Allegan County, MI
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Parks and Recreation
3283 122nd Ave.
Allegan, MI 49010
(269) 686-9088
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Departments » Parks, Recreation and Tourism
Parks FAQs
Select the FAQs category you are interested in from the drop-down list below.
Expand/Contract Questions and Answers
- Yes, you may reschedule your reservation as long as you contact our office BEFORE your reservation date begins. After the start of your reservation, we cannot make changes.
- Yes. You may reschedule as long as there is availability for the new date you are requesting and you MUST call to reschedule BEFORE your reservation date. No changes can be made after your reservation date has passed.
- Yes however only NON-MOTORIZED watercraft is allowed.
- Yes. You may go to the campground and locate a site that does not have a reservation. These sites will have no tag or site marker hanging from the post. These sites are available on a first come first served basis to any walk in camper.
- Yes. The majority of our campsites have ample shade and plenty of trees.
- Non-motorized watercraft is allowed on Ely Lake. This includes, kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, rafts, etc. No motors are allowed, including electric motors. No watercraft shall be moored or left for more than 48 hours.
- No however ensure your horse(s) are healthy prior to entering campground or riding the trails.
- No
- Yes however they must be kept on a 6' foot leash
- No. Dogs are not allowed on the horse trails, at the beach, or in the water.
- No. These activities are prohibited by our park ordinance 1010.1 and local ordinances.
- No. Fires are not permitted anywhere in the park or pavilion or on the beach.
- No. Under no circumstances are fireworks allowed and anyone using fireworks will be asked to leave or will be removed from the park or campground.
- No. Fireworks are strictly prohibited anywhere in any of our county parks or campgrounds.
- A Special Event Use Permit application must be submitted to Parks Management for approval; application, policy and guidelines can be found on the Parks home page at www.allegancounty.org/parks
- Yes. Generators are allowed to be used ONLY during daytime hours. They must be shut off during quiet time, 10pm-7am.
- No. For safety purposes, glass is not allowed on the beach.
- With the new ORV/ATV ordinance in Allegan County, these vehicles are allowed in the park ONLY to drive to any from your campsite. No horseplay, loud/fast riding, and no riding on the Equestrian Trails. Anyone not following the guidelines for proper riding will be removed from the park.
- No, equestrian trails are for equestrians only.
- No, foot trails are for hikers only
- No. We do not have park offices at the park. Rangers and/or maintenance may be in and out of the parks daily to check on the park, but there are not set hours that they are or will be there.
- No. Our parks are still open to the public even during a reservation so parking spaces are on a first come first served basis.
- Yes. Pets are allowed. They must be kept on a 6ft leash at all times. Please clean up after your pet.
- Pets are allowed in the park as long as they remain on a 6ft leash. No pets are allowed at the beach area. Please do not leave your pet unattended and please clean up after your pet.
- No. Pets are not allowed at the beach area.
- Yes, only within your own rented campsite and if entire area is cleaned at departure
- Yes. RVs are allowed. Please make sure your site can accommodate your unit and follow posted guidelines regarding generator usage.
- Yes. Tents are allowed on all sites.
- Yes. Our campgrounds are ADA accessible.
- Yes. The campgrounds and parks are open year round. However, none of our parks or campgrounds are plowed during the winter season.
- Yes; equestrian trails are marked.
- No; foot trails are not marked.
- Yes. All of our parks are ADA accessible. There are ADA accessible playgrounds at all parks as well.
- Yes, however October through April the bathrooms are closed and there is no garbage pick-up.
- Yes. All of our pavilions are ADA accessible.
- No, there is a highway that goes between the trail systems.
- No.
- No. There are no group sites. When a reservation is being made, sites may be booked together, but we do not have any large group camp sites.
- We offer programs throughout the year in collaboration with the Outdoor Discovery Center at various parks. Check the Outdoor Discovery Center webpage for dates and signups.
- No. There is no water rental equipment available at Ely Lake.
- There is a seasonal kayak rental company that operates out of the New Richmond Bridge Park May thru October named Running Rivers. This is the only park with rentals.
- We do offer a senior discount for patrons 55 years and older for camping at Ely Lake Campground. The senior discount is 50% off our $17/night fee. ID proof of birthday must be given to our office staff, and when reserving sites online at Ely Lake using the senior discount, please call our office and have the office staff make the reservation for you. Customers are unable to apply the senior discount themselves if booking online.
- No. Not at this time.
- No, there are no watercraft rentals.
- No. Any of our campsites may be used by non-equestrians. There are particular campsites for equestrians that have picket posts for tying out horses and are larger to accommodate a horse trailer.
- None of our pavilions are fully enclosed. Littlejohn Park pavilion has one solid side to the pavilion, but the other 3 sides are open.
- No. There are no horses available to ride at the campgrounds. Equestrians trailer in their own horses.
- No. There are no lifeguards. All swimming is done at your own risk and parents/guardians are responsible for watching their children.
- No. There are no life guards on duty at any of our parks. Swimming is at your own risk and minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
- Yes, there are picnic tables and grills available for use in the day ride parking area.
- At trailheads there are picnic tables and grills available for use in the day ride parking areas at the campgrounds, and throughout the day use parks.
