Enhancing Access, Ecology, and Experience

In 2024, Ottawa County Parks began a transformative effort at Ottawa Sands, focusing on improving public access and restoring vital natural habitats. These initiatives are part of an $8 million investment to implement the Ottawa Sands Master Plan—ensuring the park remains a cherished, inclusive, and ecologically vibrant destination for generations to come.

A Vision for Balance and Sustainability

The Ottawa Sands Master Plan was carefully developed to preserve the site’s serene beauty while restoring ecological function and expanding access for all visitors. The completed work reflects a thoughtful balance of recreation and conservation:

• 238 acres of the park receiving restoration and enhancements

• 69% of the entire site involved in ecological improvement

• 26 acres (8%) undergoing active ecological restoration

• Only 8% of the site designated for recreation-focused improvements

• Integration of high-performance green infrastructure to support long-term ecological health

Project Highlights

Improving Accessibility

To make Ottawa Sands more welcoming to visitors of all ages and abilities, Ottawa County Parks secured support from both the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund and the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Two major projects were completed in late 2024:

• New ADA-compliant parking area with modern restrooms

• A paved 1.6-mile “Lake Loop” trail offering a fully accessible route around the lake

• Accessible benches placed at scenic viewpoints

  

  Aerial shot of 1.6-mile lake loop trail. Photo taken by GEI Consultants

Ecological Enhancement Efforts

Though visually striking, much of Ottawa Sands had been significantly disturbed by past sand mining operations. In total, 188 acres—including the manmade lake—required ecological attention. Restoration efforts were completed in partnership with Audubon Great Lakes, Michigan DNR, and with funding from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and MDNR Fisheries Habitat Grant Program.

The completed ecological improvements include:

• Conversion of a 6-acre former mining lagoon into a thriving interdunal wetland

• Restoration of 3,300 feet of lake shoreline to enhance wildlife habitat and stabilize erosion

  

  Aerial shot of six acres of interdunal wetland creation. Photo taken by GEI Consultants.

Idema Explorers Camp

Thanks to a generous $3.48 million donation from the Bill and Bea Idema Foundation, the Idema Explorers Camp is now open and offering unique overnight accommodations along the Grand River. The camp provides a new way for visitors to stay immersed in nature.

Camp Features: 

• Three treehouses, five yurts, and ten tent sites for overnight stays

• A central Welcome Center for visitors

• A universally accessible pathway around the camp with views of the Grand River

• A restroom facility featuring sustainable design elements

Awards

• 2025 Park Design Award
  Michigan Recreation and Park Association (mParks)
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• 2025 Award for Conservation
  National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials (NACPRO)
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• 2025 Savvy Award
  City-County Communications and Marketing Association (3CMA)
  Ottawa Sands Project Documentary