Newaygo County is a premier destination for side-by-side (SXS) enthusiasts, offering a massive network of scenic forest roads and dedicated trail access. Whether you are a seasoned rider or just starting out, the variety of terrain here makes it the perfect place to get off the pavement and into the woods.

1. Where to Ride

Newaygo County is incredibly “ORV and SXS friendly,” meaning most county roads and U.S. Forest Service roads are open to traffic.

• The M-20 to Big O Trail: This is the primary designated ORV trail in the county. It offers a well-maintained loop through diverse wooded terrain that is a favorite for riders of all skill levels.
• County & Forest Roads: You can generally ride on the far right of the maintained portion of most county roads unless otherwise posted. There are also hundreds of miles of 2-track seasonal roads that make you feel like you are way off the beaten path!
• Know the Limits: It is illegal to operate a non-plated SXS on any “M” road (state highways like M-37, M-82, M-120, or M-20). These roads are strictly off-limits unless your vehicle has been modified and registered with a permanent license plate for highway use.
• Need some route ideas? Check out our favorite routes!

2. Planning Your Navigation

Don’t rely on cell service in the deep woods! It is essential to have a plan before you turn the key.

• Digital Tools: For solo explorers, we recommend the Polaris Ride Command or onX Offroad apps for real-time trail tracking and offline maps.
• DNR Maps: Always check the Michigan DNR Interactive ORV Map to ensure you are riding on legal state land.
• Food Stops: Mapping your ride around some of the best food and watering holes is highly recommended. A few of our favorites are Schindy’s at Diamond Lake, Woody’s Bar and Grill, and Chase Creek Smokehouse.
• Group Rides: One of the best ways to explore is to join a group ride hosted by Dragon Adventures Base Camp. Jump in a group ride and take the guesswork out of navigation, food, and gas destinations! It’s the perfect way to see the best spots without worrying about the map.

3. Essential Rules & Safety

• Safety in Numbers: Try and ride with at least one other machine. If you can’t, make sure someone knows the exact route you plan to ride.
• Permit Requirement: You must have a Michigan ORV license and trail permit to ride on state trails and forest roads.
• Plan for On-Trail Issues: Make sure someone in your group has a chainsaw. It is very common to encounter new deadfalls on the trail that you simply can’t go around.
• First Aid: It would also be wise to have someone in the crew carry a basic first aid kit for any scrapes or cuts that might happen while moving downed branches or clearing the trail.
• Safety Gear: Helmets and eye protection are required unless your vehicle has a roof and roll bar that meet specific crash standards and all passengers are wearing seatbelts.

4. Your SXS Hub: Dragon Adventures Base Camp

If you don’t have your own rig or just need a home base for your trip, Amy and I (Mark Deering) have built the ultimate setup for you.

We have access to SXS rentals (2 and 4-seaters) so you can experience the thrill without the overhead of owning a machine. You can stay in our cabins or campsites and head right out for your adventure. After a long day on the trails, come join us in our beer garden at Dragon Adventures Base Camp to swap stories and relax with fellow riders.

Cheers!

Mark and Amy Deering
Call or Text: 231-888-7433