Back Forty Ranch










Back Forty Ranch Overview
Rating
Address 3180 W Wilke Rd, Rothbury, MI 49452, USA
Hours
Back Forty Ranch Location & Map
MichiganOceana CountyRothburyWest Wilke Road
Back Forty Ranch About
For Michigan families and adventurers seeking a destination that offers much more than just a place to camp, Back Forty Ranch in Rothbury, Michigan, is an experience in itself. Part of the larger Double JJ Resort, the "Back Forty" area specifically evokes a charming Old West town atmosphere, providing a unique backdrop for your vacation. This is not just a campground; it’s a full-fledged resort experience that combines outdoor living with exciting activities and diverse lodging options, making it a truly exceptional destination for locals looking for an unforgettable getaway.
Back Forty Ranch is designed to provide a comprehensive family vacation. From the moment you arrive, you'll find a wide array of activities that cater to all ages, from thrilling water rides to relaxing horseback excursions. Reviewers consistently highlight the friendly and professional staff, emphasizing their dedication to ensuring guests have a fantastic time. Whether you're staying in an RV, a tent, or one of their charming cabins, the resort's commitment to fun and family-friendly entertainment shines through, promising a vacation packed with memories.
Back Forty Ranch is located at 3180 W Wilke Rd, Rothbury, MI 49452, USA. Rothbury is a small community in Oceana County, Michigan, renowned for its natural beauty and proximity to Lake Michigan. The resort's location offers a perfect balance: it's nestled in a scenic, rural setting, providing a peaceful retreat, yet it remains easily accessible from major population centers across Michigan. For instance, it's just a short drive from US-31, a primary north-south highway that connects to many parts of West Michigan.
Being part of the larger Double JJ Resort means that while Back Forty Ranch has its distinct charm, guests also benefit from the resort's well-developed infrastructure and signage. This ensures straightforward navigation for visitors arriving by car or RV. The location in Oceana County also places guests near other popular Michigan attractions, such as the Silver Lake Sand Dunes and various Lake Michigan beaches, providing ample opportunities for day trips and further exploration of the state's natural wonders.
As part of the Double JJ Resort, Back Forty Ranch offers an extensive array of services and amenities designed for a comprehensive vacation experience. These include:
- Varied Campsite Options: The Back Forty Campground & RV Park offers 58 sites, including full hook-up (water, electric, sewer), water and electric, and primitive (no hookups) options, accommodating tents and RVs up to 60 feet in length.
- Modern Bathhouse: Clean and well-maintained restroom and shower facilities are available for campers.
- Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry facilities provide convenience for extended stays.
- Dump Station: A dedicated dump station is available for RV waste.
- Camp Store: A camp store or general store on-site provides essential camping supplies, snacks, beverages, and other conveniences.
- Restaurants and Snack Bars: Access to multiple on-site dining options, including the Curly Horse American Bistro and Rustlers Roost Restaurant & Bar.
- Shuttle Service: Complimentary shuttle service connects the Back Forty area to other parts of the Double JJ Resort, including the Gold Rush Indoor Waterpark and main resort areas.
- Pet-Friendly: The campground and RV park are pet-friendly, allowing furry companions to join the adventure.
- Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase to enjoy campfires at designated fire rings.
Back Forty Ranch and its connection to Double JJ Resort offer a wealth of exciting features and highlights:
- Gold Rush Indoor Waterpark: A major draw, featuring thrilling waterslides (like the 150-foot waterslide mentioned in reviews), a lazy river, a zero-depth entry pool, and an activity pool, providing hours of family fun regardless of weather.
- Horseback Riding: The resort offers guided horseback trail rides through beautiful rolling countryside, suitable for ages 5 and up with no experience required. This is a highly praised activity.
- Family Cabins & Lodging: Beyond RV and tent sites, the Back Forty area includes charming family cabins and other lodging options, offering comfortable stays with amenities like lofts for kids and shared fire pits to foster community.
- Outdoor Activities: Includes horseshoes, tennis, basketball, volleyball, tetherball, and a playground, ensuring active fun for all ages.
- Scottish Links Golf Course: A unique 18-hole golf course within the resort, appealing to golf enthusiasts.
- Old Western Town: The Back Forty is designed with an "Old West" theme, creating a unique and immersive atmosphere with a dance hall and ice cream shop.