- No. We do not offer extended camping. We have a maximum 15 day stay per park ordinance 1010.1.
- Yes. Visitors are allowed at campsites but should vacate the premises by 10pm, which is also quiet time.
- No, all participants must pay launch fees and abide by all MI State DNR fishing laws https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/
- Yes. You may consume alcoholic beverages during your camping reservation at your designated campsite with a paid camping permit. Any loud, boisterous, disruptive behavior may result in your removal from the park.
- No. There is no alcohol allowed at our day use parks and pavilions.
- You may arrive early to decorate. However, if you have reserved the 2-9pm timeslot, and there is a 8am-1:30pm reservation in the pavilion, you must wait until that party vacated the pavilion to begin decorating.
- No, foot trails are for hiking only
- No, equestrian trails are for equestrians only however there are foot trails located in both campgrounds; see the campground maps on the Parks home page.
- A pig-roaster would fall under the scope of a special use permit event. You may apply for this permit with our office for $25 and you must provide your own certificate of liability insurance. Only after approval would a pig roaster be allowed.
Can I bring into the park my own backyard grill and/or personal items including chairs, coolers, and serving appliances?
You may bring in your own chairs and coolers. We ask that you utilize park grills if a grill is needed. Any other large items including pig roasters, large tents, arches, etc. would fall under the special use permit.- There is no wood for sale at the campground and you may bring your own locally purchased wood into the campground for burning.
- No. Bysterveld Park is a day use park. There is no overnight camping permitted anywhere in this park.
- No. Dumont Lake Park is a day use park. There is no overnight camping permitted anywhere in this park.
- No. Gun Lake Park is a day use park. There is no overnight camping permitted anywhere in this park.
- No. Littlejohn Lake Park is a day use park. There is no overnight camping permitted anywhere in this park.
- No. New Richmond Bridge Park is a day use park. There is no overnight camping permitted anywhere in this park.
- No. West Side Park is a day use park. There is no overnight camping permitted anywhere in this park.
- You may decorate the pavilion with party supplies. We ask that no permanent fixtures be placed in the pavilion, and anything you use to decorate with, be taken down or disposed of at the end of your event.
- Yes. You may get married or baptized on the beach. If you will be bringing in any large equipment, tents, arbors, etc., you must apply for a special use permit with our department.
- No, hiking is not allowed on the equestrian trails.
- Yes, you can hire a caterer. However, if you plan on bringing in large, bulky items, warming units, prep tables, etc., you must fill out a special use permit application and be approved.
- A Special Event Use Permit application must be submitted to Parks Management for approval; application, policy and guidelines can be found on the Parks home page.
- You may use the pavilion for a special event or gathering with permission from our Parks department. Any use that does not meet typical use can be applied for using a special use permit. Guidelines for a special use permit, including an application can be found on our webpage or by calling 269-686-9088.
- You may use the pavilion for a special event or gathering with permission from our Parks department. Any use that does not meet typical use can be applied for using a special use permit. Guidelines for a special use permit, including an application can be found on our webpage or by calling 269-686-9088.
- You may move the picnic tables but ask that the tables are put back before you vacate the pavilion. Please leave the pavilion as you found it.
- Yes. You may move the picnic tables around the park.
- Only if you pay the campsite fee of $17; occupying a campsite without a paid permit is not allowed.
- Only if you pay the campsite fee of $17 and $5 per horse per day fee; occupying a campsite without a paid permit is not allowed.
- You may play your own music from a phone or speaker. If there is a band, a special use permit and certificate of liability would be required.
- You may play your own music from a phone or speaker. If there is a band, a special use permit and certificate of liability would be required.
- No. These activities are not allowed without either a special use permit or commercial permit.
Can I set up a bounce house or any other item(s) that require set up including an arbor or rental chairs and/or tables?
These items would need a special use permit application and certificate of liability.- Any tents/canopies larger than 10' X 10' would fall under the scope of a special use permit and certificate of liability.
- Any tents/canopies larger than 10' X 10' would fall under the scope of a special use permit and certificate of liability.
- No. You must occupy your campsite within 24 hours of tagging your site. All nights must be paid for when tagging site. For example, if you tag a site at 8pm on Thursday but don't plan to occupy the site until Friday at 8pm, you MUST still pay for Thursday night camping. Even if you did not occupy the site.
- No. Please do not tie your horse up to a tree. Tying of horses to trees or tree cribbing is not allowed. Please use the designated picket posts at the equestrian sites.
- No. Not at this time.
- Yes. Off season camping is still $17/night and can be paid for in the fee pay tube located at the entrance to our park. Our rangers check the park and fee tube daily.
- Yes, $5/per horse day-ride fees must be paid; make payment using horse trail permits (gold envelopes) and fee tube in day ride area; be sure to properly display the stub on your windshield.
The county season pass also covers equestrian trail fees for all the horses on one trailer for the current year; be sure the season pass is properly displayed inside your windshield. Yes, $6/per watercraft/ day fees must be paid; make payment using watercraft permits (little gold envelopes) and fee tube located near the watercraft launch area; be sure to properly display the permit stub on your windshield.
