Newaygo State Park sits atop 20-foot embankments overlooking the Hardy Dam Pond (a 6-mile flooding of the Muskegon River). The 400-acre park features two rustic campgrounds, an 18-hole disc golf course and a boating access site. The park borders the Manistee National Forest, offering easy access to trails, hunting and other outdoor recreation.
A 2-mile stretch of the Dragon Trail – jointly managed by the Newaygo and Mecosta county park commissions – traverses the embankment and provides overviews of the Hardy Dam Pond. The park's best access point is the boating access site parking lot. In addition, the Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park is just 7 miles east of the park providing hiking and biking opportunities. There is a trailhead staging area in Morley.
Please be aware that endangered blue Karner butterfly habitat is located on the west side of the powerline and be mindful of where you are walking.
The park can experience a natural cyclical population surge with spongy moth larvae in the summer months. Although harmless, they can be a nuisance, especially during the daylight hours. If you have any questions regarding the status during the summer months or have any questions, please contact the park.
There is a picnic shelter located near the disc golf course that includes picnic tables, charcoal grills and electrical service (reservations only). Shelter reservations can be made 12 months in advance at MiDNRReservations.com.
A boat launch is located on Hardy Dam Pond between the two campgrounds. There are a limited number of mooring spots for registered campers.
The popular 18-hole course is open year-round.
The majority of anglers launch boats from the park’s boating access site on Hardy Dam Pond, but there also is a small section of shoreline near the channel that is well suited for shore fishing. There are a limited number of mooring spots located near the boating access site for registered campers.
During the ice fishing season, anglers can access the lake with ORVs and snowmobiles. Parking is available in the disc golf parking area, and a few campsites are kept plowed for additional parking.
Hunting is allowed in the state park; however, you should call this park directly to inquire about any special rules, concerns or considerations.
Kayak rentals are available at the campground office early June through mid-September. For more information, call 231-856-4452.
Paddling is a popular activity on Hardy Dam Pond.
The park’s sanitation station is located near the campground office. There is potable water available and one lane.
A buoyed swim area on Hardy Dam Pond is located in the Poplar Rustic Campground, just a short walk from the boating access site. Parking is available at the boating access site.
The park is situated on the Hardy Dam Pond – a 6-mile flooding of the Muskegon River.
The Oak (sites #1-48) and Poplar (sites #49-99) campgrounds are noted for large, private sites and scenic beauty with 20- to 30-foot forested buffers between sites.
There is access to drinking water and a place to fill trailers with potable water at the park's sanitation station. There are no electricity, modern restrooms or showers.
The park can experience a natural cyclical population surge with spongy moth larvae in the summer months. Although harmless, they can be a nuisance, especially during the daylight hours. If you have any questions regarding the status during the summer months or have any questions, please contact the park.
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