Cade Lake County Park & Campground

For Michiganders, the call of the outdoors is a familiar tune. From the serene beauty of our numerous lakes to the expansive forests, our state offers countless opportunities for recreation and relaxation. When it comes to finding that perfect spot to pitch a tent, park an RV, or rent a cozy cabin for a getaway, the options can seem endless. However, if you're looking for a destination that combines natural beauty with a host of activities and comfortable amenities, Cade Lake County Park & Campground in Sturgis is a place you'll want to consider.

Operated by the St. Joseph County Parks & Recreation Department, Cade Lake County Park & Campground strives to provide outstanding recreational experiences in a beautiful natural setting. It’s a place where families can connect with nature, enjoy a variety of activities, and create lasting memories. While every experience is unique, this campground offers a compelling blend of features that appeal to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts across Michigan.

This article will delve into what makes Cade Lake County Park & Campground a noteworthy destination. We’ll explore its convenient location, the services it offers, its standout features, and why it's a suitable choice for locals looking for their next Michigan adventure.

Situated at 68911 Plumb School Rd, Sturgis, MI 49091, USA, Cade Lake County Park & Campground offers a convenient and accessible escape for residents throughout Michigan. Sturgis, a welcoming city in St. Joseph County, provides a pleasant backdrop for the park, offering local conveniences while maintaining a charming, rural Michigan feel.

The park is strategically located approximately two miles east of the City of Sturgis, just south of US Highway 12 on Plumb School Road. This makes it easily reachable for those traveling from various parts of Michigan, whether you're coming from the larger metropolitan areas or closer communities in Southwest Michigan. The well-maintained roads ensure a smooth journey for RVs of all sizes, campers pulling trailers, or families simply driving their cars to enjoy a day trip or cabin stay.

Being close to Sturgis means campers have quick access to essential services should they need them, including grocery stores, gas stations, and other local businesses. This blend of natural tranquility within a short drive of town amenities makes Cade Lake County Park & Campground a practical and appealing choice for Michiganders seeking both convenience and an authentic outdoor experience without venturing too far off the beaten path.

Cade Lake County Park & Campground is designed to provide a comprehensive and comfortable camping experience, catering to various preferences from rustic tent camping to full RV hookups and cabin rentals. The St. Joseph County Parks & Recreation Department ensures a range of services aimed at enhancing your stay:

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground features 55 campsites, including 43 full hookup sites (electric, water, and sewer), 9 rustic sites (no hookups), and 3 rental cabins (2 deluxe, 1 rustic). This variety ensures there's a spot for every type of camper.
• Modern Restrooms and Showers: Clean and well-maintained modern restrooms with hot showers are available, providing comfort and convenience, especially for tent campers or those in rustic sites.
• Dump Station: For RV campers, a convenient dump station is on-site for waste disposal.
• Reservations: Campers can make reservations for campsites and cabins by contacting the Cade Lake Office from May to October or the St. Joseph County Parks Department office from October to April.
• Boat/Kayak/Canoe Rentals: For those looking to explore Cade Lake, row boats, canoes, and kayaks are available for rent to campsite renters, making it easy to get out on the water.
• Firewood Availability: While campers can bring their own firewood, wood is also available for sale at the campground, ensuring you can enjoy a quintessential campfire experience.
• Fish Cleaning Station: For the avid anglers, a dedicated fish cleaning station is provided, making it convenient to prepare your catch.
• Accessible Facilities: St. Joseph County Parks & Recreation Department strives to accommodate special needs, encouraging visitors to contact them in advance for special accommodations.

Cade Lake County Park & Campground offers a wealth of features and amenities that make it a standout destination for outdoor recreation in Michigan. These highlights cater to a wide array of interests, ensuring there's something for everyone:

• Private 32-Acre Cade Lake: The park boasts direct access to a private 32-acre lake, offering a peaceful setting for various water activities. This private lake ensures a less crowded experience compared to public access lakes.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Reviews consistently highlight the abundance of fishing opportunities. Whether fishing from the piers or taking a boat out onto the water, anglers will find a rewarding experience.
• Deadwood Disc Golf Course: The park is home to the 18-hole Deadwood Disc Golf Course, a challenging, wooded course with elevation changes. This is a significant draw for disc golf enthusiasts, with short and long tees available. County residents can play for free, while non-county residents require a daily car pass.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: A small playground for younger kids, a swimming beach, and a volleyball court ensure there are plenty of options for family fun and recreation.
• Hiking Trails/Walking Paths: For those who enjoy exploring on foot, the park features hiking trails and walking paths through its 98 acres, 53 of which are wooded, offering a chance to connect with nature.
• Indoor Game Room/Camp Store: An indoor game room provides an alternative activity, especially on rainy days, and a camp store is available for convenience.
• Picnic Facilities: Barbecue grills, picnic tables at each site, and a picnic pavilion are available, making outdoor meals and gatherings enjoyable.
• Newly Renovated Campground: The campground has undergone renovations, ensuring a modern and improved experience for visitors.