The county season pass also covers watercraft launch fees for all the watercrafts on one trailer for the current year; be sure the season pass is properly displayed inside your windshield.
Note: the Gun Lake entry gate is disassembled during the off-season.
Do I still need an Allegan County season pass if I have a MI State park pass on my license plate or National Parks pass?
Yes, you still need an Allegan County season pass; state and national passes are not valid at Allegan County Parks and Campgrounds.- No. Our campgrounds are rustic. There are hand pumps for water, and vault toilets. There are no showers, running water, or electricity anywhere in the park.
Does my MI State park pass on my license plate or National Parks pass cover Allegan County watercraft launch fees?
No, state and national passes do not apply towards county watercraft launches.- No. The State Park pass is for entrance into STATE campgrounds. The National Park Pass is for entrance into NATIONAL parks.
- No, Silver Creek and Ely Lake equestrian trails are run by the county; other season passes are not valid in county parks or campgrounds.
- No. Your season doesn't cover the $17/night camping fee. The season pass is used for boat launch fees, and equestrian trail fees.
- Yes, the $25 season pass covers all the horses brought on one (1) trailer for day riding or all the horses on one (1) campsite when camping overnight during the current year. The season pass does not cover campsite fees. Be sure the season pass is properly displayed inside your windshield on the lower passenger side. See Season Pass & Gun Lake Cardkey FAQs for more information on purchasing the season pass.
- Yes. All of our pavilions have picnic tables and grills.
- No, the season pass does not cover the $17/per night overnight campsite fee.
- There are no entrance fees to enter any county day-use park.
- You can make a campsite reservation at least 5 business days in advance at www.reserveamerica.com or by calling our office during regular business hours. After the 5 business day window, or if you prefer, you may camp as a walk-in camper as availability allows.
How can I make a comment, compliment and/or complaint regarding the county parks, campgrounds, equestrian trails, or foot trails?
Options:
- For an emergency, please call 911.
- During regular business hours, you can call 269-686-9088
- After hours you may call the non-emergency line, 269-673-3899
- Email us at parks@allegancounty.org
- Please fill out our Customer Satisfaction Survey to let us know how we are doing
- You may go to our reservation site at www.reserveamerica.com and reserve a pavilion online, or you may call our office at 269-686-9088 and we can reserve for you over the phone. Payment is due at time of booking and there are no refunds for cancellations.
- Please contact us at parks@allegancounty.org to request information about volunteer opportunities.
- Please contact us at parks@allegancounty.org to request more information on our volunteer opportunities.
- Equestrian trail system has a volunteer group who has an Adopt-A-Trail program; contact Parks at parks@allegancounty.org for more information.
- Contact Parks at parks@allegancounty.org for more information.
- A campsite without a current reservation will not have a tag or marker on the campsite post. A clean post indicates this site is available and may be used for walk-in campers.
- You would need to go to the pavilion and see if anyone else has set up for a party in the pavilion. If they have not, you may use it. If a pavilion has been reserved online, a sign will be hanging on a plaque on the pavilion stating who has reserved it and for what times.
- Make payment using horse trail permits (gold envelopes) and fee tube located in day ride area; be sure to properly display the stub on your windshield. $5 / per horse / per day-ride fees (equestrian trail fees are not included in the campsite fees when camping).
- Once you locate a site you would like to camp on, you will take a camp envelope. Rip the tag off the envelope and place it on your camp post indicating you will be occupying the site. Place your payment for your requested nights into the envelope and place the envelope in the fee pay tube located at the front entrance to the park. A ranger will check this pay tube daily and may confirm your reservation with you at your site.
- Permits for deer and waterfowl hunting will be awarded for available weekends through a lottery.
- The number of permits issued for each weekend is limited to 1 for waterfowl and 1 for deer.
- Each permit holder may be accompanied by no more than one (individual).
- The available weekends (dates) for each deer seasons will be posted on Allegan County's Parks and Recreation Hunting webpage by April 15 of each year. Waterfowl season dates will be be posted as soon as they are available.
- Applications for the lottery will be accepted from May 1-June 30
- A separate application must be submitted for deer and waterfowl hunting seasons.
- Applications may be picked up at the reception area of the County Services Building, 3283 122nd Avenue, Allegan Township, or downloaded from this Recreation Hunting webpage.
- Completed applications may be submitted in person at the reception area of the County Services Building, 3283 122nd Avenue, Allegan Township or by emailing a copy of the application to parks@allegancounty.org.
- Submitted applications will then be assigned a number and by the end of July each year; those numbers will be entered and drawn using a randomizer.
- Once the lottery has been completed, the applicant will be notified as to whether they were awarded a permit or not, within one week of lottery drawing date by Parks Administrative Staff. The awarded applicant will then have until September 1 pay for and pick up the permit. The applicant will need to provide the following in order to be issued the official permit:
- Verify County Residence
- Verify Age
- Verify Hunting Safety Certificate
- Verify Hunting License
- Hunting Fee ($10 per every weekend permitted)
- The applicant must carry their permit with them at all times during the approved hunting weekend.
- Approved permits are non-transferrable.
