this is a great cheap place to rent while fishing hardy dam. Lots of parking for big boats
Larisa Mcmartin
Super cute campground! Will definitely be back. Couple inconveniences are the main garbages aren't close to a lot of the sites and there's only one dump station. The camp host was phenomenal!!
Emelia Taylor (Emily)
Definitely one if the best kept secret spots in Newaygo! We love camping here and have family that are seasonal site campers. Bathrooms are numerous, clean and well maintained. The swim area is the perfect size for little kids and big kids alike. Our kids especially enjoyed the new fishing pier this year. We will be back!
Louis Bellanca
Camped here to ride the dragon MTB trail. The campground has an awesome location right off the trial. There are many docks available and a nice beach for water activities. I recommend based on the location alone. My downgrade of the rating is due to 2 main issues. The campgrounds are very small. You are lucky to fit 2 cars on some of the sites so you need to choose wisely. Next issue is that there are super power led lights throughout the camp that come on at night. They are so bright I thought Beetleguse went supernova whan I was camping seriously the lights were bright enough that it will keep you awake when tent camping. If you have an RV it will not be so noticeable.
ADVENTURES with HAYES
Found this place called OXBOW CAMPGROUND in COLUMBIAVILLE on @googlemaps looking for a weekend getaway that was still close to home and knew this was the place to be so I pulled up expeditiously! You hike 1.5 miles into this low key bugout spot that some of the people in town don’t even know about. The scenery is amazing and the ZEN I felt standing along the riverbank just listening to the water flow is something I won’t forget. The only reason I bring my firearm is for animals that are larger than I and possible crazy folks that I may encounter on my path to seek enlightenment. Plus… THIS IS PURE MICHIGAN it’s LEGAL. So this is how it goes… you park in a turnaround spot get out and mount up to go directly into the forest. It’s a trek thru the woods but leisurely and depending on your conditioning it’ll take you 1-2 trips based on what you need to bring to set up camp. It’s been raining for days all over the state so I brung firewood which forced me to make the extra trip after setting up base camp. If you are looking to obtain a weekend of PEACE where most certainly nobody will be this is the spot for YOU and we can make that happen on “ADVENTURES with HAYES!”
Jimmy M.
Awesome alot of working getting done lately. A cell tower some where in the area would greatly help.