Nestled just downstream of Croton Dam in Newaygo County, Michigan, Muskegon River Besemer Park is a prime spot for anglers and nature lovers alike. Located along Croton Drive, about six miles east of the M-37 and M-82 intersection in Newaygo, this public access point on the Muskegon River offers a mix of excellent fishing, scenic beauty, and accessible amenities. Whether you’re chasing steelhead, brown trout, or Chinook salmon, or simply soaking in the tranquility of this Central Lake Michigan watershed, Besemer Park delivers a quintessential Michigan outdoor experience.
Fishing the Muskegon River: A Year-Round Adventure
The Muskegon River below Croton Dam is a angler’s paradise, designated as a Type 3 trout stream by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This classification, detailed in the current Michigan Fishing Guide, signals quality habitat for trout and salmon, with specific regulations to ensure sustainable fishing. Steelhead run from late October through June, drawing anglers for their acrobatic fights, while Chinook salmon surge upstream from Lake Michigan in September and October. Brown trout and rainbow trout—stocked by the DNR—are available year-round, making this stretch a consistent hotspot. According to the Michigan DNR, the river here benefits from Lake Michigan spawning runs and regular stocking efforts, ensuring a healthy fishery.
Fishing options abound: cast from a boat launched at the steep, paved ramp on the west side of Croton Drive, or wade in from the shoreline on either side of the bridge. The North Country Trail, a 4,800-mile national scenic trail, extends roughly three-quarters of a mile downstream from the boat ramp, offering public shore fishing access through serene, wooded terrain. For those with mobility needs, a barrier-free path descends from the west-side parking lot to a fishing platform just below Croton Dam, complemented by a pier on the south side of the river, a short drive south of the bridge. These features make Besemer Park welcoming to all anglers.
Beyond the Rod: Exploring the Area
The Muskegon River, stretching 219 miles from Houghton Lake to Lake Michigan, is one of Michigan’s premier waterways, and Besemer Park sits at a scenic crux below the 1924-built Croton Dam. This hydroelectric dam, operated by Consumers Energy, creates a tailwater fishery with cool, oxygen-rich flows ideal for trout and salmon. The surrounding landscape—part of Newaygo County’s 48% public land, as noted by Newaygo County Exploring—features hardwood forests and rolling hills, perfect for a quiet escape. The walkway under the Croton Drive bridge connects both sides of the river, inviting exploration on foot.
Wildlife thrives here too. Beyond the fish, you might spot bald eagles, herons, or deer along the riverbanks, especially in the early morning or late evening. The dam’s tailrace stirs up aquatic insects, attracting birds and adding to the ecosystem’s vibrancy. Whether you’re fishing or just unwinding, the sound of rushing water and the sight of the river carving through the countryside make this spot special.
Plan Your Trip
Getting to Muskegon River Besemer Park is straightforward: from the M-37 and M-82 junction in Newaygo, head east on Croton Drive for six miles until you reach the bridge just below Croton Dam (coordinates: 43.43555277, -85.66677468). The boat launch and parking are on the west side, with additional trailer parking across the road. An access road downstream of the bridge on the northwest side and Swan Road upstream on the northeast side provide further entry points. This public site, maintained by local authorities, requires no admission fee, though a Michigan Recreation Passport may be needed for parking, per state park rules.
Fishing regulations are key—check the Michigan DNR’s Inland Trout and Salmon Stream Regulations for limits and seasons. The boat ramp’s steep incline calls for careful navigation, especially with larger trailers, but ample parking on both sides of Croton Drive keeps things convenient. For more local insights, visit newaygocountyexploring.com. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a family seeking a riverside day out, Besemer Park is a Central Michigan gem worth discovering.
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