- Permits for deer and waterfowl hunting will be awarded for available weekends through a lottery.
- Once a user purchases a season pass and requests a Gun Lake cardkey, they receive a cardkey that is already activated and ready to open the gate. At the end of the current year the card will be deactivated'.DO NOT DISCARD THE CARDKEY! To continue use, once the user purchases a season pass for the new year, their cardkey will be reactivated. Note: cardkeys are reactivated remotely and may take a few days.
- Users pull up to the gate to either launch or retrieve their watercraft, the cardkey is waved in front of the gate machine to open the gate; parking lot is located across the street from the park.
- The season pass is valid January through December of the current year.
- There are 30 miles that surround each campground; total 60 miles.
- Silver Creek Campground - .25 foot trail located within park boundaries only
- Bysterveld Park - ADA accessible; around 2 miles foot trail located within park boundaries only
- Littlejohn Lake Park - around 2 miles foot trail located within park boundaries only
- New Richmond Bridge Park '- ADA accessible around 0.65 miles foot trail located within park boundaries only
- One (1) single family or no more that four (4) unrelated persons may camp on one designated campsite. A single family includes parents or guardians and their children and other relatives if not more than two (2) temporary living units is used and there are fewer than 9 individuals.
- No more than 2 tents per site; Or 1 tent and 1 trailer per site
- 2 vehicles per campsite. Any overflow parking can be done at the park entrance or at the discretion of the ranger.
- $25 (note: there is an additional $1.50 fee when paying with a credit/debit card)
- $5 per horse per day
- There is no charge to enter any county park or campground, or to hike the foot trails.
How much does it cost to get a Gun Lake cardkey to open the automatic gate at the watercraft launch?
There is no additional cost to the $25 season pass fee when the Gun Lake cardkey is requested however there is a $10 fee to replace a lost, destroyed or discarded cardkey.- There is a $10 replacement fee if the cardkey is lost, destroyed or discarded; $35 total when purchasing a current year season pass.
- $5 / per horse / per day-ride fees (equestrian trail fees are not included in the campsite fees when camping); make payment using horse trail permits (gold envelopes) and fee tube located in day ride area; be sure to properly display the stub on your windshield.
- There is no charge to use the boat wash.
- $6 per watercraft/per day at Dumont Lake and New Richmond Bridge Parks; make payment (cash or check made out to Allegan County) using watercraft launch permits (gold envelopes) and fee tube in watercraft launch area; be sure to properly display the permit stub on your windshield to show you made payment.
- $3 per entry at the Gun Lake Park watercraft launch automatic entry gate; make payment with either cash or credit/debit card (note: gate must be entered for every launch or retrieval).
- The $25 county season pass / Gun Lake cardkey also covers watercraft launch fees for all the watercrafts on one trailer for the current year; see Season Pass & Gun Lake Cardkey FAQs for more information.
- You may reserve a pavilion up to a year in advance.
- Yes, $5/per horse day-ride fees are not included in the campsite fees; make payment using horse trail permits and fee tube in day ride area; be sure to properly display the stub on your windshield.
The county season pass also covers equestrian trail fees for all the horses on one (1) campsite for the current year; be sure the season pass is properly displayed inside your windshield. - Before selling your vehicle, peel off the season pass sticker (use razor blade if necessary - even if in pieces), stick on paper showing season pass # and year; return to the parks office for a replacement at no charge.
Otherwise, if you have already sold your vehicle and did not remove the sticker, you will need to purchase a new season pass. - No, only Allegan County Residents are eligible for lottery.
- No refunds are given for not camping due to bad weather, insects, personal reasons, etc.
I did not camp during my reserved time due to bad weather (or other issue); can I reschedule at this time?
You cannot reschedule a reservation AFTER the reservation day begins. If you contact our office and ask to reschedule BEFORE your reservation begins, we can change your reservation dates at no charge.I did not use the pavilion during my reserved time due to bad weather (or other issue); can I get a refund?
No. There are no refunds given if the pavilion is cancelled or not used due to inclement weather.I did not use the pavilion during my reserved time due to bad weather (or other issue); can I reschedule at this time?
No. You cannot reschedule a reservation AFTER the reservation day. You may call BEFORE your scheduled day and change your reservation to another date depending on availability.- Only if they are from a single family. Per Park Ordinance 1010.1: A person shall not allow more than one (1) single family or more than four (4) unrelated persons to camp on one designated campsite. A single family includes parents or guardians and their children and other relatives and cannot stay in more than two (2) temporary living units, i.e. tent, camper, recreational unit, or combination thereof, is used and there are fewer than 9 individuals.
- Yes, the season pass must be permanently adhered to the inside lower right of the windshield to be valid therefore you would need two season passes.
- Yes. Please contact our office and we can make the site change for you as long as the site you want to switch to is available. You can also change sites once you arrive at the campground if there are other sites available and there is no active reservation indicated by a marker on the camp post. Take your tag with you to the new campsite and inform our office or a park ranger of the change.
- You may arrive earlier than 2pm, but if another party is using the pavilion, you must wait until your 2pm timeslot to begin using the pavilion for your exclusive use. If no one is in the pavilion, you may set up earlier than 2pm.
