My Favorite Michigan Campground
Best Bear Lodge: Hunting Haven.
From deer scouting to cozy cabins – the unexpected joy of Best Bear Lodge in Irons, Michigan. Their sign along 10-1/2 mile road changed my camping game forever. Let me take you on a journey where nature meets the heart and soul of Matt and Carrie Bearup. Writing about my favorite Michigan campground excites me to one of the highest levels possible.
A Michigan Campground Steeped in History
Best Bear Lodge and Campground (BBL&C), located in Irons, Michigan, has been my go-to spot for many years. I can’t put an exact date on the year I started camping there, but their website indicates they were established in August 2013. I can honestly say that if you have camped there since the inception, you would have to agree that Matt and Carrie Bearup have put their hearts and souls into every inch of their business.
Warm Smiles and Genuine Enthusiasm
I came across BBL&C as I was doing some scouting in the local area for deer hunting. Years prior to this, my father had taken me hunting in the surrounding areas, and at the time, we had family relatives who had cabins not too far from Best Bear. As the dynamics of our family changed over the years having some family members who passed away, the options for places to say became less and less. This is when I discovered Best Bear.
A Welcoming Atmosphere
I saw their sign along 10-1/2 mile road in Irons, so I thought, heck, let’s check this place out. I drove to the Michigan campground located on North Merriville Road and pulled in for a look around. At the time, the size and layout were smaller than the current configuration as it stands today. I stopped at the small cabin, which is now the main check-in location. I met Carrie Bearup for the first time. The smile and enthusiasm she displayed were genuine and welcoming.
We started to talk briefly before her husband Matt walked up and introduced himself with the same energy. These people were awesome from the get-go! Together they gave me the rundown of the campground, which included cabins, travel trailers, and pull-through RV spots with full hookups. The cabins and RV trailers were of interest to me as I personally did not own one, and I had options to choose from.
Detail, Detail, Detail: A 5-Star Operation
When places say they have everything you need, this is an understatement! Detail, detail, detail. Matt and Carrie have a 5-star operation, and their efforts speak volumes if you speak with any campers you talk to at the campground. Over the years, they have made fantastic improvements and to this day they just keep the improvements coming.
A Continuously Evolving Paradise
Over the years, I have personally witnessed growth and expansion of new cabins and RV rentals. Property improvements compliments of Matt and his new tractor. A fully stocked souvenir store with some awesome Best Bear Gear. A flourishing supply of campfire wood available for purchase. Weekly events such as Karaoke and cookouts at the center of the campground.
Recently they expanded to offer ATV rentals for trail riding on the local trail systems. One of my favorite ORV trails is called the Tin Cup. In 2023 came the brand new Rhinestone Event Center which hosts several bands along with other holiday celebrations that have meals offered along with the entertainment.
The Heart and Soul
At this point, I have to mention that as you are drawing a mental picture of the operations of Best Bear Lodge, you have to keep in mind that Matt and Carrie are the heart and soul of everything going on. They deserve the credit for this. I must also shout out to their staff and most importantly the man I refer to as Papa Bear. This would be Matt’s dad! If you pay close attention when you are at Best Best keep your eyes peeled to see this man in action! He can do it all.
Refreshing Nights
From my own experiences, I enjoy the great nights of sleeping at Best Bear. I always leave refreshed. And now I bring my three sons who enjoy hunting along with me. We have chosen this place as our home away from home for vacations. This establishment goes hand in hand with my passion for deer and youth hunting. The memories my boys and I are making here will be kept close to my heart. There are so many experiences I could keep writing about when it comes to Best Bear, but I would need several more chapters to do so.
Michigan Campground Memories
I think of Matt and Carrie regularly and the unforgettable hunting memories my boys and I have. This awesome Michigan Campground never leaves my mind. I may send them a text over the holidays just to say hello. I also like to take day trips for deer scouting and usually end up at Best Bear Lodge to see campground improvements. My level of excitement never changes when I can talk to the kind-hearted owners.
Best Bear Lodge’s Abundant Offerings
There is so much that awaits you when you go to Best Bear Lodge. Explore the opportunities they have to offer and I would guarantee you’ll be planning your next trip there soon.
