Newaygo State Park

Newaygo State Park is a 257-acre recreational area situated on elevated banks above Hardy Dam Pond in Michigan. The park contains campgrounds, an 18-hole disc golf course, swimming areas, and trail access for hiking and exploring the surrounding landscape.

The park was established in 1966 by Michigan's Department of Natural Resources as a public recreation area. Its creation involved a partnership with the power company that operated the dam upstream, making the waterfront accessible to visitors.

The park serves as a gathering place where visitors come to fish, boat, and relax along the water's edge during their free time. The numerous campsites and disc golf course show how people use this space to spend time outdoors with family and friends.

The park offers boat launches and fishing access along with designated swimming beaches and trail connections for hiking. Bring layers since the elevated location can be breezy, and visit in spring or fall for the best fishing conditions and comfortable temperatures.

The park protects a rare population of Karner blue butterflies, delicate insects that depend on wild lupine plants to survive. Staff manage the landscape specifically to ensure these vulnerable creatures have what they need to thrive.

Location: Newaygo County

Inception: 1966

Website: https://www2.dnr.state.mi.us/ParksandTrails/Details.aspx?id=477&type=SPRK

GPS coordinates: 43.50180,-85.59100

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:47