Cade Lake County Park & Campground primarily operates on a rate structure for its various campsites and cabins, rather than consistently advertised "special offers" in the traditional promotional sense. However, understanding their pricing and seasonal options can help Michiganders plan their trips effectively. Here's what you should know about their rates and potential ways to optimize your visit:

• Daily and Seasonal Rates:
  • Full Hookup Sites (electric, water & sewer): $40 per night. A seasonal rate of $2,300 plus monthly electric usage is also available for long-term stays.
  • Rustic Sites (NO electric, water, or sewer): $30 per night.
  • Cabins: Rustic cabins are $75 per night, plus a $150 refundable security/damage deposit. Updated cabins are $100 per night, plus a $150 refundable security/damage deposit.
• County Resident Benefits: As a county park, St. Joseph County residents may enjoy certain benefits. For instance, the Deadwood Disc Golf Course is free for county residents, while non-county residents require a $4 daily car pass. It's always a good idea to inquire if any other county-specific advantages apply.
• Park Patron Donations: While not a discount, the St. Joseph County Parks & Recreation Department encourages "Park Patrons" to make a donation of just $35 for continued park development and maintenance. While this is a donation, it supports the ongoing quality of the park you enjoy.
• Off-Season Considerations: While the main camping season typically runs from May to October, contacting the St. Joseph County Parks Department (using the phone number provided for October-April inquiries) might reveal specific opportunities or rates for off-peak visits or day-use access to the park's other amenities.

To get the most current information on rates, availability, and any potential group rates or seasonal specials, it is always best to contact Cade Lake County Park & Campground directly.

For Michiganders looking to plan their next camping trip or outdoor adventure at Cade Lake County Park & Campground, reaching out directly is the best way to get the most accurate and up-to-date information. The park staff are ready to assist with reservations, inquiries about amenities, or any other questions you might have.

You can contact Cade Lake County Park & Campground using the following details:

• Address: 68911 Plumb School Rd, Sturgis, MI 49091, USA
• Phone (May - October): (269) 651-3330
• Phone (October - April - St. Joseph County Parks Department office): (269) 467-5519
• Mobile Phone (also available): +1 269-651-3330

It is recommended to call during office hours for the quickest and most comprehensive assistance with your reservation or inquiry. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a seasonal stay, the team can help ensure your visit to Cade Lake County Park is enjoyable and hassle-free.

For residents across Michigan, Cade Lake County Park & Campground in Sturgis offers a highly suitable and appealing destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Its blend of natural beauty, diverse activities, and convenient accessibility makes it an excellent choice for a variety of local adventurers, despite some varied past customer experiences.

Firstly, the park's diverse range of camping options—from full hookup RV sites to rustic tent sites and comfortable cabins—caters to every preference and budget. This flexibility means that whether you're a seasoned RVer, a family new to camping, or someone seeking a cozy cabin escape, Cade Lake has a spot for you. The newly renovated campground enhances the overall comfort and appeal, ensuring a modern experience for all visitors.

Secondly, the wealth of on-site activities and natural features is a major draw. The private Cade Lake provides excellent fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities, allowing Michiganders to truly embrace the state's beloved water culture. The challenging Deadwood Disc Golf Course offers a unique recreational outlet for enthusiasts, and the playground, hiking trails, and indoor game room ensure that families with children will find plenty to keep them entertained. The review mentioning "lots of fishing opportunities and disk golf trails" and "a small playground for younger kids" highlights its family-friendly nature, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Finally, while isolated incidents of customer service can occur in any establishment, the overall offerings and the peaceful environment noted by many ("quiet and peaceful" during a Mother's Day weekend stay) underscore its potential as a tranquil Michigan getaway. For locals, Cade Lake County Park & Campground provides an accessible and activity-rich escape, inviting you to enjoy the best of Michigan's outdoor recreation without having to travel too far from home. It's a true community asset for St. Joseph County and beyond.