Pioneer Trails
A Place to Grow and Play
Community involvement, healthy lifestyles, and recreation are promoted by Pioneer Resources in several ways, including our beautiful camp on Big Blue Lake! An exciting diversity of activities and camp programs happen at Pioneer Trails.
Located in northern Muskegon County, Pioneer Trails borders Big Blue Lake on the edge of the Manistee National Forest. The camp is rustic, yet has been uniquely designed to be barrier-free and offers a wonderful environment for fun and growth. Paved trails and gentle slopes make the woods, waterfront, and buildings accessible for people of all abilities.
Host Site for Many Camps
Pioneer Trails is the host site for many camp programs serving various populations. Most of our own program participants and residents have the opportunity to experience camp each summer. This is a wonderful way to get outside and enjoy fun activities with friends!
For information on LARC camp, senior day camp, or other program-specific camps not listed below, please contact your program’s manager or call us today to get connected.
Pioneer Trails also hosts outside organizations including Camp Bold Eagle and Camp Courage (see below). Other happy campers include sports camps, band camps, weddings, and reunions! Dates book up quickly, call us today for more information.
Pioneer Trails Activities
Adventure, creativity, and friendships start here!
Activities
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Team building
- Archery
- Canoeing
- … And more
Available by Special Request
- Use of a challenge course
- Canoeing on the White River
- Horseback riding
How the Program Works
Pioneer Trails provides campers with outdoor recreation and all the traditional camp experiences while they develop friendships and create life-long memories.
Ignite Your PATH to Employment
Ignite your PATH to Employment is an 4-day program offering students ages 16-26 the opportunity to learn the various skills necessary to be successful in the workplace. This experience will focus on Work Readiness and Self-Advocacy Skills to launch their journey towards finding, and maintaining, employment. Students can participate in fun camp activities like swimming, pontoon boat rides, nightly camp fires, crafts, new friendships, and a surprise event the final night of camp! Following the week at Pioneer Trails, students get the opportunity to put their week-one learning into action by participating in paid summer work experiences for 6 weeks at various locations in our community.
What is Ignite your PATH to Employment?
Ignite your PATH to Employment is an 4-day summer program offering students ages 16-26 the opportunity to learn the skills necessary to be successful in the workplace. For more information, call us at 231.773.5355 or email [email protected]
Camp Bold Eagle
Pioneer Trails is the host site for Camp Bold Eagle, a program of the Hemophilia Foundation of Michigan (HFM). Founded in 1969, Camp Bold Eagle is the oldest camp of its kind in the country serving children with hereditary bleeding disorders. Visit the Camp Bold Eagle page of HFM for information including camp dates and how to apply.
Camp Courage
For many years, Pioneer Trails has been the host site for this Harbor Hospice program. Any child who has experienced the death of a loved one can apply for Camp Courage. Planned activities help the children recall and preserve memories in a safe and secure environment. Visit the Camp Courage website for more information.
Location
Pioneer Trails is approximately 17 miles from the city of Muskegon and 13 miles from Fremont. The address is
1421 E. Fruitvale Rd
Holton, MI 49425
Frequently asked questions
Who can attend Pioneer Trails?
Pioneer Trails is the host site for many sports camps, band camps, corporate retreats, reunions, and specialized groups – as well as our own programs. Depending on funding and demand, we also offer summer Day Camp to kids and teens of all abilities.
Is Pioneer Trails accessible?
Yes, our trails and cabins are accessible as well as our newly renovated restrooms.
What all does Pioneer Trails offer?
Campers and staff can enjoy waterfront activities (swimming, boating, fishing, pontoon rides), campfires, games / sports fields, archery, and more! Ropes course and horseback riding upon request. Bunk cabins accommodate overnight stays and a lodge serves as an indoor meeting space as needed.
I have a group that I’d like to bring to camp, how can I find out availability?
Please call our camp director at [email protected] to find out more!
Information on Pioneer Trails
Call us today for more information at 231.773.5355 or email [email protected]
Print Materials / Rack Cards:
Past Pioneer Trails Supporters
A special thank you to those who have generously supported Pioneer Trails in the past:
- Muskegon Chapter Ambucs
- Community Foundation for Muskegon County
- MQB
- Hot Rod Harley Davidson
- WEBB Chemical
- New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church
- Living Life Church
- Fremont Area Community Foundation
- Muskegon Area Intermediate School District
- The William Munroe Fund
- The Richard and Dora Hain Fund
- The Otta and Alma Seyferth Trust
- The Freeman Foundation
- Herman Miller
- Rebecca Llewellyn Family
- Gerber Foundation
- Mary Payne Fund
- Women’s Division Chamber of Commerce
Your Support
Your contributions make a difference! Pioneer Trails is a division of Pioneer Resources, a tax-exempt charitable organization. View our Give Page to learn how you can invest in our efforts to bring an outdoor experience to people of all abilities.
Our Related Programs
Residential Services
Pioneer Resources believes everyone deserves a sense of home and a place in the community. We offer a range of living options, from specialized group homes and supported independent living to income-based housing. So every individual can find the setting that fits their needs, goals, and sense of self.
Community Living Support
Our Group Community Living Supports program is a welcoming space for individuals to learn, grow, and socialize while building the confidence and skills needed for greater inclusion in everyday community life. Participants develop knowledge through a combination of real-world experience and structured learning, with an increasing ability to access and enjoy public settings independently.
Vocational Services
Pioneer Resources believes every person has the potential for employment. We provide a clear path to work and greater independence — collaborating closely with participants, families, natural supports, and employers to develop successful outcomes, from first job exploration all the way through ongoing career development.
Autism Services
Our Autism Program offers evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy delivered by trained professionals and tailored to each individual’s unique needs. We support individuals and families at every stage, helping build meaningful skills, improve daily functioning, and navigate community life with greater confidence.
Transportation
Pioneer Resources offers accessible transportation for individuals with mobility impairments, developmental disabilities, and others facing transportation barriers across the western Michigan lakeshore. We connect people to the programs, appointments, jobs, and community activities that matter most to them.
LARC and Seniors
There’s something for everyone in our recreation programs! LARC provides adults with engaging activities, social opportunities, and community experiences, while our senior programs offer welcoming spaces to stay active, connected, and inspired. It’s all about building friendships, exploring interests, and enjoying life together.
Pioneer Trails & Day Camp
Adventure awaits! Pioneer Trails welcomes our own programs for recreation and connection opportunities, as well as serving as a host site for various school camps, corporate retreats, family reunions, and more. Pioneer Trails is where summer memories are made.