I reserved the pavilion for a half day 8am-1:30pm. After vacating the pavilion, do my guests have to leave the park?
No. You and your guests may continue to enjoy the use of the park and the facilities within the park. You must just clear out of the pavilion and clean up any garbage from your party.- If you check the reservation sign and see that there isn't another party arriving at 2pm, then you may stay in the pavilion. If another party has the pavilion reserved from 2-9pm, you must vacate the pavilion so they can use the pavilion during their allotted time.
- No. Alcohol is not permitted on the premises at any of our day use parks or pavilions.
- For questions regarding dispersed camping, please contact the DNR office at 269-673-2430 or the Plainwell office at 266-685-6851.
- No. No fishing is allowed in swimming areas.
- Yes. Fishing is allowed at our campgrounds. Fishing is not allowed in swimming areas. MI State DNR fishing laws and licenses apply (anyone 17 years or older must have a valid fishing license), State of Michigan DNR
- Yes, Allegan County has establish a policy for Allegan County residents to hunt waterfowl (Goose/Teal/Duck) or deer (bow hunting only) during specific times on County Services Dumont Complex property to help control wildlife population. Permits for deer and waterfowl hunting will be awarded for available weekends through a lottery. The County hunting permit application which must be completed by individuals desiring to hunt deer or waterfowl (goose, teal, and duck) seasons within the County Services Dumont Complex must submit applications to the Parks & Recreation Department. The Permit holder must be at least 18 years to apply. Please read policy for additional details and the rules and regulations.
- No, hunting is not allowed at any Allegan County owned or run parks or campgrounds.
- Yes. This activity is allowed but please be mindful of other park patrons. See our ordinance 1010.1 for more information.
- No. Smoking is not allowed in our public parks.
- No. There is no smoking allowed in the pavilion.
- No. There are no camp hosts at the campground. We have rangers that make daily rounds through the campgrounds and any questions or concerns can be addressed with them onsite or by calling our office at 269-686-9088.
Is there a charge to come into Ely Lake Campground for the day to swim, fish, or use the watercraft launch or picnic at either campground?
No, there is no charge to enter the campground for day use.- No. There is no charge to enter the campground for day use.
- No, there is no charge to enter any county park; only fees include pavilion reservations, watercraft launch, and campsite fees.
- No, there is no charge to use the pavilion at Silver Creek Campground. The pavilion is available first come/first served basis and cannot be reserved. However the pavilion will remain available for event organizers who have obtained a Special Use Permit through the Parks Office.
Yes, if you want to guarantee it will be available for your gathering. If the pavilion is VACANT and not signed as reserved, the pavilion can be used on a first come, first served basis.
Reservations costs:
- Bysterveld Park
- Half day (8am-1:30pm or 2pm-9pm) - $80
- Full day (8am-9pm) - $150
- Dumont Lake Park
- Half day (8am-1:30pm or 2pm-9pm) - $50
- Full day (8am-9pm) - $80
- Gun Lake Park
- Half day (8am-1:30pm or 2pm-9pm) - $50
- Full day (8am-9pm) - $80
- Littlejohn Lake Park
- Half day (8am-1:30pm or 2pm-9pm) - $10
- Full day (8am-9pm) - $160
- Silver Creek Campground
- No charge; available first come, first serve
- West Side Park
- Half day (8am-1:30pm or 2pm-9pm) - $50
- Full day (8am-9pm) - $80
- Bysterveld Park
- Yes. Each campsite has a designated fire ring.
- Yes. Each campsite has its own designated picnic table.
- No. All ages of children may utilize the playground.
- Paid camper's are allowed to have ORV's at Ely Lake Campground BUT can only drive them from entrance/exit to campsite and back to entrance/exit at the posted speed limit of the campground.
- Yes. There are stairs that lead down to the beach area that are open for use.
- Gun Lake Park, Dumont Lake Park, and Littlejohn are our only pavilions with electricity.
- Issued cardkeys that have been (re)activated but are not working must be returned to the Parks Office for a replacement cardkey at no charge (must return non-working cardkey to get the replacement).
- No. Pets must be kept on a 6ft leash at all times.
The ADA ramp to the beach on Lake Michigan at West Side Park is no longer there; what happened to the ramp?
Due to high water levels and erosion, the ramp was washed away and unsafe. It may be replaced in the future, but beach erosion will need to be monitored before any rebuilding can be done.There is a boat wash located in the parking lot at Gun Lake Park; why and when should I use the boat wash?
To avoid the transfer of invasive species, it is recommended to use the boat wash before and after going into Gun Lake.- You can use the picnic tables, grills, and facilities at the park. You are responsible for cleaning up your trash after your event. All waste can be disposed of in provided garbage cans and/or dumpsters. Please leave the pavilion as you found it.
- The person using the day ride area is responsible for restoring the area to its original condition by cleaning/disposing area of all hay waste and manure. While riding the equestrian trail system, stay on the trails and practice leave no trace ethics. Trail users must always adhere to park and trail rules; see Parks Ordinance #1010-1 on Parks home page.
