Historic summer camp could become Saugatuck Township’s first public waterfront park

Update: In a special meeting on Aug. 28, the Saugatuck Township Board unanimously voted to remove the $3.6 million bond proposal from the Nov. 5, 2024, ballot to acquire the former Pine Trail Camp property. Township manager Daniel DeFranco says the board is committed to exploring options with stakeholders for acquiring the land for future park development and public river access.

For decades, Pine Trail Camp echoed with the laughter of children enjoying their summer break. Now, the once-bustling campsite, which has been closed since 2021, might soon be repurposed as Saugatuck Township's first public waterfront park.

The Township Board of Trustees is eyeing the 20-acre property, situated along the Kalamazoo River, as a prime location for community recreation and nature preservation.

CourtesyProperty owners would see an annual tax increase of up to 0.7784 mills, translating to about $78 per $100,000 of a property’s taxable value.

In a bid to secure the site, the board has decided to place a $3.6 million bond proposal on the Nov. 5 general election ballot. If approved by voters, the funds will be used to purchase the property, which includes 350 feet of waterfront access. Saugatuck Township Manager Daniel DeFranco calls this a significant opportunity for the community.

CourtesyIf the $3.6 million bond is approved by voters, the funds will be used to purchase the Pine Trail property, which includes 350 feet of waterfront access.

“Securing this site would provide our community with public waterfront access, which we are currently lacking,” he says. “Neither Saugatuck city, Douglas, nor the township has public water access to launch a kayak or canoe in the historic river mouth area of the Kalamazoo. Acquiring the property would, for the first time, give the public an opportunity to launch a non-motorized boat and access areas of the river such as the Ox-Bow Lagoon and the popular cove.”
CourtesySaugatuck Township has a $3.6 million bond on the November ballot for the purchase of the historic Pine Trail Camp property.


The bond proposal seeks to raise the $3.6 million over 11 years. Property owners would see an annual tax increase of up to 0.7784 mills, translating to about $78 per $100,000 of a property’s taxable value.

While the plans for the park are still being finalized, the township is inviting residents to share their ideas and feedback at an open house on Wednesday, Aug. 28, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Saugatuck Township Hall.