- Recreational Pools: Beyond the main waterpark, there are pool areas designed for different activities, such as volleyball and basketball, plus a dedicated small kids' area.
- "Water Ride" Thrill: A unique inner tube water ride that takes riders through a barn, providing a quick and exciting thrill.
- Friendly and Helpful Staff: Consistently praised for their professionalism and willingness to accommodate guest needs, enhancing the overall experience.
- Proximity to Lake Michigan: While not on the immediate lake, the resort is minutes away from the beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline, offering opportunities for beach visits and exploration.
As part of the Double JJ Resort, Back Forty Ranch frequently offers various promotions and packages to enhance your stay. These can include seasonal lodging specials, such as discounted rates on cabins or hotel rooms during off-peak times. They often have packages that combine accommodations with access to the Gold Rush Indoor Waterpark, horseback riding, or golf. For example, past promotions have included "Spring Lodging Specials" and packages that include access to resort-wide activities. It is highly recommended that interested Michigan residents visit the official Double JJ Resort website or contact their guest services directly to inquire about current promotions, package deals, and any available discounts for camping or lodging at Back Forty Ranch. Booking in advance, especially for popular seasons or holidays, is advisable to secure your preferred dates and take advantage of any special offers.
Address: 3180 W Wilke Rd, Rothbury, MI 49452, USA (This address is commonly associated with Back Forty Ranch/Double JJ Resort's location)
Guest Services Phone: (231) 894-4444
Toll-Free Phone: (800) 368-2535
(Note: While the provided address is "3180 W Wilke Rd," the Double JJ Resort's main contact address is often listed as 5900 Water Rd, Rothbury, MI 49452. Both are in close proximity within the resort complex. It's best to use the provided phone numbers for direct inquiries.)
Back Forty Ranch, as part of the Double JJ Resort, is an outstanding choice for Michigan locals seeking a comprehensive and action-packed family vacation. Its proximity to various population centers in Michigan makes it an easily accessible destination for weekend getaways or longer holidays, eliminating the need for extensive travel. The resort's unique blend of a rustic Old West ambiance with modern amenities like a thrilling indoor water park means there's never a dull moment, catering to diverse interests and age groups.
For families, the abundance of activities—from horseback riding and swimming to organized games and shared fire pits—creates countless opportunities for bonding and making lasting memories. The praise for the professional and helpful staff further solidifies its appeal, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Whether you're an RV enthusiast, prefer the comfort of a cabin, or simply want a destination where every family member can find something to love, Back Forty Ranch in Rothbury offers a dynamic and truly suitable option for a memorable Michigan adventure.
Customer Reviews
Had a great time on a one hour trial ride! The staff wranglers were all very professional and helpful. Looking forward to bringing my Family back for a ride.
July 2021 - my family had a blast here in the back 40 ranch. The pool area back here has a small kid area. Another pool to play volleyball and basketball. Behind that is this water ride where you sit on an inner tube. Takes maybe 9 seconds to fly down it, through a barn and out you go. My 3 kids did it maybe 20 times in a row. Hardly a wait and that was their favorite part of our week vacation. By the cabins there is a spot to do a shared fire. We got to know 2 other families, and that was awesome. If we had our own, we would have never talked to anyone. The only knock I had was in the cabin, the stairs need a light or something. Its pitch black and if you have to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night, good luck not falling. We left one light on all night. However, my children loved sleeping in that loft. When you check in at the main area with the water park. You leave their and go to the main road. Turn left and maybe 1/2 mile on the left is the back 40. You will see a big sign. Nice people, and we are thinking of doing it again next year. Next year I am bringing my basketball, S'mores kit, and some outdoor games the kids can play.
I really enjoyed the area. Not only are there trail rides, but also the ice cream is amazing. There are also quite a few fun kids attractions, like the park and pool! We really had a fun time there.
This place is good for dogs! Friendly people, relaxing place and safe! But the water smells like rotten egg. I stayed for 3 nights
We went on a special event weekend and it was really loud. Not from the kids but the adults playing music and doing shots. Mechanical decorations made noise all night and some type of heater or generator kept going on and off all weekend. Didn't get much sleep. Wood is expensive compared to other campgrounds. Breakfast was OK but they were really understaffed. The water park got shut down but whatever the issue was, they fixed it fairly quickly. A good scrub down at the water park would help. Community bars of soap in the locker rooms is a gross idea. I would go back but it isn't my first choice.
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