- While hiking the foot trails, practice leave no trace ethics. Trail users must always adhere to park and trail rules; see Parks Ordinance #1010-1on Parks home page
- Please follow park rules that are posted at each entrance. Please adhere to quiet times, clean up your campsite, and do not dispose of trash in fire pits.
- May - September 7am-9:30pm
October - April 8am-8pm What are the parents / guardians responsibilities for minors while at the watercraft launch or fishing?
- Children under age of twelve (12) shall be under the immediate supervision of a responsible adult, eighteen (18) years of age or older, at all times.
- There are no life-guards on duty at the launches or lakes; immediate supervision of all minor children is recommended.
- While fishing at any county location, MI State DNR fishing laws and licenses apply (anyone 17 years or older must have a valid fishing license) State of Michigan DNR
What are the parents / guardians responsibilities for minors while in the campgrounds, riding the trails, or on the beach (Ely Lake)?
Parents are responsible for their minors and any activities their minors are participating in when using any of our parks. There are no lifeguards so parents must monitor children while swimming.- Children under age of twelve (12) shall be under the immediate supervision of a responsible adult, eighteen (18) years of age or older, at all times.
- It is recommended all minors under eighteen (18) be under the immediate supervision of a responsible adult, eighteen (18) years of age or older, at all times.
- Children under age of twelve (12) shall be under the immediate supervision of a responsible adult, eighteen (18) years of age or older, at all times.
- It is recommended all minors under eighteen (18) be under the immediate supervision of a responsible adult, eighteen (18) years of age or older, at all times.
- Please clean up after your pet. Do not leave your pet unattended and please keep them on a 6ft or less leash. Pets are not allowed at the beach area.
- Quiet hours are 10pm to 7am. No generators must be used during this timeframe.
- All the horses on one (1) trailer or campsite for day riding the equestrian trails and/or one (1) trailer at the watercraft launches.
What happens if I forgot to pay or properly display the permit stub or season pass in my windshield?
Make payment once you realize you failed to pay. Park Rangers and Maintenance Staff make their rounds at the campgrounds at various times on a daily basis. If you have not properly displayed the permit stub, season pass or failed to make payment, either a reminder will be left on your windshield to make payment or citation for recurring violations. Park Rangers have season passes to sell at the campground.- Arriving after check-in time is fine. Just begin setting up camp once you arrive. If you will be arriving the next day, please contact our office and inform staff of your late arrival. Any campsites not occupied within 48 hours of the beginning of the reservation may be forfeited.
- If your site is unoccupied when you arrive, you may begin setting up camp at your site. If someone is still occupying the site and you have arrived early, you must wait for that camper to vacate the site before you may occupy.
What if I arrive for my pavilion reservation and the previous party or other park users are occupying the pavilion?
If they refuse to leave after informing them of your reservation, please call the Allegan non-emergency line at 269-673-3899. Dispatch will contact one of our rangers to come to the park and ask them to leave.What if I arrive for my pavilion reservation and there is debris on the tables and garbage not put into barrels or the dumpster?
You can call the non-emergency number at 269-673-3899 to contact a ranger if there is an extensive mess left behind by a previous party.What if I arrive for my reservation at check-in 3pm or later, and someone else is occupying the campsite?
Our rangers mark reservations on camp posts weekly. Sometimes these tags fall off, blow away, or are removed by other campers. If you arrive for your reservation and someone else is occupying your site, you may show them your reservation and ask them kindly to vacate. If you do not feel comfortable doing this, or if the campers are belligerent, you can contact one of our rangers by calling the non-emergency line at 269-673-3899 and dispatch will send a ranger to your location.What if I fail to appropriately clean the pavilion after my reservation and leave debris on the tables and garbage not put into barrels or the dumpster?
If you fail to clean up after your event, we reserve the right to charge you a cleaning fee based on how many hours it takes our staff to clean the area.What if I forgot to pay or properly display the permit stub on my windshield while using the watercraft launch?
Park Rangers and Park Maintenance staff have no set hours at any given park, however can be seen at any time and will check parking lots for permit stubs or season pass. If you have not properly displayed the permit stub, park staff will leave notice on your windshield and you are expected to pay at that time. Failure to pay fees may result in a citation.What if I forgot to pay or properly display the permit stub when arriving first come/first served without a reservation?
If you forget to display your reservation tag, your site will be viewed as unoccupied and another party may take that site and begin camping on it. If you haven't paid or displayed the tag, but have set up camping equipment, our ranger will try to contact you to sort things out. If she cannot locate you, your belongings may be removed and placed into storage until you can be contacted.- You may leave early. However, there are no refunds given for any nights you do not stay.
- You may stay beyond your reservation as long as the site does not have a new reservation arriving during the time you would like to stay. You can simply pay for these extra nights in a camping envelope at the fee pay tube and attach a new camp tag to your camp post.
- If there is not another reservation arriving on the day you are scheduled to leave, then there shouldn't be an issue with you running behind. If there is in fact a reservation arriving that day, we ask that you please remove your belongings in a timely fashion and be respectful to the next group of campers arriving. If you refuse to vacate your site, deputies will be called in to move your belongings.
- There should be several barrels available throughout the park. If the one closest to your pavilion is full, please utilize another barrel, or use the dumpster that is available at each park.
- Check in is 5pm and Check out is 3pm.
- $17 per night
- If you cancel a camping reservation 10 business days or more before your arrival, you are given a full refund minus the $5 online reservation fee. If you cancel after the 10 business day window, no refunds are given.
- There are no refunds given if a pavilion is cancelled.
- Speed limit is 15 MPH throughout the park.
- The entire equestrian trail system is located within the Allegan State Game Area, therefore the terrain can vary greatly depending on where you are on the trail.
Per the DNR State of Michigan website:
- Bysterveld pond is catch and release ONLY: Blue gill
- Dumont Lake: Bluegill, Largemouth Bass, Muskie, Northern Pike, Rock Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Yellow Perch
- Ely Lake: Black Crappie, Bluegill, Bullhead, Channel Catfish, Golden Shiner, Grass Pickerel, Lake Chub Sucker, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Warmouth, Yellow Perch
- Gun Lake: Catfish, Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Smallmouth Bass, Sunfish, Walleye, Yellow Perch
- Littlejohn Lake: Crappie, Bream/Bluegill, Largemouth Bass, Perch
- Kalamazoo River at New Richmond Bridge Park: Carp, Catfish, Smallmouth Bass, Sucker, Sunfish, Walleye, Rock Bass
- Silver Creek is a trout stream
What other trails are managed / maintained by Allegan County Parks other than the equestrian trails and foot trails listed above?
None however may be found under another municipality:
- Cross-Country Skiing: the foot trails surrounding Ely Lake Campground in the state game area become the cross-country ski trails during the winter; contact MI DNR website: State of Michigan DNR
- Bike Trails: Michigan Trails & Greenway Alliance Michigan Bike Trails
- Snowmobile Trails: Allegan County Snowmobile Club (private) website: Allegan County Snowmobile Club
- Off-road, ATV, dirt bike trails: None located in Allegan County
In case of emergency on the trail, dial 911
NOTE: trail markers will give the trail name and GPS location; trail maps also have trail names and show emergency locations. If possible, try to make your way to the nearest marker to identify your location.
For non-emergency trail issues, such as trees down or impassable trails:- If present, make contact with the Park Ranger or Park Maintenance Staff
- 8am-5pm Monday ' Friday, contact the Parks Office 269-686-9088 or email parks@allegancounty.org
- Equestrian trails located outside campground boundaries are maintained by a volunteer group; contact Parks at parks@allegancounty.org for more information
In case of emergency on the foot trail, dial 911
For non-emergency issues:- If present, make contact with the Park Ranger or Park Maintenance Staff
- 8am-5pm Monday-Friday, contact the Parks Office 269-686-9088 or email parks@allegancounty.org
- Foot trails located outside campground boundaries in the Allegan State Game Area: contact the DNR State Game Headquarters at 269-673-2430
What should I do if there is an issue or emergency anywhere in the campground (including vandalism or illegal activity)?
For a non-emergency, if it is during regular business hours, you may call 269-686-9088 and we can contact a ranger. For after hours, please contact non-emergency at 269-673-3899 and a ranger will be notified. For all emergencies, please dial 911.What should I do if there is an issue or emergency anywhere in the park (including vandalism or illegal activity)?
You can call our parks office during regular business hours at 269-686-9088 and report a non-emergency issue. If there is an emergency, please call 911 for assistance.For an emergency, dial 911.
For non-emergency issues:- If present, make contact with the Park Ranger or Park Maintenance Staff
- 8am-5pm Monday-Friday, contact the Parks Office 269-686-9088 or email parks@allegancounty.org
- After hours for issues that cannot wait, call Central Dispatch non-emergency # 269-673-3899
What should I do if there is an issue or emergency while hunting at the Dumont Complex (including vandalism or illegal activity)?
For an emergency, dial 911.
For non-emergency issues:- 8am-5pm Monday-Friday, contact the Parks Office 269-686-9088 or email parks@allegancounty.org
- After hours for issues that cannot wait, call Central Dispatch non-emergency # 269-673-3899
The season pass can be purchased the first business day of the current year as follows:
- View more information on Season Pass web page
- Phone using credit/debit card at 269-686-9088
- Mail order form
- Parks Office, 3283 122nd Avenue, Allegan, 8am-5pm Monday-Friday
- Park Rangers have season passes to sell while in the parks and campgrounds
- Manlius Township Office, 3134 57th Street, Fennville, 9am - 4pm on Monday & Wednesday, and 9am - Noon Friday
- Volunteers occasionally have season passes to sell while at Silver Creek Campground
- Equestrian trails are open year-round EXCEPT during fire-arm hunting season (last two weeks in November); bright colored clothing always recommended when using the equestrian trails in the fall.
- Foot trails are open year-round EXCEPT during fire-arm hunting season (last two weeks in November); bright colored clothing recommended when using the trails in the fall.
When camping without a reservation, do I have to pay for all the nights at once or can I make payment one day at a time?
Yes, please pay for all nights of camping at once. If at the end of your reservation, you decide you would like to stay longer, you may pay for additional nights.- You can reserve a campsite up to a year in advance of your intended arrival. You should reserve a campsite at least 5 business days in advance of your intended arrival or else you will have to find a site on a first come first served walk in basis.
When I buy a season pass and renew my Gun Lake cardkey, do I have to come in person to reactivate my cardkey?
No, all cardkeys are reactivated/deactivated remotely and the cardkey does not have to be present.- Park Staff is notified to reactivate the cardkey which is usually completed within two (2) business days of receiving the order.
- Season pass online orders are processed and mailed usually within two (2) business days of receiving the order.
- Our park staff will hang a RESERVED sign with your party information on the plaque on the pavilion the day of your event. This should alert others to an upcoming reservation. If you arrive and others are occupying during your reserved time slot, please call the non-emergency line at 269-673-3899 and dispatch will notify park staff.
- Dumont Lake watercraft launch: 2250 33rd Street, Allegan
- Gun Lake Park: 2397 Patterson Road, Wayland
- New Richmond Bridge Park: 3160 Old Allegan Road, Fennville
- Bysterveld pond: 4171 14th Street, Wayland (catch and release ONLY)
- Dumont Lake watercraft launch: 2250 33rd Street, Allegan
- Gun Lake watercraft launch: 2397 Patterson Road, Wayland
- New Richmond Bridge Park: 3160 Old Allegan Road, Fennville; there are several fishing piers with benches located on both sides of the park/river and boardwalk along the Kalamazoo River.
- Ely Lake Campground - 5020 ' 116th Avenue, Fennville
- Silver Creek Campground - 3900 ' 134th Avenue, Hamilton
- Ely Lake Campground - 5020 116th Avenue, Fennville
- Silver Creek Campground - 3900 134th Avenue, Hamilton
- Bysterveld Park - 4171 14th Street, Wayland
- Littlejohn Lake Park - 3540 113th Avenue, Allegan
- New Richmond Bridge Park - 3160 Old Allegan Road, Fennville
- Campground maps can be found at the entrance to the park. If none are available, you can also find them on our website www.allegancounty.org, or you can email us at parks@allegancounty.org, or you can stop a ranger in the park and request a map.
- Ely Lake Campground - MI DNR website; Ely Lake Campground map and equestrian trail maps are located at the campground information board or by accessing park from Parks, Photos, Locations page.
- Silver Creek Campground - Silver Creek Campground map is located at the campground information board or by accessing park from Parks, Photos, Locations page.
- Bysterveld Park - access park from Parks, Photos, Locations page.
- Littlejohn Lake Park - currently no map available
- New Richmond Bridge Park - access park from Parks, Photos, Locations page.
- Equestrian trail maps can be found in the day ride area or online at www.allegancounty.org/parks
- Campsite size information can be found on our website under the specific campground. You can also go to reserveamerica.com and find site size, or you can call our office at 269-686-9088 and ask for specific site sizing.
- Contact the DNR State of Michigan at 269-685-6851
- Allegan County Dumont Complex Hunt Map can be found on the Hunting Allegan County Property webpage
- Allegan County Hunting Application can be found on the Hunting Allegan County Property webpage
- Allegan County Hunting Policy can be found on the Hunting Allegan County Property webpage
- Parks Ordinance # 1010.1 can be found on the Parks homepage
- Equestrian trail maps can be found at the information boards at the campgrounds, or online at www.allegancounty.org/parks, link on left side of page
- EQUESTRIAN TRAILS
- Silver Creek Campground (30 miles): 3900 ' 134th Avenue, Hamilton
- Ely Lake Campground (30 miles): 5020 ' 116th Avenue, Fennville
- WATERCRAFT LAUNCHES
- Dumont Lake Watercraft Launch: 2250 ' 33rd Street, Allegan
- *Gun Lake Park: 2397 Patterson Road, Wayland *requires a cardkey to open entry gate
- New Richmond Bridge Park: 3160 Old Allegan Road, Fennville
- EQUESTRIAN TRAILS
- Parking is available in the day-ride parking at the campgrounds, or use parking lots at the parks.
- The season pass must be permanently adhered to the inside lower right (passenger side) of the windshield to be valid.
- All of our parks have open areas for play.
- Bysterveld, Dumont, Gun Lake, Littlejohn, and West Side Park all have ADA accessible playgrounds.
- Littlejohn Lake park has designated baseball fields. The rest of the parks have open green spaces for play.
While hiking the foot trails, there is an unmarked trail that is not on the map. Is it okay to hike off-trail?
No, any trail not on the map is an ILLEGAL trail and you could be fined by the DNR State of Michigan when in the State Game Area.While riding the equestrian trails, there is an unmarked trail that is not on the map. Is it okay to ride off-trail?
No, any trail not on the map is an ILLEGAL trail and you could be fined by the DNR State of Michigan.Why am I not allowed to tag and pay for a campsite myself at the campground to reserve it prior to my arrival date?
You are not allowed to do this to make it fair for all campers. Tagging a site and not occupying makes it unfair for campers who do want to utilize the campground for that time period.- Reserving a pavilion ensures that you will have exclusive use of the pavilion during your allotted time slot. Without a reservation, other parties may also use the pavilion or may arrive first and then they have use of the pavilion.